The first week of March was anything but ordinary. Our Business Development talents, from The Netherlands and Croatia to Mexico and everywhere in between, gathered at our HQ in The Netherlands for a week packed with fresh insights, hands‑on practice, cultural inspiration, and plenty of team‑bonding moments.

A perfect mix of learning, laughing, and launching a brand‑new BD journey.

Here’s a lively look back at the week!

Monday: A high‑energy kick‑off

We started the week with warm introductions, light‑hearted Q&As, and a relaxed vibe that made everyone feel instantly at home. Once settled, we zoomed out to the bigger picture: our organizational goals and ambitions.

After lunch, things took a personal turn (in the best way possible) as each colleague shared their own development goals in short, thoughtful presentations. We wrapped up with a session on building strong learning habits, a perfect start to day one.

Tuesday: Heritage, hands‑on skills & new challenges

The morning was all about context and inspiration with a deep dive into maritime heritage at the Maritime Museum in Rotterdam, a great reminder of the roots of one of our industries.
After lunch, it was time to roll up our sleeves for a practical cold‑calling session. The day wound down with space for reflection and follow‑up tasks, giving everyone a well‑deserved breather.

Wednesday: A taste of real BD life

Midweek meant getting into the rhythm of daily BD work. The morning focused on core tasks and applying insights from earlier sessions.

After a tasty lunch in our Mess, the group split up: some stayed in the office for ongoing tasks, while others ventured out for client visits, a great blend of internal workflow and real‑world experience.

Thursday: Strategy, storytelling & stirring the pot

Thursday delivered a mix of strategy, creativity, and connection. The morning continued with BD routines and a dive into the world of MapsTell, bringing fresh perspectives on communication and collaboration.

In the afternoon, things got creative with an energizing marketing session exploring how storytelling, positioning, and collaboration strengthen BD efforts.

The day wrapped up in The Hague with a lively cooking class, lots of chopping, stirring, experimenting, laughing, and bonding.

Friday: Presentations, big‑picture thinking & cheers to the future

The final day brought it all together. Department presentations highlighted the bigger organizational landscape and how BD aligns with teams across the company.

After a final lunch together, the group explored what a “Commercial Mindset within iPS” looks like in practice.

To top it all off, the week ended with well‑earned Friday drinks and Karaoke in Rotterdam, the perfect way to toast a full, inspiring week.

A week to remember

From cultural exploration to practical skill‑building, from reflective moments to shared meals and creative sessions, the BD Intro Week was an energizing launchpad for our Business Development colleagues.

Here’s to a future filled with growth, learning, and many more shared moments ahead!