WHO IS GERTJAN VAN VALEN? 

1. What's your job function? Not just your title, but what do you do?
In the Autumn of 2010 my responsibilities within the company shifted towards Operations. As Absolutely Independent is growing and business models are slightly changing we needed someone within the company to structure standard procedures.

To enable me to take on these new challenges I had to source out some of my sales responsibilities. In my new position I am still responsible for all sales activities in Germany, Belgium, Middle East, Africa, Greece and Turkey. In addition, I am responsible for multi-territory deals and other special deals within Absolutely.

2. How long have you been with Absolutely Independent?
I started on September 15, 2008.

3. What did you do previously?
For about five years I owned a surfer bar in the southwest of France and had the time of my life. Lots of sun, sea, sand, and, of course, a lot of surfing. After that I opted for a more serious career in media. I moved back to the Netherlands and started working for Eyeworks Sport. Within a year I was asked to join 3CirclesMedia, a worldwide provider of interactive game shows for TV, internet, and mobile phones. Within Absolutely most of my main responsibilities were in Sales whereas my current job description clearly shows a focus on Operations.

4. What did you study?
Originally, I was a sports instructor. But as a young kid I always wanted to become a physiotherapist specializing in sports and I sometimes still wonder how I would have ended up if I'd stayed on that course.

5. What do you do in your spare time?
Friends somehow tempted me into participating in a triathlon and I must admit I like it! I also like to enter running or biking events on a recreational level. It gives you something to train and work for and it is a lot of fun to test yourself once in a while. I also love kite surfing. Winter is a bit harsh but when spring arrives I will be on the beach again!

6. What do you like best about your job at Absolutely Independent?
I love the energy within the company. As we are still reasonably small we can make quick decisions. Also, your ideas and thoughts on any topic are appreciated. Absolutely Independent is a company with a huge growth perspective. Linked to that there are so much opportunities; you only have to grab them!