Life at IMI: JT Van Veen
“What keeps me engaged is the chance to solve problems. I love the mindset we share – tackling tough challenges, creating solutions, and delivering on our commitments, whether for our customers or our own teams.”
We know that careers are built step-by-step – through curiosity, challenge, and opportunity.
JT Van Veen joined IMI on the graduate programme 10 years ago and has had a varied career, working at three of our global manufacturing sites in roles spanning new product development, operations, and strategic marketing.
At the heart of his career is his love for solving problems.
When IMI acquired Bimba, JT became the very first IMI employee hired at our Rockford site. Today, he leads that same facility as General Manager – a testament to his dedication, leadership, and the growth that comes with being challenged.
In his current role, JT and his team have strengthened core business processes, enhanced customer trust, and delivered a significant improvement in quality and lead times. But his journey is about more than operational excellence – it's about challenge, growth, and being an exporter of talent.
“The biggest growth, both for me personally and for the organisation, has always come from the hardest challenges.”
“Throughout my career, I’ve been fortunate to take on challenging projects and assignments thanks to the trust my leaders placed in me. I strive to extend the same opportunities to my team, empowering them to grow and succeed. I also believe strongly in the value of empathetic leadership – understanding what matters most to the people who make up your team is essential to building trust and driving results.”
“IMI has supported my career in many ways. Beyond the opportunities I’ve been given, I’ve also participated in a wide range of training programmes from foundational courses to leadership development. These sessions were led not only by IMI experts but also by external consultants who brought valuable outside perspectives and have driven meaningful shifts in how I approach my work and leadership.”
JT Van Veen’s journey is a powerful example of what it means to unlock your potential at IMI. From graduate to General Manager, his career reflects how challenge, growth, and opportunity can shape not just a successful career – but a thriving team.
By embracing tough challenges, building trust, and empowering others, JT has helped create lasting impact.
At IMI, when you’re supported to grow, challenged to lead, and trusted to deliver, you don’t just build a career – you help create a better world.
