How did it all begin 20 years ago? To find the answer to this question, we sat down with founder Gijs-Jan Deenen. He eagerly starts sharing the story, full of passion, about how it all started.
Why did you start G-Nius?
“I worked for several IT companies, including a large international corporation. What I noticed within these companies was a lot of internal politics and power struggles. People weren’t focused on the business, the customers, or the employees. That disappointed me.
When you work for a corporate company, you’re more focused on planning your career than on what is important at that moment. I realized that it didn’t suit me. I want to make a difference in everything I do.
Another thing that stood out to me in these large companies was the role of management. The top-down management style is not something I enjoy. I don’t want hierarchy. The role of shareholders and banks, who have a lot of influence, are factors that I don’t find pleasant. Additionally, I missed a pragmatic approach and entrepreneurship.
I’ve always said that the IT staffing side can be much simpler and more enjoyable. I used the model of Eckart Wintzen as a basis for this. He worked according to the Cell Philosophy. The principle behind it is that a ‘group’ should not exceed 50 people, forming a cell. The person responsible for this group should know all the employees and customers, as well as their partners and children. And when the group becomes too large, the cell splits into two new groups.
What I find particularly important is the fun factor. Doing things you enjoy that benefit the customers and employees. Making sure everyone is happy, I always find that enjoyable.”
Who has inspired you?
“Toine Philippa taught me the IT staffing profession. He is a true salesman who is always active. He can motivate people and gives you responsibilities. His attitude is: go for it and reach out if you need help.
I’ve learned a lot from him: enthusiasm in your business, going for it, promising what you say and actually doing it, especially taking action and not waiting around. He is an inspiration for my way of working and how I approach many things at G-Nius.”
Did anyone help you in founding G-Nius?
“Walter van Dijk helped me with the founding process. Walter is the one who took care of all the ‘desk work’ for G-Nius. By that, I mean the establishment, organization, and all the things that needed to be figured out in the beginning. Such as registering with the Chamber of Commerce, dealing with the bank, and so on. He also came up with the first logo and created the first website.
Walter later founded G-Nius Russia and now has two locations there. He is a very loyal and professional colleague, and we still have regular contact.”
Has a lot changed?
“When we started, hybrid working didn’t exist; you were judged based on your presence. What I appreciate now is that people are responsible for their own tasks. That is fundamental to G-Nius. It doesn’t matter if you do it at the office or at home, that’s up to you. But make sure it’s completed on time and according to the agreements. I find that a very enjoyable and pleasant way of working.”
Over the past 20 years, G-Nius has been located in unique and historic places in the center of ‘s-Hertogenbosch. You can read more about this in one of our upcoming posts. Curious? Follow us on LinkedIn or keep an eye on the website.
