Steffen Westra

Head of Learning and Development at Plukon Food Group

Zwolle, Overijssel, Netherlands

About

As Head of Learning & Development for Plukon Food Group in Europe, I lead the strategic direction of our Plukon Academy, our in-house hub for learning, leadership, and professional growth. My mission is to create impactful development opportunities that empower employees, strengthen our leadership pipeline, and directly support our company’s strategic objectives. I work across multiple European countries and cultures, designing and delivering programs that build capabilities, foster collaboration, and prepare our people for the future of our industry. From frontline skills to executive leadership development, every initiative is designed to deliver measurable business impact. Collaboration is at the heart of my approach. Partnering with senior leaders, HR, and operational teams, I ensure our learning solutions are practical, future-focused, and closely aligned with business priorities. I’m passionate about making learning engaging, accessible, and relevant—leveraging platforms like DOCEBO, innovative AI tools, and tailored program design—so that every employee has the opportunity to thrive and contribute to our shared vision for growth.

Experience

  • Plukon Food Group (Full-time · 8 yrs 8 mos)
    • Head of Learning and Development
      Jan 2022 - Present · 4 yrs 6 mos

      As Head of Learning & Development at Plukon Food Group, I lead the development of our learning strategy across Europe, focused on building capabilities that directly support business performance and growth. I work closely with senior leadership to translate business priorities into targeted learning solutions, ensuring that L&D is embedded in how we develop people, teams and the organization. What I focus on: Driving business impact through learning Building programs that strengthen leadership, improve operational performance and support transformation across the organization. Plukon Academy Leading the design and further development of our internal academy, delivering practical, scalable learning, from shopfloor skills to leadership development, supported by platforms like Docebo and emerging digital tools. Strategic partnering Acting as a trusted partner to senior leaders, aligning capability building with company strategy and future business needs. Team leadership Leading and developing a high-performing L&D team across multiple countries, ensuring consistent quality and execution. International scope Creating a cohesive learning approach across Europe, while adapting to local contexts and cultural differences. We focus on making learning practical, relevant and measurable, so it leads to real change on the work floor.

    • HR Projectmanager
      Nov 2017 - Dec 2021 · 4 yrs 2 mos

      As an HR Project Manager at Plukon Food Group, I am dedicated to driving strategic initiatives that empower our international workforce and enhance organizational excellence. With a strong international focus, I thrive in the dynamic landscape of Plukon Food Group, where collaboration, innovation, and talent development are at the core of our success. Here's how I contribute to the Plukon Food Group's international HR initiatives: International Expertise: With a keen understanding of the complexities and nuances of international HR, I lead projects that span borders, cultures, and time zones. My work involves aligning HR practices across diverse regions while respecting local nuances, ensuring a harmonious and effective international HR strategy. Project Management Excellence: I specialize in orchestrating HR projects that drive transformative change. From talent acquisition and onboarding to performance management and diversity and inclusion initiatives, I ensure that projects are executed with precision and efficiency, delivering measurable results. Cross-Cultural Collaboration: In the international arena, I foster collaboration among HR teams in Europe. By promoting the sharing of best practices and cross-cultural understanding, I help create a cohesive international HR community that aligns with our company's mission and values. Data-Driven Insights: Leveraging data and analytics, I make informed decisions that steer our HR projects towards success. By closely monitoring key metrics and trends, I identify areas for improvement and innovation, ensuring that our HR strategies remain agile and competitive. Talent Development: My role extends beyond projects; I am passionate about talent development. I work closely with leaders to identify high-potential talent, crafting development plans that nurture their growth and ensure they contribute to our organization's long-term success.

    • a.i. HR Manager
      Apr 2018 - Jun 2018 · 3 mos

      Roles and responsibilities Implementation of personnel plan for new production plant Efficient organization of HR Processes (scheduling, administration, flexwork) Managing the absenteeism together with HR and Plant Management team Directing the HR department

  • Randstad Groep Nederland (Full-time · 7 yrs 5 mos)
    • Processmanager
      Sep 2015 - Oct 2017 · 2 yrs 2 mos

      Tasks and responsibilities in my role as process manager at Randstad Inhouse Services Project management on various national HR projects Interview and sparring partner in the field of (flexible) HR issues Customer advice on process optimisation Internal advice on the design of work processes Pool management and optimization Analyses in the field of flexible deployment of personnel Establishment of management reporting Initiation and development of cost-saving processes

    • Consultant Public Domain
      Oct 2014 - Aug 2015 · 11 mos

      Tasks and responsibilities in my role as consultant to the public sector Interview and sparring partner in the field of (flexible) HR issues Recruitment & Selection Binding and guidance of flex workers Account and customer relations

    • Consultant Large Accounts (Industry)
      Apr 2014 - Oct 2014 · 7 mos

      Tasks and responsibilities in my role as a consultant large accounts (Automotive, Food and Logistic customers) Interview and sparring partner in the field of (flexible) HR issues Recruitment & Selection Binding and guidance of flex workers Account and customer relations

  • Karwei (6 yrs)
    • Assistant Manager
      Jun 2009 - May 2010 · 1 yr

      Tasks and responsibilities in my role as assitant manager: Acting manager in case of absence Management of personnel Point of contact for customers Purchase of action articles Ultimate responsible for commercial store image

    • Salesemployee
      Jun 2004 - Jun 2009 · 5 yrs 1 mo

      Tasks and responsibilities in my role as a sales employee: Advising customers on DIY topics Providing service to customers Procurement of products Departmental maintenance Cash desk operations