Monique Nijs
Search & Project Coordinator
As part of our new interview series, introducing the Treasurer Search team, we’re excited to feature Monique. For nearly 10 years, she has been a reliable presence behind the scenes, keeping the office running smoothly and supporting the team. In addition to her role at Treasurer Search, Monique leads a fulfilling life outside the office. Balancing a passion for music by handling social media and communication for Fanfare De Echo and organising the education of young minds.
In this interview, she highlights her journey, the growth of her role, and what she finds rewarding about working in treasury recruitment. Let’s get to know Monique!
Looking back at nearly 10 years with Treasurer Search, what initially drew you to the company, and what has kept you here for so long?
I started my career at a bank, but over time it just became too large, and I no longer felt like it was the right fit for me. Pieter’s vacancy caught my eye, we had a brief phone call, then met for coffee, and it was all decided within a week. It was quick, but it felt right.
Ten years ago, Treasurer Search was just a team of three people, which I really liked at the time. It’s been great to see how the team has grown and evolved since then.
How has your role evolved over the years?
My role has always been Pieter’s right hand, but as more colleagues joined the company, my responsibilities grew as well. Initially, it was mainly Pieter, but now I support several consultants, including Haia, Kim and Dennis.
We’ve also had to manage things like moving into the new office, which added new tasks. My responsibilities have become broader, and that diversity is what I enjoy the most—no two days are the same.
What do you find most rewarding or unique about working in treasury recruitment?
Each search is different, and that’s what makes it exciting. It’s not just about finding CVs and passing them along. We always attempt to make a difference by delivering what the client needs. That high-end approach to recruitment is something I find very rewarding. Treasury and finance are also connected to my previous job, so it wasn’t entirely new to me.
It’s helpful to understand all sides—the client’s and candidate’s needs and our role as a recruitment partner. Some people prefer to follow one straight path, but we don’t work that way – we’re always adjusting to what the client and candidate need. That keeps it unique and interesting for me.
You’ve been an integral part of keeping the office running smoothly. What are some behind-the-scenes tasks you handle that people might not realize are so important?
One thing people might not realize is that I try to keep an overview of daily processes, manage and keep track of all the data behind each search, and handle the management numbers.
And organizing the fun things during the year is the extra task that gives an added bonus to my job. Events, celebrations, and holidays—whether it’s Christmas, Easter, or even our 15-year celebration. I make sure the team is looked after, and those details are important for the company culture.
In your experience, what skills have proven to be most essential for someone in your role?
You need to be flexible—very flexible. You can’t just think from Treasurer Search’s perspective; you need to see things from both the client and candidate sides as well. Flexibility means adjusting to what all parties need and expect, or adapting the communication style to fit the situation and the people. Being able to shift and adapt is the most important part of this job.
With the constant flow of communication between clients, candidates, and consultants, how do you manage to stay organized and on top of everything?
It’s a constant balancing act. Every calendar needs to be in order, every inbox is under control, and every candidate has to be informed. I rely on lists—my personal to-do list is my best friend—and I make sure to take a ‘helicopter view’ once a week to ensure nothing is overlooked.
For example, if a candidate hasn’t been interviewed yet, I send them a polite update to let them know they’re still in the running, rather than leaving them hanging. It’s all about making sure people feel valued and informed.
If there is one quote you would give others as advice, what would it be?
