What is it like to work at an accountancy firm that goes beyond just crunching numbers? At Van Oers, collaboration and innovation are at the core of everything we do. Over the years, the organisation has evolved from a traditional accountancy firm into a full-service advisory firm. As a result, the firm assists clients not only with financial administration but also with issues concerning sustainability, investments, and business acquisitions. Our advisors utilize financial insights to offer clients tailored guidance, collaborating closely with their Accountant or Controller. For that reason, seamless teamwork between departments at Van Oers is key. In an interview with Rick Frijters (Assistant Controller) and Pieter Baart (Corporate Finance Advisor), both working at Van Oers, we discussed their career paths, cross-departmental teamwork, and what makes working at Van Oers unique.
Numbers as a foundation, different outcomes
Rick and Pieter both studied at Avans University of Applied Sciences, following nearly identical degree programs in Accountancy and Finance & Control. They both had a knack for numbers, but it wasn’t until they entered the workforce that they discovered just how diverse the finance field can be and which direction suited them best.
Rick started his career in Van Oers’ Accountancy department but later transitioned to the Finance & Control department, where he now works as an Assistant Controller. His main responsibilities include financial administration and budgeting for clients. Reflecting on his decision to shift from Accountancy to Finance & Control, he says: “As an Accountant, you focus mostly on the past, reviewing financial statements from previous years. At the Finance & Control team, we work with a company’s current financial position and adjust strategies to meet budget goals. I found that proactive and strategic approach much more appealing. Van Oers gave me the opportunity to explore different roles and determine what suited me best. Career paths here aren’t rigid — you can develop and grow within different departments.”
Pieter Baart works as a Financing Advisor in the Corporate Finance department. He helps clients secure funding for their investments by analyzing financial data, creating business cases, advising on financing options, and ensuring deals are finalized. Describing his role, Pieter says: “I still work with financial data, but I focus on a single issue at a time within an organization. I thoroughly explore a single subject until it’s resolved, the next challenge can be completely different. That variety makes my job incredibly dynamic.”
Collaborating for success
We asked Rick and Pieter to describe what a financing process looks like and how collaboration between departments plays a role. Rick explains: “As an Assistant Controller or Accountant, you regularly interact with clients and build a strong relationship with your clients. As a result, clients often share their business plans with us. When we recognize that financing is needed or see opportunities for sustainability improvements, we involve our colleagues from the appropriate advisory department. For example, a client recently approached me with an investment plan. I immediately brought Pieter in, who put together a financing proposal in no time. These short communication lines make a real difference.”
Pieter adds: “Our role as financing advisor is somewhat more reactive in nature—we step in when a client has a specific need. While we interact with clients less frequently, the relationships we build are still deep and personal.”
Corporate Finance advisors rely on data provided by the client’s Accountant or Controller. Pieter notes: “Many of our clients also have their financial administration handled by Van Oers, which means we have quick access to the information we need. This allows us to act fast and consult internally about possibilities without always having to involve the client in every step. The result? We can present a complete and well-thought-out advisory plan much faster, strengthening our clients’ trust.”
The strength of working as one team
When discussing what sets Van Oers apart, Rick and Pieter highlight: “At Van Oers, collaboration is key — departments are interconnected, creating a strong sense of unity and teamwork. Even if you don’t work in the same department, we still work together as one team. That’s because we all share the same goal: providing the best possible advice to our clients, as efficiently as possible.”
“And that sense of teamwork and unity extends beyond work. From social drinks and sports events to amazing company parties. Everyone is part of the same team.”
Discover your ideal path with the Finance Traineeship
Finally, we asked Rick and Pieter what their advice would be to students. Pieter shared: “Gain as much experience as you can, and don’t just settle for the first opportunity that comes your way. Figuring out what excites you and where you excel can benefit you tremendously in the long run.”
As a multidisciplinary advisory firm, Van Oers offers a Finance Traineeship that allows students to gain experience across multiple departments. This enables you to explore different areas, discover what excites you, and determine where your strengths lie — helping you make an informed decision about your future career.
Are you curious to see if Van Oers is the right fit for you? Join us for a coffee or visit our website to explore our job openings and internship opportunities!
