From recruitment to Bid Management: a new step
After 8.5 years of working with full energy and a big smile in Circle8’s recruitment team, Marielle decided it was time for a breath of fresh air. She is now part of the Bid Management team led by Patrick. But how did she end up there?
"Over the past two years I had the chance to discover another side of Circle8: writing bids and assessing competencies, especially focused on recruitment and selection. To my own surprise, I turned out not only to be good at it, but I also really enjoyed doing it. It felt like a challenging puzzle, where I could switch gears under time pressure and really put my brain to work. When the role within the Bid Management team became available, I felt the itch."
After a few inspiring conversations with Nicolette and an informal cup of coffee with Patrick, everything fell into place: Patrick was completely enthusiastic about it. From that moment the way was open to a new challenge and a year full of growth and learning.
A versatile career path
Marielle’s journey to this role did not begin immediately at Circle8.
"My story started at hospitality school, which I completed successfully. But to be honest, the hospitality industry didn't quite feel like my calling. After that I ended up at a temp agency, moved into contract administration at Centric, and soon made the switch to recruitment. The social aspect of connecting people and building relationships really turned out to be my strength."
She further developed that strength during her 12 years in the recruitment world, with a clear focus on making sustainable matches. Now she brings those same skills to her new role.
"Maintaining relationships remains crucial, even in procurement. In that respect, this feels like a logical next step, where I can apply my communication and analytical skills in a different context."
The leap into the deep
Although the move to Bid Management was exciting, it feels like a welcome change for Marielle.
"I go from senior recruiter – the point of contact for questions – to the ‘new kid on the block’. That takes a bit of adjusting, but it feels fresh and challenging. It's as if I get to learn to ride a bike all over again, but within the familiar environment of Circle8."
In addition to her analytical abilities and social strengths, Marielle sees her communicative talents as a great advantage.
"Those skills are indispensable, both in interpreting complex tenders and in building relationships with internal and external stakeholders."
Overcoming challenges
The transition naturally also brought challenges with it.
"Stepping out of my comfort zone wasn't easy. Heading in a completely new direction calls for courage and belief in yourself. But it was precisely that uncertainty that shaped me. It taught me that growth begins with a bit of nervousness and a whole lot of courage."
Marielle’s golden tip
Marielle encourages colleagues to also seize opportunities within Circle8.
"If you're ready for a new step, just do it. Show yourself, voice your ambitions and don't be afraid to name what you're good at. I would never have gotten this opportunity if I hadn't made clear what I enjoyed and what energized me. Circle8 offers so many opportunities for growth, as long as you seize them yourself."
Circle8 breathes ‘Total Talent Flow’, and according to Marielle it’s precisely that flow that makes growth possible.
"Who knows where your career will go if you dare to have that one conversation. My advice: take that chance!"
With a fresh start in the Bid Management team, Marielle is at the beginning of a new adventure. And if anyone knows how to keep developing yourself within Circle8, it's her.
Do you also think it's fantastic to work in a place where trust and growth are central? Come work at Circle8 and Join the Flow! Check out
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