Katrien Van Laethem

• 20 years of experience in Automotive, Consultancy and Transport & Logistics
• Strong track record in project management
• Experienced change manager
• Focused on facilitating personal growth

What do you do in your spare time? That fluctuates depending on the seasons. During spring and summer I try to spent time as much as possible outside, in nature: hiking, biking, padel, discovering new areas During winter and fall I read more or focus more on improvement works in the house. I like cocooning and be close to the family …

What motivates you? Small successes and that can vary from “upgrading” the house to trying out new hobbies. See things and people evolving/growing (including myself). My motivation lies in where I have been able to bring added value to someone. On the other side I try to plan for something “special” every month: a trip with friends/partner, workshop, a project in the house,.. something to look forward to.

Who is your hero? There is no 1 hero for me. I am alert when I am in contact with people. There is always something to learn. A skill, the way a situation has been handled, a vision, an alternative approach to a problem, a dance move. I pick up what I like and I integrate it

What is your motto? “Every day we can re-invent ourselves and decide to do things differently”.

What advice would you give your young self? Explore, discover and try out as much as you can, all learning goes twice as fast when you are young 😊

Why do you want to mentor? I strongly believe in the power of openly exchanging thoughts (in a save context). I love to share my experience, insights/skills that I gain / have gained. If only a few of them can help others to overwin an obstacle or help to get things into motion. Next to the mentoring engagement I am still active in a global international company what gives me the opportunity to keep in touch with the current corporate challenges.

What makes you a good mentor? That is subjective. For one person I might be a good mentor and for another person maybe less valuable. I strongly believe in “the click”. In my mentoring trajectory I am honest, easy going and open-hearted

Did or do you have a mentor in your career? Yes