“Listening, contributing ideas, and helping my colleagues grow gives me energy. That human aspect is what makes HR so interesting to me.”
Beerse | Wednesday, October 21, 2026
As an HR Support officer at Aurubis Beerse, Nicky ensures that a wide range of HR processes run smoothly behind the scenes. From payroll administration and reporting to managing bike leasing schemes and dealing with staff enquiries: her work is varied and brings her into daily contact with colleagues from across the organisation. For Nicky, one thing is key: the person behind every case.
- Nicky Fens
- 43 years old
- HR Support
- Has been working at Aurubis Beerse since February 2025
> Nicky, how did you end up at Aurubis Beerse?
I was actively looking for a new challenge. Following a number of changes at my previous employer, I started thinking about what I really wanted to do. That’s when I spotted three vacancies on the Aurubis Beerse website, including one in HR. As I’ve always been interested in HR and Aurubis is just a few streets away from my home, I decided to apply. It immediately felt like a great opportunity.
> How was your onboarding?
There are lots of HR processes, procedures and responsibilities to get to grips with. So it was an intensive learning curve. I felt a warm welcome right from the start. Right from our first meeting during the job interview, we hit it off straight away. As I gained more experience, everything started to fall into place more and more. Today, I feel comfortable in my role and I really feel that I’ve settled in.
> What exactly does your job involve?
As an HR Support Officer, I provide administrative and operational support to the entire HR department. I help ensure that staff data is processed correctly, support various HR processes, assist with monthly reporting and contribute to day-to-day HR services. I also help with matters such as bike leasing and various administrative files.
> What does a typical working day look like?
My day usually starts with checking my inbox; after that, anything can happen. We receive a lot of enquiries by email, and colleagues often pop into our office as well. It’s important to be able to adapt quickly and, at times, deal with cases at short notice. It’s precisely that variety that makes it both interesting and challenging for me.
> What makes HR so appealing to you?
What I like about HR is the opportunity to support staff, provide clarity and work together to find solutions. Behind every case there is a person, and every question or situation is different.
What I particularly appreciate is that my colleagues do this day in, day out, drawing on their extensive knowledge and dedication, but also with a great deal of warmth and respect. We all have different personalities and talents; it is precisely this mix that ensures we form a strong team.
> What gives you energy in your job?
Above all, the people around me. Of course, processes and administration are important, but for me, the real added value lies in interacting with colleagues. Listening to questions, contributing ideas and helping staff move forward is very rewarding. I also enjoy structure, administration and seeing files through to a careful conclusion.
> In your opinion, what makes Aurubis Beerse a great place to work?
For me, Aurubis Beerse is a workplace where you’re encouraged to be ambitious and where everyone plays a vital role in the bigger picture. I love the fact that colleagues from very different departments work together to achieve the same goal.
In addition, there are lots of initiatives organised, such as Lunch & Learn sessions, after-work get-togethers and staff activities. This ensures that people feel valued.
> Safety and sustainability play an important role at Aurubis. How do you experience that?
I believe safety and sustainability aren’t just isolated issues; they’re something we’re all responsible for every day, regardless of our role.
We in HR can also make an active contribution to this. Naturally, by providing staff with proper support and clear processes, but equally by remaining alert to unsafe situations, taking responsibility and addressing one another respectfully when necessary. In my view, safety often lies precisely in that daily care we show for one another.
For me, safety goes beyond simply working in a physically safe environment. It also means looking after the wellbeing of our entire Aurubis Beerse team. It means ensuring that colleagues feel comfortable at work, know where to turn with questions or concerns, and can trust that they will receive the right support when needed.
I also like to view sustainability from a broader perspective. Of course, there is the environmental aspect, which I try to be mindful of myself. For example, I cycle to work every day, come rain or shine. But for me, sustainability is also about people. Investing in staff, giving them opportunities to grow and develop, and ensuring that they continue to feel valued and engaged within the organisation in the long term.
> Who are you outside of work?
I’m a mum of three children. In my spare time, I like to spend time with family and friends. I enjoy going out for a nice meal, travelling and discovering new cultures. China was a destination that really made an impression on me.
I also love making lists and organising things. Even the little things can make me happy: a good cup of coffee, a cosy moment at home or a good chat. And every now and then I like to play a game of chess, although I try to avoid playing against my partner. I usually lose then (laughs).
Will you be our new colleague? There is still a spot available for you in one of our departments!
- Apply quickly and easily online.
- We would be happy to welcome you for an introductory interview. See you soon?
