Mother and daughter at Vebego: looking back together on fifty years of commitment

“I started in cleaning 32 years ago,” Manuela says. “Before long, I wanted more responsibility and became a facility manager.” Until 2018, Manuela was responsible for around 40 clients and 100 employees. Due to health reasons, she now works with 15 employees and three key clients.

Jennifer was introduced to the company at an early age. “When I was 15 or 16, my mum asked if I’d like to work in cleaning as well, so I could gain some work experience,” she recalls. Shortly after, Jennifer began her training as a commercial employee at Vebego. Now, 18 years later, she works in the key account management team.

Although they work for the same company, mother and daughter soon went in different directions. “We used to work at the same branch,” says Manuela. “Now we’re based in completely different locations.” Still, they continue to complement each other perfectly. Jennifer adds, “I can always rely on my mum’s knowledge.” Manuela smiles, “And if I need information quickly, I just give Jennifer a call.”

Jennifer explains, “You feel a real sense of unity and willingness to help each other every single day in our team.” Manuela agrees: “The team really feels like a small family. Collaboration is simply essential.” Jennifer adds, “Perhaps our relationship even contributes a little to the company culture. I know I feel proud when my mum is proud of me.”

Their different roles have given them an even greater understanding of one another. “I’ve gained a lot of respect for the physical side of cleaning work,” Jennifer says. When asked whether they would recommend working at the same company as a family member, Manuela answers without hesitation: “Absolutely - provided you work in different departments. It makes it much easier to maintain a healthy balance between work and home life.”

At home, Manuela and Jennifer rarely talk about work. But when either of them needs advice, they’re always there for one another. Jennifer says, “When I’m preparing a quotation, my mum’s practical experience really helps me.” Manuela laughs, “And when Jennifer has priced things very sharply and I have to deliver it, we may have the occasional discussion - but it never leads to real tension.”

Both mother and daughter have fond memories of the family day in 2008 - a large event for Vebego colleagues from Germany and the Netherlands. “The football match between the teams was a highlight,” Jennifer recalls. “The Dutch team won - we remember that very clearly.”

For Manuela, Vebego has been a constant in her life for over three decades - and therefore in her daughter’s life too. Jennifer concludes, “I truly value what I have at Vebego and feel deeply connected to the company.” She adds resolutely, “I’m never leaving!”