John Zuidhof

Team Manager procurement @ Damen Yachting

About

I have a strong background in mechanical and aerospace engineering, built on a Mechanical Engineering degree with a focus on aircraft systems, aerodynamics, propulsion, and structural analysis. Early in my career, I worked as a B1 Licensed Aircraft Engineer, where I performed and certified maintenance on airframes, engines, and mechanical systems. In this role I carried out inspections, troubleshooting, repairs, and release-to-service certifications, ensuring aircraft safety and compliance to the highest standards. I later expanded into production, engineering, and quality assurance within both the aerospace and maritime sectors. I developed broad expertise in materials science, advanced production techniques, and industry regulations for high-quality capital goods. My ability to operate independently, worldwide, and across different organizational levels has been central to my work. In addition to my technical expertise, I have also served as a team manager, leading multidisciplinary teams, coordinating workloads, improving processes, and maintaining strong cross-department communication. I focus on developing people, driving performance, and delivering results while respecting the strategic interests of the organization.

Country

Netherlands

City

Flushing

Industry

Shipbuilding

Skill

Engineering Management, Aerodynamics, Mechanical Engineering, Leadership, Engineering

Experience

Team Manager procurement

Damen Yachting

2016 - Present · 10 yrs

Vlissingen, Zeeland, Netherlands

In this position, I was responsible for ensuring that all contracted orders were delivered in accordance with the prescribed Technical Specifications, Standards, and delivery times. Due to the specific system and customer requirements, these were mainly custom-made products manufactured internationally. Given the military nature of the projects, I was involved in daily discussions regarding FAT planning and technical and/or quality issues with Dutch and foreign Navy inspectors. My communication skills, commercial insight, and technical knowledge of various production processes, systems, and shipbuilding strategies were essential in this role. Organizationally, I was part of the Procurement and Logistics department but reported directly to the Project Director.

FAT coordinator/ inspector

Damen

2008 - 2016 · 8 yrs

Vlissingen, Zeeland, Netherlands

B1 licensed engineer

Fokker

1995 - 2008 · 13 yrs

Woensdrecht, North Brabant, Netherlands

As a B1 Licensed Aircraft Engineer, I was responsible for maintaining, troubleshooting, and certifying the mechanical systems of the aircraft. My work focused on the airframe, engines, and mechanical components to ensure the aircraft was safe, compliant, and ready for operation. I carried out scheduled and unscheduled maintenance, identified and resolved technical defects, and performed inspections ranging from routine daily checks to major maintenance tasks. My role involved interpreting technical manuals, using diagnostic tools, replacing or repairing components, and ensuring all work met regulatory and manufacturer standards. I was also authorized to sign off and certify the aircraft for release back into service once maintenance was completed. This required a high level of technical expertise, accuracy, and accountability. In addition to hands-on work, I collaborated with flight crews, maintenance control, and other engineering teams to solve problems efficiently, minimize downtime, and maintain the highest safety standards.