At the beginning of January, Spanninga welcomed a new member to its management team: Ronald Wassens. This strategic move reinforces Spanninga's commitment to advancing its global market presence, through innovative developments and robust partnerships.

Bringing international sales experience to the table, Ronald Wassens takes on the role of Group Sales Director, aiming to fortify existing partnerships while cultivating new collaborations. His arrival comes at a critical juncture in the evolving micromobility market, demanding adaptability and foresight.

What will be your main focus points?
Wassens outlines his primary objectives, stating, "My ambition is to position Spanninga as a frontrunner in innovative lighting solutions for micromobility. In an ever-changing market landscape, staying relevant is paramount. I aim to establish Spanninga as the go-to partner for both new developments and existing solutions that align with market demands."

Navigating through challenging market dynamics requires a flexible and focused approach, presenting opportunities for new directions and development areas. Wassens emphasizes, "Our products should not only support current market segments but also pave the way for future business opportunities."

What appeals to you most about Spanninga?
What distinguishes Spanninga in Wassens' eyes is its enduring legacy and reputation as a solid company known for quality, expertise, and experience. He is particularly drawn to the company's international dimension, relishing the challenge of merging cultural differences within the European sales team. Highlighting Spanninga's geographical footprint as a strategic asset, Wassens underscores the company's commitment to proximity, with production and assembly locations strategically positioned to be closer to customers.

Wassens views technology as an important factor in shaping customer projects. He notes, "The R&D component within Spanninga is a very valuable addition, facilitating collaborative development processes with our customers." Beyond his tech-savvy mindset, Wassens places a strong emphasis on lighting design, echoing Spanninga's position as a leading international lighting brand. "Lamps should be functional and safe, but they should also look nice," he asserts, aligning with Spanninga's heritage where the company's initial lights were celebrated for their aesthetic appeal.

Can you tell us more about your experience?
When asked about his career, Wassens highlights his background in sales and transition management, emphasizing his expertise in navigating teams through evolving markets and organizational adjustments. His previous role as Commercial Director at BT Nyloplast, a leading manufacturer of plastic molded parts, showcased his ability to shape business and solutions for a global client base.

Wassens reflects on his passion for the manufacturing industry, stating, "As a manufacturer, you are a crucial partner for the industry. It's gratifying to witness products in the market that you've contributed to – it’s a truly honorable and valuable process to be a part of."

Spanninga looks forward to the dynamic leadership that Ronald Wassens brings to the organization and anticipates continued success in the ever-evolving micromobility sector under his guidance.