Cordeel Nederland honours long-serving colleagues at annual jubilee event
A diverse group with one thing in common
In his speech, CEO Erik De Bruyn reflected on what sets these guests of honour apart: “It’s a privilege to honour such a diverse group of people. They differ in many ways but share one thing in common: they’re all outstanding individuals who are genuinely committed to the company.”
12.5 years of service
Bastiaan van Dijk joined Cordeel as a work planner and progressed to project manager. Erik praised his growth and dedication: “You’ve made impressive progress and delivered outstanding work on the Maersk project with your team. You also play an active role on the commercial side, helping define what sets us apart—and that is greatly appreciated.”
Lionel Blanchard started as a young engineer on Oceanco’s dry dock project, quickly moved into project management and worked on landmark projects including Clubhouse Boompjes. He now leads the final fit-out and installations of BrinkToren in Amsterdam. Erik said, “An impressive track record, one he can be very proud of.”
Maarten Lorier joined as a project manager in Zeeland and, in recent years, has worked as a development manager on construction team projects such as Hotel De Schelde and C-Sight in Cadzand. Erik stated, “Maarten is level-headed, highly professional and quick to adapt. Moving seamlessly from a factory development in Terneuzen to luxurious seaside residences is quite an achievement.”
25 years of service
Claudia Blokmaker started as a receptionist and became a key member of our admin team. For the past 15 years, she has been the familiar face and trusted sounding board in HR.
Jacco Verhole joined as an all-round crane operator and is known for his discerning eye, loyalty and strong focus on keeping building sites safe and well-organised.
Philip Vioen came on board as an apprentice carpenter and went on to become a site manager in the real estate service department. His craftsmanship and commitment in the Vlissingen workshop remain a real asset.
Arnout Bosch followed in his father Henk’s footsteps and now heads the engineering department—a cornerstone of the business. Erik remarked, “I’ve seen you evolve from an excellent engineer into a strong team leader. Not everyone manages to combine the two.”
Sam De Ridder started as a project manager in Temse and has since progressed from technical director to COO of Cordeel Nederland. Erik commented, “My right-hand man—always led by the facts, never flustered. A true leader who gives people space while supporting them down to the smallest details.”
A second milestone: 25 years of Cordeel Nederland
Alongside these personal anniversaries, the event also celebrated a company milestone: the 25th anniversary of the Cordeel family’s acquisition of Mabuwat on 19 November 1999.
Mabuwat was founded in 1945 by the Oosters family as a civil and hydraulic engineering contractor. Over the years, it built a reputation as an innovative builder and a pioneer in fast-track construction. The engineering team, led by Henk Bosch, played a key role in the company’s development—a strong foundation that is still felt today.
Erik noted, “I believe Ariaan Oosters and Dirk Cordeel can be proud of what we’ve built on that foundation and of the way we continue to do so with respect for their legacy.”
In a symbolic gesture, flowers were presented by Adri de Rijke, the longest-serving former Mabuwat colleague still with the company, and Henk Moeliker, who retired in 1965.
The gesture rounded off an event filled with pride, craftsmanship and a strong sense of togetherness—exactly what Cordeel stands for.
