"When I started at Dutch Crowd Security (DCS), I immediately knew: this is my place," Donovan Bangma reflects. After a number of years of experience at various security companies and a period as a self-employed person, Donovan found an environment at DCS where he really came into his own. "Here we work with a personal approach, tailored to what suits you," he explains.
First steps
In his early days at Dutch Crowd Security, Donovan worked as a security guard at a casino in Amsterdam, followed by a longer period at the Bijenkorf. "It was diverse work; every day brought something new. I also learned here that in addition to safety, hospitality and hospitality are extremely important." says Donovan. These experiences helped him grow in his profession and prepared him for greater challenges.
Big jumps
Donovan's breakthrough came during the corona period. Dutch Crowd Security is the main supplier for the security services of the RAI Amsterdam. Donovan's efforts and skills were noticed by the management of Dutch Crowd Security and RAI Amsterdam during his work at a vaccination location in the RAI, which led to a promotion to coordinator. Here he quickly proved that he was ready for even more responsibility. Donovan went to work at the large complex of the RAI itself. A multifunctional complex of almost 120.000 square meters that is always fully occupied with trade fairs, conferences and events. Safety and security are of course of great importance for visitors, employees and the organization itself. After a short period as coordinator, Donovan progressed to the position of Floor Manager.
The role of floor manager
As floor manager at the RAI, Donovan was the linchpin in the web. “My days were filled with organizing and managing daily security operations,” he explains. From placing fellow security guards in the right positions and giving instructions to quickly responding to emergencies. The Floor Managers are also responsible for assessing and coaching the security guards. Donovan was in this way the connecting link between the security staff and management
Exciting moments
Donovan has experienced several exciting moments in his career. Like that time at the Bijenkorf, where he managed to stop a shoplifter in a spectacular way. “It was a moment of pure adrenaline,” he recalls. Equally impressive was securing Princess Beatrix during an event at the RAI. "It is not every day that you are given responsibility for the safety of royal visitors. That experience gave an extra dimension to the importance and diversity of my work," he reflects.
Major incidents
As a floor manager, Donovan has also had to deal with major incidents, such as the moment a man fell from a great height from a stand. “In such moments of crisis, I coordinated the deployment of emergency services and ensured efficient handling,” Donovan explains. By acting quickly in these types of situations, the emergency services are quickly on the scene and serious injury or even worse can be limited as much as possible. The role of a security guard and seamless collaboration with emergency services is crucial in ensuring safety, providing assistance and quickly resuming normal business operations.
The role of Operational Employee
After Donovan's adventure as a Floor Manager, he was ready for the next step. “There was a vacancy for an Operational Employee at Dutch Crowd Security and I decided to apply for it. That turned out well because I was hired.” he says. Donovan started at the DCS head office on March 1, 2024 in his new role as Operational Employee. Donovan is then the first operational contact for a number of customers and the security guards of Dutch Crowd Security. His responsibilities include visiting customers, maintaining contact with customers and security guards, managing and coaching the security guards, maintaining and optimizing work instructions and permanently improving the quality of service. “I am extremely proud of this next step in my career and am grateful for the opportunities Dutch Crowd Security gives me.” says Donovan. His ambition is to eventually grow into Operational Manager. “One realistic ambition if you look at the development that Donovan is going through,” says Glenn Zeilemaker, General Manager at Dutch Crowd Security.
Dutch Crowd Security as an employer
Donovan appreciates Dutch Crowd Security not only for the dynamic working environment, but also for the personal and professional support provided. “You are not a number here. The attention to personal growth makes DCS unique," he says.
For those considering applying to DCS, Donovan has a clear message: "Come by for a cup of coffee and see what we have to offer. There are so many opportunities here at DCS, for beginners and experienced professionals alike."
Want to work at Dutch Crowd Security?
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