Meet Gemma Vesters van Logten: Embodying Care, Courage and Collaboration
“I like working in a team where we take care of each other at work and outside of work. It is the people around me who encourage me to go the extra mile,” says Gemma, when asked what motivates her to go the extra mile.
Recently retired, Gemma has spent 44 years within Hydro and is described as the embodiment of Hydro’s core values, never shying away from a challenge, collaborative by nature, and caring for her local community.
Outside of work, Gemma spends her time volunteering at a hospice, guiding people who are at the end of their lives, in addition to working with children in the local community. Gemma is described as an admirable person by her colleagues, and although she has now left Hydro, an important member of the Hydro family.
Each year Hydro asks employees to nominate colleagues who go the extra mile for the annual Hydro People that Matter Award. The nominations are based on efforts that reflect Hydro’s values of Care, Courage and Collaboration, in or outside the workplace.
Keep reading to learn more about Gemma and what it is like to work at Hydro.
Congratulations on receiving the People that Matter Award! Can you describe what receiving this award means to you?
I was totally overwhelmed when I got the news that I was going to receive this award. It is a true honor and I am so grateful. I have been with the company for 44 years now and I still go to work with a smile on my face every day.
You exemplify the Hydro values beyond your daily work, what motivates you to go the extra mile?
I like working in a team where we take care of each other at work and outside our fences. It is the people around me who encourage me to go the extra mile.
Which of Hydro’s values mean the most to you and why?
That is collaboration. I like to work together to achieve the best result for our customers. I am only satisfied when we deliver in good quality and on time for our customers. If we need to improve things, then I am always prepared to find a solution together with my team.
As a true ambassador for Hydro, what do you think makes our company a great place to work?
I have always had the opportunity to learn and grow within the company, and I have been able to work in several departments. Additionally, when I started volunteering in the hospice in my neighborhood, Hydro was very accommodating and supportive of my engagement.
How would you describe our company culture?
People and safety are very important for the company, and this focus is evident every day.
You recently visited Oslo with your fellow award recipients. Any key takeaways from your Oslo trip you’d like to share?
The highlight was the once in a lifetime experience of attending the Nobel Peace Prize ceremony and the chance to speak to one of the laureates from Nihon Hidankyo. Furthermore, I had an amazing week with my fellow recipients.