From trainee to commercial talent

When Daan Verbeek met Kommer Damen at the Monaco Yacht Show, he found himself at a turning point. He could keep studying, expand his own company or take a leap into Damen’s sales traineeship. That meeting made the choice clear. Kommer described the traineeship as a great opportunity to learn and grow and that final push was all Daan needed.

Entrepreneurial spirit meets maritime passion

Daan had already built a strong foundation before joining Damen. At 17, he started a one man business supporting artists at festivals. Later, he co-founded a yacht service company, maintaining vessels including a 58-meter Feadship. “Even though it wasn’t a Damen yacht,” he jokes, “it was a highlight.”

A traineeship built on customer understanding

In February 2024, Daan began Damen’s sales traineeship. “Running my own businesses taught me how vital it is to understand customers and offer tailored solutions. That aligns perfectly with the program.”

He rotated through departments like Production, Engineering, RD&I, Procurement, and Services. One standout moment? A week-long challenge to develop a new service proposition for Damen’s hub in Canada. “A week was too short,” he laughs, “but it sparked something.”

Canada: research in action

Over three extended stays in Victoria, Daan combined desk research with real conversations. He visited 25 customers, using the SPIN method, a structured way to uncover needs and challenges. These insights helped shape the hub’s long term strategy. “It was a unique chance to grow and understand the local market,” he says.

From Monaco to Galați

After a brief return to the Côte d’Azur, including a week captaining for Damen Yachting, Daan travelled to Galați, Romania. “It’s the opposite of Saint-Tropez,” he laughs. There, he worked on the BC Ferries project and followed the entire shipbuilding process from steel cutting to delivery. “The cultural contrast and hands-on experience were eye-opening.”

Looking ahead

He has now taken on the role of Sales Manager for Central America, bringing his drive to create sustainable value for Damen and our customers. This step feels like a natural continuation of everything I learned during the traineeship,” he says.

His message to others is simple. “Everyone’s willingness to share knowledge is inspiring. I want to give that back. If I can help someone now, I’m happy to do so.”