Three questions to Suzanne Sikkema (Van Oord)

Van Oord, a Dutch family-owned business with 155 years of experience, is renowned for its innovative solutions to global marine engineering challenges. To adapt to a rapidly changing geopolitical landscape, its largest Business Unit developed a new strategy. However, this strategy struggled to progress beyond the planning stage. Van Oord sought a partner to translate this strategy into a cultural transformation, resulting in enhanced collaboration, openness, and client focus.

In partnership with &samhoud, an integrated approach was developed that connected strategy with culture. A change compass provided clarity on priorities and desired behaviors. Through interventions such as team development programs, leadership days, gamified simulations, and feedback sessions, work patterns were disrupted, and collaboration was strengthened.

This approach delivered improved business results, stronger cross-functional collaboration, greater client focus, and higher engagement. Trust and psychological safety were increased, reinforcing the feedback culture and change readiness. Leaders are now better equipped to drive effective behaviors and achieve strategic goals, ensuring lasting impact.

To learn more about our approach and results in the full case.