In conversation with: Maayke van Houdt, People Director HEINEKEN Group
10 November 2024Every quarter we discuss pensions. Inspiring conversations that we hope will motivate you to take a look at your pension. This time we talk to Maayke van Houdt, People Director HEINEKEN Group. 1. What does ‘pension’ mean to you? As a People Director, terms of employment are an important part of my job; this is crucial in attracting, retaining and motivating colleagues. In addition, it is important that conditions are explainable, attractive and fair. Pensions are one of the most valuable terms of employment, but receive relatively little attention from employees. That’s not surprising; in the Netherlands we have a complex pension system, which makes it difficult to gain insight and keep an overview. A frequently heard comment is that retirement feels ‘far from your bed’: you often still have (dozens) of years ahead of you before you start benefiting from your pension. It’s up to us to offer understandable communication, so that we get as many colleagues as possible interested. Because it is good to think on time about how you envision your life later and what you need (financially) for that. The information from our pension fund will help you on your way and you can always email or call the pension fund. 2. What would you like to say about your pension at HEINEKEN? HEINEKEN was one of the first employers in the Netherlands to arrange a pension for its employees. Even then, HEINEKEN was a social employer that took good care of its employees. I now also see this care and attention in the preparation for the pension transition. In this process, too, HEINEKEN shows that we are a good and reliable employer that represents the interests of all parties involved: those who now work at HEINEKEN and accrue pension, who have worked and accrued pension with us in the past, and those who are now enjoying their pension. For some time now, we have been working with trade unions, the Heineken Pension Fund, our works councils and the Association of Pensioners at Heineken (VvGH) on preparations for the pension transition. I am confident that the transition to the new pension scheme will go smoothly for us. 3. What gives you confidence in retirement? As part of the pension transition project team, we have a lot of contact with other companies and with employer networks. It often strikes me that we are in a favourable position at HEINEKEN. A big advantage is that we have our own pension fund with whom we have built up a constructive and good relationship. In addition, the financial situation of our pension fund is very good, which gives us a much better starting position for the transition to the new pension system. 4. How do we involve more people in their pensions? With the new rules for pensions (Future pensions act), our pensions are receiving new attention. I understand that looking at your pension is not high on your list of priorities. The good news is that you can rest assured that your pension at HEINEKEN is well organised. Also for partners and children and in case of incapacity for work. In addition, it remains your own responsibility to check whether the pension you accrue fits your lifestyle and preferences, because only YOU can judge that. This way you will be well prepared for your future!