Mark's green career at Ballast Nedam
At the age of 17, Mark den Hertog began his career in the Green Department at Ballast Nedam Road Specialties in Leerdam. And now, more than twenty years later, he is still working there.
Mark started as a grounds maintenance operative, progressed to foreman, and is now a senior site manager. Yet his journey isn’t over, because he is starting as a project lead as per January 1st, 2026. And he is also a certified European Tree Worker (ETW).
Tell us, what does a European Tree Worker do?
‘Everything related to tree care. I'm basically a bit of tree hugger,’ laughs Mark. ‘I completed the ETW course in 2011, made possible by Ballast Nedam. Since then, I have been a certified European Tree Worker. That's convenient, because some work can only be done by an ETW or under the supervision of an ETW.’
‘Everything related to tree care. I'm basically a bit of tree hugger,’ laughs Mark. ‘I completed the ETW course in 2011, made possible by Ballast Nedam. Since then, I have been a certified European Tree Worker. That's convenient, because some work can only be done by an ETW or under the supervision of an ETW.’
Can you give an example?
‘Yes, for instance, when carrying out excavation work near trees, you have to ensure the roots aren’t damaged. But I also look at the soil conditions, the planting and the biodiversity. In the past, we’d plant a row of oaks, but nowadays we mix different trees and shrubs. This is better for biodiversity and helps prevent pests like the oak processionary caterpillar.’
How did you end up at Ballast Nedam?
‘In 2005, I did an internship at a small landscaping company, but there weren’t many opportunities to progress. Through an acquantince, I heard about Ballast Nedam and applied for a job as a grounds maintenance operative. I also went to school one day a week. After two years, I had my vocational diploma and became a foreman. I usually look for a new challenge every five years or so, so I’m pleased Ballast Nedam offers so many opportunities for development.’
‘Yes, for instance, when carrying out excavation work near trees, you have to ensure the roots aren’t damaged. But I also look at the soil conditions, the planting and the biodiversity. In the past, we’d plant a row of oaks, but nowadays we mix different trees and shrubs. This is better for biodiversity and helps prevent pests like the oak processionary caterpillar.’
How did you end up at Ballast Nedam?
‘In 2005, I did an internship at a small landscaping company, but there weren’t many opportunities to progress. Through an acquantince, I heard about Ballast Nedam and applied for a job as a grounds maintenance operative. I also went to school one day a week. After two years, I had my vocational diploma and became a foreman. I usually look for a new challenge every five years or so, so I’m pleased Ballast Nedam offers so many opportunities for development.’
You're no longer a foreman. How did that happen?
‘First, I completed the ETW training and then I got my truck driving licence so that I could drive the mowing-suction combination. That's a machine for mowing the verges along motorways. I did that for a few years. Then, in 2017, I started an evening course in project management, as I wanted to move into site management. Halfway through, one of our supervisors left and I was offered the chance to step into the role.’
How did you experience that?
‘Really well! I really enjoy creating something beautiful outdoors with colleagues and making sure everything behind the scenes is well organised. But after a few years as a senior site manager, I’m ready for the next step. I indicated that I would like to be promoted to project manager and will officially take on this role from 1 January 2026. Will I stay with the Green Department for another twenty years? Quite possibly. Ballast Nedam is just a fantastic company, with great colleagues and brilliant career prospects.’
‘First, I completed the ETW training and then I got my truck driving licence so that I could drive the mowing-suction combination. That's a machine for mowing the verges along motorways. I did that for a few years. Then, in 2017, I started an evening course in project management, as I wanted to move into site management. Halfway through, one of our supervisors left and I was offered the chance to step into the role.’
How did you experience that?
‘Really well! I really enjoy creating something beautiful outdoors with colleagues and making sure everything behind the scenes is well organised. But after a few years as a senior site manager, I’m ready for the next step. I indicated that I would like to be promoted to project manager and will officially take on this role from 1 January 2026. Will I stay with the Green Department for another twenty years? Quite possibly. Ballast Nedam is just a fantastic company, with great colleagues and brilliant career prospects.’
Are you also interested in working at Ballast Nedam?
At Ballast Nedam, you can develop and become a little better every day. In the Netherlands and abroad. Together with almost 2,000 colleagues, we are committed to a future-proof living environment. Will you join our team to contribute to this?
