From question to insight: “I make data speak in a way everyone understands”

Specifically, that means Noor translates business questions into data-driven solutions. “People want to know whether we’re delivering on our promises. How much was ordered? How much actually arrived?” Noor makes that visible with the right datasets and calculations. She works closely with Backend Developers from IT as well as Planners, Transport Managers, Portfolio Managers, and Warehouse Managers. “I transform the data, run calculations on it, and visualize the results in dashboards that give a clear picture of where we stand.” 

Her work spans from Lieshout to Cuba, and from Italy to France. That calls for more than just technical skills; it takes a good dose of people skills too. “Some colleagues are super data-savvy, others look at you like: what am I supposed to do with this? So, I adjust how I explain things. I also give training to build data understanding. It makes collaboration a lot easier. Speaking each other’s language really helps.”

It’s exactly that mix that makes her job so enjoyable. “Half the time I’m deep into data, the other half I’m talking with people. Convincing, brainstorming, and finding the right solution together.” The creative side of the role is often underestimated, she says. “There’s always more than one way to get to the answer. The trick is to present insights in a way that instantly clicks.”

Noor describes the culture at Royal Swinkels as open and informal. “You get to know people quickly, which makes it easy to check in or chat, whether at your desk or over a drink at the bar.” That small-scale feeling within a large organization is something she really values. “It has the impact of a big company, but also this cozy, down-to-earth vibe.”

She’s also given room to grow. “If you want to develop yourself, it’s usually just a matter of asking. That could be a training, an event, or even visiting other companies to see how they do things. I even have time built into my schedule to try out new ideas or look for inspiration.” That combination of trust and freedom is highly motivating. “It’s not just about executing tasks. I’m encouraged to come up with new ideas.”

So, what feels like success to her? “When someone uses my dashboard in an important meeting. Or when I hear, ‘This report from Noor is management ready.’ But also when colleagues get excited about data. That’s when I know it’s making a difference. I’m trusted to be creative here, and I feel like my work truly matters.”