Svenn De Beer: IT Officer
Colleagues who have a question for our IT helpdesk or are receiving a new mobile phone or laptop will first be in contact with Svenn De Beer. He joined Mourik as an IT Assistant in June 2024 and is the first point of contact for colleagues’ IT queries, reports and feedback. In his spare time, he channels that same drive onto the training ground, where he trains with his dog Wolf and takes part in obedience competitions.
Your first point of contact for IT
Svenn’s working day invariably begins with checking his inbox and following up on incoming tickets. “I check if there are any new requests, for example from colleagues who are starting and still need hardware or access,” he explains. Using a second screen, he keeps a constant eye on incoming tickets so that queries can be dealt with quickly.
As well as handling tickets, Svenn also takes care of the practical side of IT: setting up laptops and monitors, providing mobile phones, setting up accounts and arranging access. “That variety is what makes it interesting.”
Variety and responsibility
What does Svenn like most about his job? “The combination of a great atmosphere and the seriousness of the work. IT isn’t just practical, it’s also sensitive. Just think of phishing and cyber security.” That responsibility, combined with the daily variety, means he learns something new every day.
Although Svenn didn’t have much IT experience to begin with, he quickly grew into his role. “My colleagues Marco and Vincent taught me the tricks of the trade. I’m very grateful for that.”
Before joining Mourik, he worked for a while in a cardboard factory and held a few other jobs. “I didn’t actually know Mourik, even though I live nearby. But I already knew my colleague Marco, and that’s how I ended up here. In his spare time, he channels that same drive onto the training field, where he trains with his dog Wolf and takes part in obedience competitions.
The combination of a pleasant atmosphere and the serious nature of the work. IT isn’t just practical—it’s also a sensitive field. Just think of phishing and cybersecurity.
Outside of working hours, you’ll often find Svenn on the training ground with his dog Wolf, a German Shepherd. Together, they take part in obedience competitions. He trains several times a week and is working his way up to a higher level, step by step. “The best part is working with Wolf. You really build a bond and grow together.”
During an obedience competition, dog and owner complete a set course of exercises together. “Every competition follows a set pattern,” explains Svenn. The day begins with a short training session so the dog can get used to the terrain. The dog is then checked to ensure it is physically fit.
On the competition field, under the supervision of a judge, Svenn performs various exercises with Wolf, such as heel, sit, down and jump. “It’s important that your dog stays focused, even when there are distractions,” he says. Distractions, such as a loud gunshot, are also part of the test.
Finally, the competition concludes with a ‘stay’ exercise, in which the dog remains perfectly still in its place for one minute. “That may seem simple, but it requires an enormous amount of discipline and trust between dog and owner.”
In short, together with his colleagues, Svenn ensures that IT at Mourik is in good hands, every working day.
