From cattle in Germany and pigs in Spain to even camels in Oman, Andres has supervised various challenging reproduction programs in recent years. “What do I like best? Many of the techniques we develop in veterinary medical science are later applied in human medical science. That shows how fundamental and innovative our work is.”

A place where knowledge and experience come together

Before Andres joined IMV Technologies, he worked with IMV Technologies’ products, among others, on a daily basis. “After working for three years at a pig breeding center in Spain, I was given the opportunity to start at IMV Technologies as Area Manager. Not only was it a new position, but also a great opportunity to return to Germany for my family and to apply my expertise more broadly.” He has now been with IMV for 18 years and is responsible for the DACH region: Germany, Austria, and Switzerland.  

He describes his role as versatile and dynamic, with overlaps in the areas of commerce, technology, and strategy. "My schedule is filled with customer visits, training sessions, conferences, and lots of international travel. It is precisely this variety that makes the work interesting. The international culture, the open atmosphere, and the room for innovation ensure that I can really make a difference here. At IMV, I contribute to the future of our field every day." 

Progress requires smart solutions

The world of reproduction is constantly evolving. The decline in animal protein consumption, stricter welfare regulations, and the rise of artificial intelligence are causing a shift in the sector. “We are at a tipping point,” explains Andres. “Fewer animals, but higher expectations. That requires more efficient working methods and smart choices. Technology plays a key role in this: it is no longer supportive, but decisive for success.”

Building the future together

For Andres, closer collaboration with NIFA is a logical step in an increasingly complex sector. “What immediately strikes me about NIFA is their craftsmanship, drive, and genuine commitment. These are people who not only want to achieve results but also want to do so in the right way.” For Andres, the collaboration feels both natural and valuable. “We complement each other seamlessly: NIFA with their strong customer relationships and practical approach, IMV with technological depth and an international perspective. This combination allows us to respond more quickly, deliver more customized solutions, and exchange knowledge between countries and regions. Customers deserve not only access to the best technology, but also to people who truly understand their challenges.”  

Trust as a foundation

For Andres, everything revolves around trust. “A strong customer relationship starts with honesty. If I see that another solution is better suited to a customer's situation, I am open about it. That's what real collaboration means to me.” Over the past 18 years, he has built up an extensive network of relationships. “Some customers have been with me from the beginning. Friendships have developed, which says everything about the importance of investing in people in a sustainable and sincere way.”  

What you probably didn't know... 

Even outside of work, Andres is rarely idle. He fills his free time with music, dance, sports, travel, and moments with his family. “I've been a certified Zumba instructor for over eight years. For me, it's more than just exercise: it gives me energy, pleasure, and connects me with others.” He regularly travels with his dance group to international Zumba events. “It's my way of letting go and recharging. I take that positive energy with me everywhere, including to work.” 

'During my Business Administration studies at Aeres University of Applied Sciences in Dronten, I got into the world of finance through my mother’s accounting firm. A logical step, as it perfectly matched my interest in numbers. After graduating, I started working at ABN AMRO as a business client advisor, supporting entrepreneurs with questions and advice.'

'Since spending all day on the phone didn’t quite offer the variety I was looking for, I moved on to a role as an account manager at an agricultural employment agency. I enjoyed that role until the location where I was working closed, after which I returned to the company where I had worked part-time in auto parts. There, I worked at the head office as a Quality Assurance Officer, helping branches get things back on track. Alongside my regular job, I also ran my own accounting firm, supporting (international) entrepreneurs with their tax matters.'

'After 15 years of running my own business, I was ready for something new — and NIFA turned out to be just the right fit. Since May 2025, I’m working as an Assistant Controller. At NIFA, I’m responsible for financial reporting, invoice processing, and various internal processes. I also contribute to broader projects such as our emergency response plan, biosecurity strategy, and employee handbook. Soon, I’ll be taking on the role of Head of Emergency Response as well. What I enjoy most is the variety in my work, the freedom to take initiative, and the trust I’m given — it really makes me feel at home.'

Outside of work, Elise is just as energetic. She rides motorcycles with friends and teaches horses to cope with their humans — all while caring for her own two horses at home. She also restored her own vintage tractor, with tinkering now being second nature to her.

“My love for animals started at a young age – as a result, I soon spent a lot of time with horses. Besides animal care, biology has always caught my interest. Although I completed pre-university education (VWO), I noticed that I get more energy from working practically. That is why I chose to study a BSc in Animal Management, which focuses on working with animals in farms, equestrian centers, veterinary clinics and animal shelters," she explains.

For my studies, I moved to Leeuwarden five years ago, as I am originally from Heerhugowaard (North-Holland). Currently I live with my boyfriend in Leeuwarden. When I saw the vacancy at NIFA, I immediately became enthusiastic. After an on-the-job training day, I knew for sure, this is a great opportunity! I have been working as Sales Assistant since May. Together with my colleagues I support our customers, help with questions and place orders, manage the mailbox and answer phone calls. There is a good chance you will speak to me when you call us,” she laughs. “But I am not just in the office. In the past few weeks, I have joined my colleagues Corine and Linda on a couple of field days. I find reproduction really interesting, and it is great to see how our technology can really make a difference", tells Merel. At NIFA I will be trained all-round so I can explore what suits me best. In this way I learn a lot and can choose my own direction."

In her spare time, Merel enjoys spending time with her horse. She loves peace, space and nature and especially enjoys it during walks or reading a good book. She also likes to relax with a drink and good food.