EMMA IS Niels Verheijen

Account Manager South-West Netherlands 

Niels is no stranger to the EMMA family, having worked for us for three years 20 years ago. Now he is 'back on his former turf' and responsible for dealer contact in his region. He also advises large companies on the right footwear.  

Niels first came across Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) about 25 years ago. Following his internship, he was offered a job with an importer of workwear and work gloves. He liked that sector, and ended up staying in it for 18 years straight, going through several employers. EMMA Safety Footwear was one of them. "From 2005 to 2008, I worked at EMMA in field sales. I visited end users and advised them on our safety shoes. It was a fun time." Nevertheless, Niels left to work for an importer of teleshopping articles. "That gave me new insights and fresh ideas." Until he was itching again for a career move in the spring of 2025. "The heart wants what it wants, because when I saw the account manager job opening at EMMA Safety Footwear, I applied straight away." 

Back on familiar ground
Already at the first interviews, Niels ran into colleagues from his previous stint, which immediately made him feel welcome again. "I have always looked back fondly on my time at EMMA. I like the informal atmosphere at EMMA and the close contact with colleagues means that lines of communication are short. EMMA's wide range of products also really appeals to me; we have the right shoe for everyone and every organisation. So I was happy to go back." The team was also keen to have Niels back on board, so it was a rapid changeover. "I've been Account Manager South-West Netherlands since 1 September. I spend about 80% of my time 'out of the office' in this role. One day I'm working on dealer relations, the next day I'm advising end users (large companies with more than 250 employees). I enjoy speaking to different people and visiting different companies. Fortunately, Zundert - where I live - is right in the middle of my work area." 

Renowned A-brand
As an account manager, Niels is the point of contact for dealers and end users in his region. "I take a proactive approach. If someone has questions about a product, wants to know more about a standard or has a complaint, they can really count on me." In his role, Niels advises buyers, product specialists and sales departments on EMMA's safety footwear. "EMMA is a reputable A-brand offering high quality products. We provide customised work and service is our top priority. I convey this message to dealers, technical wholesalers and PPE specialists." Niels also trains staff. "There are a lot of developments at EMMA. Many existing shoes have been revamped, designs added to the collection and there is still a lot in the pipeline. During a training session, I show new models and explain which shoe is suitable for which industry. I also make selections for specific clients and demonstrate how we tackle workplace risks with EMMA products." 

Big football fan
Training and tackling, it's no coincidence that Niels uses these terms in his communication. After all, he is a big football fan. He can be found on the pitch every Friday night with friends. Socialising in the canteen afterwards is just as important. Niels is also a loyal supporter of NAC Breda. He has a season ticket and attends every home game. "It's actually a day-out with my group of friends every 2 weeks." The scarce free time that is left over is then spent on jogging and his family. "My wife and I regularly visit an amusement park or museum with our daughters, ending up on a cosy terrace."