FIVE QUESTIONS FOR MARC BUIJS OF ING BANK
With the ‘five questions for’ series individual RMSC members get the opportunity to introduce themselves to the network. In this edition Marc Buijs talks about his role as Associate at ING Bank.
WHO ARE YOU AND WHAT IS YOUR JOB DESCRIPTION?
My name is Marc Buijs, I am 29 years old and I am currently working as an Associate within the Midcorp segment of ING Business Banking NL. Within this position I am responsible for supporting the relationship managers in the field of relationship management, market research, the realization of customized solutions and the administrative processing of mergers, company M&A, credit applications and payment services for leading businesses and institutions in the Transport, Logistics, Ports or Shipping sector.
WHAT DOES A TYPICAL DAY FOR YOU LOOK LIKE?
Although it may sound cliché, no working day is actually the same. Every credit application, bank guarantee or payment request is unique and therefore requires specialist knowledge and attention. As the largest financial services provider in the Netherlands, my colleagues and I try to work on a wide range of banking solutions. Our main principle is to help and to empower entrepreneurs to move forward by creating overview, financial flexibility and expertise. By enabling entrepreneurs to achieve their goals, they can proactively anticipate innovative developments that can yield significant cost savings. This may result in future-proof business models.
WHAT WAS THE BEST ADVICE (WORKWISE) SOMEONE GAVE YOU?
“Don’t be afraid of walking this world alone.”
The best work advice I have ever received is that you should make your own choices at all times and not let fears hold you back. No matter how big the challenge will be, there is always a solution! And even if it sometimes doesn’t seem to work, there will undoubtedly be an excellent new opportunity that you can grab with both hands. And if not, you can always create it yourself!
HOW COULD YOU BE OF HELP TO OTHERS IN THE INDUSTRY OR RMSC?
It is no secret that the maritime sector faces huge challenges in the field of financing, sustainability and technological resources. As Rotterdam port area it remains essential to continue to strengthen the competitive position. From my perspective, that starts with embracing all technological possibilities. New technologies can ensure new/strengthened collaborations and also generate far-reaching insights and information. Better travel and environmental information about the available space in the ports and terminals or the opening times of bridges and locks already can make a significant difference. The current technological developments offer an unprecedented scope of possibilities that we, as a port area, can take advantage of.
Although most banks are currently reticent in the field of shipping financing, I am firmly convinced that we, as a bank, can play a connecting role in bringing parties together. Thanks to our many years of participation in the market, we are able to act as a strategic discussion partner and share our knowledge and expertise. We have a large network and are represented at various major events.
AND LASTLY: WHAT’S IN THE NEWS WHICH RELATES DIRECTLY TO YOUR PROFESSION?
Actually, all reporting is related to my work. Whether it concerns digitization, climate change or the changing political and economic order. History has shown that any event can have a huge impact on multiple sectors and even entire economies. Disruption is the order of the day and with the advent of the internet, everything has become a lot more transparent. As a banker, it is therefore essential to keep abreast of all developments and to continue to place them in context with a touch of humour, common sense and a typical Dutch down-to-earth look.
