Jacob Kraaijenhagen
'I love the dynamics; no two days are ever the same'
Interview with Jacob Kraaijenhagen, working Team Leader Production at Gardendreams
For eleven years, Jacob Kraaijenhagen has been a cornerstone of the production hall at Gardendreams. As a working Team Leader, his day always kicks off with a morning briefing: what went well yesterday, where can we improve, and what’s on today’s agenda? There’s never a dull moment. "There is always something to do," he says enthusiastically. "Even though we build verandas every day, no two days are the same. Every project, every order, and every situation is unique, which keeps the work incredibly varied." With his technical expertise, international experience, and people-focused approach, Jacob knows exactly how to motivate and structure his team.
The heart of the production hall
Jacob is present in the production hall in every sense of the word. He oversees the entire production process, from collecting and prepping orders to the moment a veranda—including any glass sliding walls—leaves the factory as a complete package. Jacob monitors quality, scheduling, and team spirit. "I keep a close eye on all departments and jump in wherever needed. Whether it’s a colleague calling in sick, a delivery issue, or an urgent order, I make sure everything keeps moving."
Technical insight and structure
In his role, everything comes together: technical knowledge, leadership, organization, and improvisation. "You have to keep a cool head, especially when things get busy," Jacob explains. Through group chats for the various departments, he keeps a real-time eye on progress. Has everything been delivered? Does the stock match the system? Is the team on schedule? "I am constantly monitoring and stepping in where necessary."
An international atmosphere
His team is a melting pot of different cultures. "We have Spanish, Polish, and Bulgarian colleagues... that’s what makes the work so rewarding. I think it’s vital that everyone feels comfortable and enjoys coming to work. A happy team is a high-performing team. Our working languages are Dutch, German, English, and Spanish." Jacob himself lived in Barcelona for ten years and speaks fluent Spanish.
It’s all about collaboration
Jacob works closely with the production department and coordinates regularly with purchasing and management. He monitors whether additional capacity is needed, justifies budget requirements, and liaises with staffing agencies.
From lifts to glass walls
What also appeals to Jacob is the technical side of the job. He explains how his team gathers parts for an order: first, small components go into the lift system with drawers, then they fill trolleys with aluminum parts for assembly. Everything is carefully scanned, cut to size, checked, and finally bundled and packed with other materials, such as glass. "I am responsible for the entire process, from the very first screw to the final product leaving the factory."
An active lifestyle
Outside of work, Jacob is just as energetic. He lives in Lingen with his wife and two children. "I enjoy skiing, cycling, swimming, inline skating, and stand-up paddling. Staying fit is important to me, especially so I can enjoy active outings with my sons." His international background has shaped him: he lived in Barcelona for ten years followed by five years in Bali, where he met his wife. Now based in Germany for eleven years, he feels right at home at Gardendreams.
