with Jordi Knopert

Who are the faces behind Lumen Hotel & Events? And what is it like to work at Lumen? In the section "Team Talk" we put our employees in the spotlight! This time: Jordi Knopert, Event Manager at Lumen.

When and how did you realize you wanted to work in the event industry?
"I kind of stumbled into it. It wasn't a conscious choice to start working in this industry, but I really enjoy it. I'm a social person and hospitality is in my nature. These aspects are very important in this industry and therefore it suits me well."

Can you tell us more about your background (what did you study, how long have you been working at Lumen, etc.)
"I attended the secondary hotel school at Deltion College in Zwolle. Since I still wanted to pursue a higher education, I studied Business Administration at Windesheim. I have now been working at Lumen for ten years in various roles. I started as an operational coordinator, then I was Banqueting Manager, and now I am Event/Operational Manager."

What do you like to do in your free time?
"I have a sporty mindset and like to stay active, preferably every day. I cycle two to three times a week on my racing bike, run once a week, and on the other days, I go for walks. As long as I'm covering kilometers. I love being challenged in a sporty way. For example, I cycle a Gran Fondo of 100 km or longer every month with a friend. We're currently at 52 months. I also enjoy spending time with friends, family, and love to enjoy culinary experiences in hospitality."

When are you satisfied with your work? What gives you energy and where do you find satisfaction?
"Everyone who works in hospitality will recognize it, being happy and satisfied when guests are enjoying themselves. I find a lot of satisfaction in a well-organized event where everything is perfect for both the guest and my colleagues. This gives me an incredible amount of energy."

What makes it fun for you to work at Lumen?
"The diversity of the workdays. No day or event is the same, and the work environment at Lumen never bores me!"

What achievement or result at Lumen are you proud of?
"Those would be the largest events of +/- 1000 people. I have a healthy tension beforehand, but if it goes well, it gives a lot of satisfaction. Examples of these large events are the staff party of Deltion College in Zwolle with 2000 guests or the large charity dinners of sPECtakel with +/- 400 guests and many famous artists."

In what area would you like to further develop yourself?
"I think you are never done learning, and I believe you should encourage everyone to develop. If not yourself, then the colleagues around you."

What advice would you give to someone considering working in the hospitality/event industry?
"If you don't like a standard job, go discover it!"

Jordi's favorite…

• Drink: Wine!
• Dish: Oysters and/or beef tartare.
• Holiday destination: The most beautiful holiday destination was South Africa, and the most beautiful continent is definitely Asia.
• Hotel: No preference, rather an Airbnb.
• Restaurant: No fixed restaurant, I prefer to try something new each time.