How Robine grew from HNK Supporter to Location Manager in just two years

Robine van Santen (24) advanced from HNK Supporter to Location Manager of the flagship location, HNK Amsterdam Sloterdijk, in just two years. “Seize every opportunity you get and show what you're capable of. That is the most important thing."

For years, Robine would drive past the large HNK building in The Hague on the A4 highway. "I kept wondering what HNK was exactly, and when I started looking for a new job, I immediately searched 'HNK' on Google. The vision of HNK instantly appealed to me, and the strong focus on hospitality and delivering the ultimate experience perfectly aligned with my own approach," she says. We meet her at her new location, HNK Amsterdam Sloterdijk, where she has been in charge since September 1st.

Making Guests Feel at Home
Robine started in 2022 at HNK The Hague as part of the team led by Location Manager Paul Poort. "From him, I learned to see everyone as a guest and to treat our location like a hotel. It’s so important that the location looks inviting, that people feel at home, and that they want to come back," she explains. Six months later, she became a flexible host within the HNK team. "I drove across the country in my electric HNK car, stepping in at different locations when needed. It was a very fun and varied role where I got to know all the locations well," Robine says enthusiastically. "I often met colleagues from other locations and was able to easily share the knowledge I had gained."

Taking Responsibility
Yet the urge to grow remained. "Being responsible for my own HNK location seemed fantastic to me. I discussed this several times with my manager, Sanne te Ronde," she shares. "While the work of a flexible host is very varied, as a Location Manager, you have a more stable and fixed role where you can build a strong relationship with tenants." So, when the vacancy was posted online, she seized the opportunity and applied immediately. "I believe you should always grab opportunities. Don’t let them pass by. Speak up about who you are, what your vision is, and where you want to go. It’s essential to show what you’re capable of. I am convinced that the opportunities will come naturally when you do."

The Office of the Future
Fast forward: September has arrived. What is she most looking forward to in her new role? "Everything! I’m excited to get to know all the tenants, respond to their needs, and further optimize their satisfaction. Additionally, HNK Amsterdam Sloterdijk is a perfect location for hosting events, and I look forward to brainstorming with guests and creating memorable events together with the colleagues of our hospitality concept, The Social. I am very proud to lead a location that I see as the office of the future."

What works for you?

Adjust the selection to your preferences to filter the results

Amsterdam Houthavens

Managed office

  • A completely furnished office, with the wants and needs of your team taken into consideration
  • Flexible leases for offices that allow your company to grow – from 2 to 20 people
  • An all-in price, including furniture, WiFi, cleaning, security, and a hospitality team at your service
From €375 per desk per month
Amsterdam Houthavens

Custom office

  • From empty to completely furnished: you decide what your organisation needs
  • Space for 20 to 200+ people
  • Create a unique office space, with your branding and identity at the core
Amsterdam Houthavens

Meeting rooms

  • For every type of meeting: from board meetings to creative brainstorms
  • Including high end AV-equipment, designed for hybrid work
  • Bookable by the hour, for 2 to 20 people
From €35 per hour
KEEP READING
HNK Rotterdam Alexander becomes the newest Paris-Proof flagship location