Vondels vzw
A merger is about more than paperwork. People, ways of working and strategy all need to come together. That is no small task. With guidance from Benno and Charlotte, Vondels successfully brought them together.
The client
Vondels vzw supports adults who have, or may have, a disability in the areas of housing, work and leisure.
The question
Vondels emerged from a merger involving several organisations. Even years later, bringing those organisations together continued to raise important questions: “What do we see when we look ahead together?” and “What does self-management mean in a fast-growing organisation?” Vondels needed a strategy for the future and a way to answer these questions. It also wanted support to turn that strategy into clear objectives.
The impact
We started by taking a close look at the organisation: listening to what was happening beneath the surface, reviewing documents and holding individual conversations. We brought our findings to a core group representing every level of the organisation. Critical voices and committed supporters worked on the strategy together.
Reality required us to move constantly between immediate priorities and long-term ambitions. The need to set priorities was urgent. Even so, we made room to lay solid foundations for future strategy and growth. Vondels’ decentralised structure called for a shared identity and stronger connections between its autonomous parts, while respecting each part’s local identity and what already worked well. Additional coaching for managers, strategic sparring with the leadership team and several group sessions helped build support and embed the new guiding principles across the organisation.
The challenge
Moving quickly sometimes means slowing down. That can be frustrating—unless you make it part of the process, as we did. Small interim steps helped build support while we developed an ambitious strategy. At the same time, that strategy had to remain realistic within short-term planning and budgets. By working at two speeds, we brought ambition and realism together.
“Each part of the organisation already had plenty of ambition. It was wonderful to see that energy come together around a shared identity. Unity became a source of strength, not a constraint.
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The collaboration
We had the freedom to question everything. That takes courage, and both sides brought plenty of it. Vondels works purposefully to change society and advance equal rights for everyone. We recognise ourselves in that approach and wholeheartedly share that conviction. Together, we pursue justice where it is still lacking. Vondels grew stronger—and so did we.
“Our team quickly connected with the external consultants, which mattered to us. If you only understand 70% of each other, it is difficult to achieve concrete results.
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Lessons from the journey — Wouter Dursin, Vondels vzw
- Take the time to delve into some fundamental discussions.
- Make sure to keep your organisation in the loop throughout the process.
- When looking for external assistance, consider specific profiles and aim for a great match.
Vondels vzw had support of these team members
Does this case appeal to you?
We would be happy to discuss your organisation’s specific needs. Two of our consultants will meet with you to explore your request and develop an initial proposal. Based on your feedback and further co-creation, we will then prepare a final proposal.
