The story of Thomas

Procurement Specialist

I’m Thomas, from Belgium, and I’m a specialist working in our distribution centre in Diest, a little way outside Brussels where our Head Office is. 

How and why did you join Toyota?

My degree is in Logistics, and I was going to do a master’s next, but I was lucky enough to get onto the Graduate Programme here. I’ve been at TME for a few years, since finishing the programme in October 2020. 

Can you briefly describe your journey through Toyota until now? 

Now that I have completed the graduate programme I will begin to rotate between the different teams. Just today I also spoke to my manager as I’d like to spend some time in warehousing and shipping too. After that maybe I could go to Head Office. There are a lot of opportunities in TME, and you are encouraged to get out of your comfort zone, learn more and discover different areas.

On our programme apart from training in house we spent six weeks on an engine production line in the UK. That was a real eye opener and we really found out how people actually work and the value they create for the company. The focus on safety and quality was intense. It was good to know and helps me in my work. 

What's it like to work at TME?

I’m still learning a lot every day and constantly improving that’s a big thing for TME. It’s part of everything we do. At the moment I have seven suppliers that I manage, forecasting and negotiating on parts supply. I’m in aftermarket, so it’s everything for the dealerships. I like the problem solving aspect of the job I’m a window into the market for the company so if there is a shortage somewhere I have to find solutions, so shifting stock around and keeping customers happy, and ordering new stock. It’s pretty fast paced, and no two days are the same.  

What do you enjoy most about your job? 

I’ve been made really welcome here. It’s like a family and I feel that I am involved and listened to. We work in a large open office where everyone speaks to you and if you have an idea you’ll be heard and respected for your contribution. It’s not easy that’s for sure, and you need to work hard but that’s good and much better then not being busy.  It’s also very rewarding when it all comes together, and our benefits are better than competitive.  