Building a role from the ground up.
At the time, Lavastica was still a very small organization, and there was no procurement department yet. As the company grew, so did the complexity of the supply chain. Someone needed to bring structure to procurement, and Mark naturally stepped into that space. He build the procurement department from scratch and improved the way things work.
What he enjoys most about his job? “It’s not just the buying itself, but the dynamics behind it: negotiation, relationships, and understanding what drives both suppliers and internal teams. I prefer being on the side where I’m the client,” he explains. “It fits me better, and I’m good at the art of raw negotiation and finding common ground.”
Mark’s next career step.
After more than a decade in procurement, Mark has taken the next big step in his career. “Lavastica is entering a new phase. With the group expanding through acquisitions and international growth, the organization is evolved into a multi-entity structure under the Lavastica Group.” Mark saw an opportunity to develop the centralization of procurement across all companies within the group.
“Instead of separate purchasing structures across different entities, the goal is to create one coordinated procurement organization. This shift creates more leverage in negotiations, better alignment across regions, and a more strategic approach to sourcing.” It’s a shift from operational execution to strategic direction, a natural next step after years of building the foundation.
Growing through freedom and trust.
"When I have an idea, it really sticks in my head. I become convinced it's the right direction, and then I'll do everything I can to make it happen. I like convincing people with solid arguments, and turning ideas into reality." That determination has shaped his career at Lavastica.
The idea of centralizing procurement was not immediately accepted. Like most structural changes, it came with resistance, questions, and alternative viewpoints. But Mark pushed the idea forward, backed by reasoning, analysis, and persistence. What followed was a process of discussions across management layers, refining the concept, and gradually aligning stakeholders. Eventually, the direction was agreed upon and the transformation began
Exploring the world through Lavastica.
Mark has also been heavily involved in Lavastica's international presence. Trade shows and supplier visits have taken him across Europe and beyond, from major maritime exhibitions in Southern Europe to business trips throughout Asia. Travel has become a significant part of his career. "Traveling is one of the things I enjoy most about working at Lavastica. Some people dislike trade shows, but I absolutely love them."
One destination has left a lasting impression on him: China. "There's something mysterious about it. It's open, but not completely. I love the culture, the food, and the way people do business."
More than work.
Over the years, many of Mark's colleagues have become close friends, leading to vacations together and attending each other's weddings. One of his favorite memories at Lavastica the company's trip to Athens to celebrate its 25th anniversary. "I'll never forget our trip to Athens. It was the first time we traveled together in a holiday setting instead of a business one. You really get to know each other on a different level."
For Mark, experiences like these are what make Lavastica different. "Not every company takes all of its employees on a trip like that. It really shows how much the company appreciates its people." And with the recent company trip to Porto, the team has added even more memories to look back on.
European Head Office
Vareseweg 45
The Netherlands
+31 10 265 5070
Asian Office
Star Avenue 5, 169/105
San Phak Wan
Hang Dong District
50230 Chiang Mai
Thailand
Our team.
Our team is a dedicated group of professionals with years of experience in the
maritime industry and industrial industry.
Our sales team is committed to provide you with the best possible service.
“Whether you are looking for a single piece of equipment or a complete solution,
we have the expertise and resources to meet your needs.”
Our technical support team has deep technical expertise and experience. The
service team is available to answer any questions and provide guidance on the
use and maintenance of our products.
“We provide expert advice to ensure that you get the most out of your equipment.”
Our logistics team is responsible for coordinating the delivery of our products to
customers all over the world. They make sure that shipments are delivered on
time and in perfect condition.
“We understand the importance of timely delivery and strive to ensure that all
orders are fulfilled as quickly as possible.”
