Petula Jonkers-Schouw joined Mekes on 1 November 1990. More than three decades later, she is still enjoying the variety that comes with working in a family business, where no two days are ever the same.
Outside of work, Petula enjoys staying active. Whether it’s a BodyPump class at the gym, a long bike ride with her husband or meeting friends for lunch, she likes to make the most of her free time. She also appreciates the simple things in life, such as spending time with her family and coming home to a tidy house.
Growing together with Mekes
Petula joined Mekes on 1 November 1990 after working at a bank. Although she enjoyed her previous job, she was looking for a more varied role. When she came across the vacancy at Mekes, she immediately knew she wanted to apply.
From the very beginning, the company felt different. As a family business, Mekes offered a personal atmosphere where everyone knew each other and worked closely together.
“In those early years, I would sometimes even look after Ronald and Edith’s young children while they attended meetings. That really shows the trust and family spirit that has always been part of Mekes.”
Even after taking a short break following the birth of her children, Petula remained connected to the company. Mekes invited her to return and gave her the flexibility to gradually increase her working hours while raising her family.
A role with endless variety
Although her official job title is Sales Assistant, Petula’s role covers much more than that. She supports colleagues across the business, from preparing quotations and updating the website to arranging travel, creating projects and assisting with customer communication.
“I always say I do everything except bookkeeping and the technical work,” she says with a smile.
That variety is exactly what she enjoys most.
“One moment I’m arranging flights for colleagues, the next I’m preparing contracts for a machine sale that has just come in. No two days are ever the same, and that’s what keeps the job interesting.”
Proud to be part of the journey
Rather than pointing to one specific achievement, Petula is most proud of growing alongside Mekes over the past three decades.
She has seen the company expand, while the family culture has remained unchanged.
“What I value most is that we’ve grown together without losing the personal atmosphere. Everyone is willing to help each other, and that’s something that has always made Mekes a special place to work.”
After more than 35 years, that combination of flexibility, teamwork and variety is still what makes Petula enjoy coming to work every day.