Zsuzsa de Koning- Szabo

‘I mainly recruit experts in ICT for several research groups: data science, data ecosystems, and emerging technologies. In addition I recruit for TNO Vector. This part of TNO focuses on major transitions, such as sustainability and digitalisation. We provide knowledge to support public and private parties in tackling those big challenges. I mainly search for consultants, economists, and people with extensive knowledge of policy and the public sector.’

‘Myself, I’m also an economist by trade. I studied Economic Diplomacy in Budapest, Hungary. Eventually, I took the plunge and left for the UK, where I started a career as a recruiter. The first vacancy I had to fill was scrum master. At the time, I had to look up what that even meant – but I soon found out that I enjoy recruiting IT staff and techies a lot.’

Personal process

‘When you apply for one of my vacancies, I make sure the process is as personal as possible. Before the first interview, I’ll give you a call because I’m curious to find out what your perception is of TNO. For example, we are a project organisation. What exactly does that mean to you? I can explain it using examples of project deliverables. We can also discuss how the team works together, or what the lines of development are within TNO. And if you make it to a second interview, I will always give you feedback: what went well, what would we still like to find out?’

Both committed and critical

‘TNO is an inclusive organisation. People like to share their knowledge and expertise. Based on a shared motivation, they help each other to get ahead and to contribute something to society. Colleagues are both committed and critical, but always with the right motivation. Are we doing the right things? Can we add something that will make our project even better?’

‘It is rare, but it can happen: sometimes TNO is not what you expected. For example, some candidates expect to work non-stop on a product or prototype. That is certainly part of what we do, but my unit also engages in plenty of knowledge-building. That is why I think a preliminary interview is so important. It is the first step in getting to know each other as well as possible. In the end, seeing people enjoy their work because it’s the right match is what I love most about my job.’