Karin Lurvink

PGGM gave me the opportunity to make a career switch.

"I studied history, followed by PhD research into forced sourcing in the 19th century and a postdoc about the economic impact and insurance of slavery in the 18th century. With that background, I had not expected to work for an organisation like PGGM. However, I was given the opportunity and I am delighted that I took this step. In terms of previous education, I may not have been the perfect match for an average investment risk manager. But my experience as a researcher can be useful for the organisation. I study different themes in depth and conduct research to analyse the risks for PGGM. That varies from climate risks to the impact of an economic crisis on reducing the asset values.

A different background has added value

Before I made the switch, I was working with a career coach. During network conversations and applications, I noticed that many organisations were looking for that perfect match for a certain job. Fortunately, PGGM recognises that people with a different background and perspective can add value. I ask different questions and take a slightly different approach to subjects than my colleagues and I notice that a fresh viewpoint is appreciated. In terms of the subject matter, I have a lot to learn but I enjoy it."

Making a more concrete contribution to society

"There were two reasons for why I wanted to change course. On the one hand, working as a researcher is very isolated and you are very dependent on subsidies. That can be a very uncertain existence. On the other hand, I wanted to make a more concrete contribution to society. I attach great value to maintaining the health of the world we live in. And during my travels, I have seen the poverty and pollution that exists in the world. PGGM invests consciously and responsibly, and thus contributes to making the world a better place. That's important to me."

"I feel it's important to work for an organisation that adds something to society."

"I had never really worked in a team before, so I am glad that I have nice colleagues around me. People with whom I can spar in terms of subject matter as well as talk about other things. My research role in the team is new, so I have the freedom to organise my work myself. I am able to go and talk to people in PGGM to get input and analyse the risks and subjects which need more research in my team, so that I can get to work. And I like that approach."

Published: 26-05-2020