Impact Story – Kieran & Catherine

For the first time in the history of Lovinklaan’s Quest program, GBA leaders were asked to provide Group Quest Briefs. In this Impact Story, Kieran Thompson and Catherine Canning share their experiences from this unique Group Quest hosted in the Philippines by our board member, Maricel Atienza.

But there’s more to this special Group Quest. Kieran joined Arcadis in 2022 following the acquisition of IBI Group. Catherine too became an Arcadian through the acquisition of DPS. Last year, our Lovinklaan board members traveled to Canada and Ireland to personally introduce our array of impactful programs to these two newly acquired companies, ensuring that even newcomers benefit from our enriching opportunities. Read the first-hand experiences of Questees from the two companies below.

How has this unique Group Quest contributed to your personal and professional growth?

Kieran: I joined the Group Quest to experience the GEC in Manila to develop cultural and working relationships. In April 2024, our cohort visited the GEC Manila office for a week, exploring their capabilities and strategizing on integration targets. This Quest allowed me to represent A&U in discussions with the GEC Strategy teams and connect UK colleagues with the GEC for cross-collaboration. It empowered me to use my business acumen to link the right people with the right projects. As the most junior member of this Quest, I also gained a better understanding of leadership challenges and shared insights from my own perspective.

Catherine: The Group Quest, involving both APM and A&U, aimed to integrate the GECs into our projects by improving our knowledge of their Capabilities and Capacity ensuring that Arcadis maintains a Competitive Advantage (the 3 C’s!). During a week of workshops and presentations in Manila, we built relationships with local Arcadians and experienced the supportive, team-oriented Filipino work culture. I also enjoyed the local Karaoke (a most do!), evening meals with the team, and the beautiful turquoise waters of Puerto Galera. Since returning, I continue to share insights on the Manila team’s capabilities with the APM team, supporting the GEC integration and enabling our competitive advantage.

How did the experience influence your engagement and commitment to Arcadis?

Kieran:Lovinklaan’s Quest program gave me a voice in shaping our future with the GEC and allowed me to build valuable international relationships. On a personal level, it has helped me build good working relationships and friendships that will continue to develop.

Catherine: The Manila team’s dedication to the GEC model was truly contagious! Although there were no hard targets, each Questee was expected to become a GEC champion. I feel that learning about each other and the GEC has strengthened my commitment to Arcadis.

What advice would you give to others considering participation in Lovinklaan’s programs such as Quest?

Kieran: I would recommend Lovinklaan’s Quest program to anyone who’s keen to explore and learn. I got the opportunity to visit the Philippines for the first time, where I extended my stay to explore Arcadis Philippines and Local Sparks Projects. I met some truly amazing people and visited beautiful places that I will never forget. The experience opened my eyes to the broader Arcadis business.

Catherine: Traveling and getting to know a local community is always invaluable. It helps in working better with colleagues and appreciating work-life balance. Meeting other Quest alumni who spoke highly of the program made me feel privileged to be part of this “club.”

Do you see our programs going beyond individual impact and benefiting the overall Arcadis community?

Kieran:Our Quest aimed to enhance relationships between the GEC and integrating businesses. I am now able to share my knowledge of business strategy and cultural acknowledgement with other colleagues within A&U. Since returning from Manila, I have been facilitating introductions and filling knowledge gaps. I am keen to continue acting as a conduit to ensure these relationships grow stronger.

Catherine: The real benefit of Lovinklaan’s Quest program to the Arcadis community is how it makes a global company like Arcadis feel like a compact, well-connected community. It transforms the “large corporation feel” into a company of people striving for the same goal.