Mark Bosma (29): From intern to operations manager at BCN
“I want our guests to go home and say: I was at a top location.”
He started as an intern at 17 and now, as Operations Manager at BCN Amsterdam, he leads a team every day. Mark Bosma (29) lives and breathes hospitality and knows better than anyone how important job satisfaction, personal development, and a positive atmosphere are.
From Hoofddorp to Nieuw-Vennep
Mark is 29 years old and grew up in Hoofddorp, but since May 2024 he lives in Nieuw-Vennep with his girlfriend and their three-year-old son. “A wonderful family,” he says proudly. In his free time, he enjoys watching football, whether on TV or at the pitch. “I can’t play myself anymore due to an injury, but I keep my sporty side alive with fun outings, dinners with friends, or just quality time with my family.”
A key figure at BCN
Mark’s career at BCN is like an example of growth which is possible within BCN. “I started in 2013 as an intern at BCN during my studies in Facility Management, Hospitality & Events. After that, I stayed on as a flexible employee, moved up to Banqueting Staff, became Location Coordinator, and this year returned to Amsterdam as Operations Manager.”
Parties, renovations, and connection
WWhat stands out the most to him? Mark doesn’t have to think long. “That Christmas party we organized for Epson was really special. A mobile bar, a screen flown in from Japan, definitely something different from the standard. But also the renovation of the fourth floor here in Amsterdam, where I helped with demolition and construction. That really makes you feel involved.”
Everyday is different
Mark’s typical workday? There isn’t one. “Every day is different, and that’s what makes it fun. In the morning, I’m at reception welcoming guests, at lunchtime I’m in the restaurant, and in between, I handle administrative tasks. From invoices to coaching, everything comes up. And in the meantime, I make sure the building is tidy and the service is top-notch.”
“It’s just a great company to work for. There’s a good work-life balance, open communication, and room to be yourself. Whatever your background, you’re taken seriously and given opportunities to grow.”
Working at BCN: balance, opportunities, and fun
Mark praises the work atmosphere. “It’s just a great team. Good work-life balance, short lines of communication, and space to be yourself. Whatever your background, you’re taken seriously and given opportunities to grow.” He has fully taken advantage of these growth opportunities himself. “From intern to manager, that really is possible here. And you even get to enjoy a nice lunch along the way,” he laughs.
Guests and team first
What does he enjoy most about his job? Mark smiles. “The direct contact with guests. Whether familiar faces or strangers, it’s always nice to welcome people and make their day just a little better. I also really value coaching my team, guiding them, providing tools, and seeing them grow gives me energy.”
What drives him
Mark’s greatest motivation comes from his people. “Motivated employees create satisfied guests. And that’s what I want: that guests go home and say, ‘I was at an amazing location…that was BCN.’ If our whole team achieves that, my day is a success.”
A family-like atmosphere
What makes BCN truly unique, according to Mark? “The atmosphere. You work in a young and dynamic team, but there’s also room for fun and connection. It feels like a family here, and that’s important to me. As a manager, I see it as my responsibility to maintain that atmosphere. Because if you enjoy coming to work, you radiate that to the guests as well.”
