Here’s what I bring to APG
Carmen Römer-Theunissen is programme manager responsible for implementing the renewed pension system at APG. Together with 600 colleagues, she is overseeing the implementation of new regulations, IT systems and communications for pension scheme members. It’s a task that requires considerable stamina, much like her greatest passion: endurance riding. “It’s the marathon of equestrian sports. At the highest level, you ride 160 kilometres in a single day.”
An incredible opportunity to grow
Carmen started at APG as a risk controller before moving into IT. When APG was looking for a programme manager to lead the implementation of the new pension system, she was given the opportunity, even though she knew little about pensions.
“APG recognised the knowledge and skills I brought to the table: IT, risk management, bringing structure to complex situations and making sure plans are carried out. I could learn the ins and outs of pensions along the way. I was given plenty of room to grow into the role.”
Adaptability
“When we started this project, the new pension legislation had not yet been finalised. But if we wanted to renew the entire IT landscape and transfer the first pension funds to the new system in 2025, we couldn’t afford to wait. So I proposed working with assumptions. We simply started building and made adjustments as the legislation progressed.”
Persevering and adapting
“Implementing the new pension system is much like a long-distance race. You need a great deal of perseverance and the ability to adapt. Just as in endurance riding, you can plan a lot in advance, but you also have to remain flexible.”
Carmen’s ability to quickly recognise who is best suited to a particular task, and which colleagues work best together, is a real asset.
“I have a keen eye for what does and doesn’t work together, and for the dynamics between people. I see the same things in horses and in my colleagues. With horses, you have only non-verbal communication to go on. With people, I listen to what they say while also paying close attention to how they respond to one another and to different situations.”
“That’s a skill I bring to APG. It helps me put the right people in the right roles.”
A passion for endurance riding
Carmen grew up with horses. She became Dutch national champion at just ten years old and has been riding for the Dutch national team since 1998.
“Endurance riding actually requires many of the same skills I use in my work: perseverance, dealing with setbacks, teamwork and problem-solving.”
“There are so many variables in a race. If it suddenly starts raining when you were expecting dry weather, your pace can easily be cut in half. You can’t just stick to your original plan. You have to adjust your tactics to achieve the best possible result.”