EMMA IS John Scholgens

Since 2019, he has been team leader in the very department where people with a labour market disadvantage put their talents to good use. “EMMA is an open and social company where everyone is equal. Attention to differences and target groups is a matter of course here and the diversity between these people is actually what makes working with them such fun.”

EMMA has traditionally paid lots of attention to people with less opportunities on the labour market. That's the reason for EMMA Werkt. A department where these people do their best and which is run by John Scholgens and his colleague. He manages the employees, guides them and makes sure that the department keeps running smoothly. “For me, the nice thing about working with people with a labour market disadvantage is their enormous involvement and self-reliance. These colleague’s have a great sense of responsibility, are very dedicated and always honest. I think they're such a wonderful target group that I've now been working with them for over thirty years.”

When asked why EMMA is a suitable company for someone with a labour market disadvantage, John's answer is resounding: “Because people here can all be themselves and get the chance to flourish.”

Works Council
In addition to his daily activities as team leader, John is also secretary of the Works Council. “I used to be in the Works Council at a very large company. So it was no surprise when I was asked a few years ago to breathe new life into the Works Council at EMMA. Of course, I immediately said yes: I have the experience and believe it's important that the voice of the people in a company is heard.”

The Works Council is actually a participation council and according to John those words say it all. “We meet with the management, can issue advice, include our votes on business matters and share initiatives or ideas from employees.” John also organises the Works Council elections every four years.

Retirement
But the elections in spring 2025 will be John's last, because he's planning to retire. “I'm 66 now and my wife is already retired. In recent years, I've worked a two-and-a-half day week, but now I'm going to stop entirely.”

John loves going out for meals with friends and wants to do more travelling. “We regularly go on holiday to Scotland and enjoy taking in some cycling races in France in our convertible. I also do lots of sport, four times a week in fact. Judo, running and mountain biking is going really well, despite my age. Maybe I'll soon do even more of that! However, some extra time with my grandchildren would also be really lovely.”