Name: Fred Abbink

Function: Management consultant

Relaxation: Running, fitness, traveling, listening to music

Completely stopping his work for Viggo he does not but slowly but surely for management consultant Fred Abbink (65) retirement is coming in sight. In May he will step down from his duties. But he will remain involved with Viggo as a coach for executives.

Fred has worked for Viggo for nearly 47 years, making him the conscience of the handler. He started in 1978 as assistant operations officer; a position in which he handled handling with only a few colleagues. Back then, the airport welcomed about 80,000 passengers a year, a number that is now met in four or five days. Smiling, Fred recalls those days when the airport was run by a few employees. “I handled the announcements, boarding and rode with the passengers in the bus to the plane where we turned on the stairs. Then I helped with luggage and catering.” It is hard to imagine now that the airport was so small and the number of passengers so limited.

Over the past few decades, the airport and Fred's function have changed completely. The number of flights increased and Viggo grew. Fred grew with Viggo and the airport, so to speak; he became assistant manager and then general manager. In those roles, he was at the forefront of professionalizing the organization. “We made processes more efficient and made the organization smarter and more flexible.” As always, Fred maintained many mutual contacts internally Viggo and externally. “Because only if you know what's going on can a company run well.”

He chose to step back in 2022 and became a management consultant. “I talk to people a lot so I not only know what's going on on the shop floor but also how colleagues feel.” Fred gives them advice, for example, on how to deal with difficult situations. But he also helps them put things into perspective.” He is also the director's sounding board and advises managers.

“I drink many cups of coffee with Viggo colleagues and with colleagues from partner companies and Eindhoven Airport,” he downplays his role. Because in the conversations he has, making connections is paramount. Fred is convinced that you get things done when there is mutual connection and trust. “You create that by listening, stealing questions and engaging in conversation. So you also have to show your nose in the cafeteria when you don't need something immediately or need to make an announcement.”

Fred has always felt right at home at Viggo. As such, he looks back on a great career with a company that feels like family to him. “At Viggo, we are there for each other. I have always been able to use my strengths and develop myself here.” He will soon enjoy the extra time with his wife, children and grandchildren. But continuing to take beautiful trips and play sports are also high on his list of priorities. Human contact will continue to play an important role after his career with Viggo. “I am going to delve into bereavement counseling. In that role, I would like to make a valuable contribution to someone's last phase of life.”