Culture and people

Rijk Zwaan is a strongly people-orientated company and believes that only well-motivated employees can realise products of the best quality. And good motivation is achieved and retained when there is a high degree of involvement with the work and pleasant, respectful collaboration amongst colleagues.

That is why Rijk Zwaan’s primary aim is to offer its employees a lasting and pleasant job with good working conditions. To this end, Rijk Zwaan operates a company culture with the following starting points:

• All communications, whether verbal or written, will always be based on the truth so that decisions can be made on this basis
• Friendliness, no animosity, but direct and clear communications
• Respect for each other's opinions and ideas
• Adherence to high moral values and norms

De-centralisation and decision-making
Within Rijk Zwaan, authority and responsibilities are delegated as much as possible and a de-centralised policy is operated. The employees are expected to act as independent entrepreneurs, always observing a high degree of solidarity in relation to their colleagues.

Rijk Zwaan has a flat organisation with a maximum of four levels of responsibility. Decision-making is done on the basis of arguments. Unquestioningly following orders, without a critical mind, is not our style. If, in an exceptional case, there is still a difference of opinion after arguments have been put forward, the decision taken by the person with the ultimate responsibility is loyally accepted and followed.

Innovation and creativity
Our business is based on the continuous development and execution of new ideas, always with market demands in mind. The dynamic market conditions require a creative attitude in the development of our products.

Business ethics
Our way of doing business is based on high standards of business ethics.

Careful use of company property
In order to carry out our work we use appropriate, well-made and durable equipment. Facilities must be such that they induce excellent results under favourable working conditions. Employees are expected to treat all company property with care. Extravagance is not our style.

Consideration for the environment
Rijk Zwaan expects from each employee that he or she shall consider whether we can make a contribution to improving the environment. Alongside economic interests, the environmental aspect will always be an important factor during decision-making.