Organisation and personnel

Organisation

In the decentralised structure of Batenburg Beheer N.V., the operating companies are, to a very large extent, responsible for their own results. The small-scale holding company is responsible for creating the conditions enabling the objectives to be accomplished. The holding company facilitates cooperation and the exchange of knowledge amongst the operating companies and supports them, inter alia, in the fields of controlling, purchasing, ICT and contract management. The decentralised approach fosters entrepreneurship at the base of the organisation, encourages the companies to be alert and alive to customers' needs, and boosts the commitment of employees.

Employees

Human capital is the Batenburg Group's most valuable asset in its efforts to accomplish its objectives. Its policies consequently focus on being an employer of choice able to attract and retain skilful people. It succeeds in this by offering competitive salaries, good training facilities, and a corporate culture that encourages initiative and self-development on the part of employees. In early 2009, Batenburg Beheer N.V. was selected by CFR as 'Top Employer' in the Netherlands for the third time in a row, a recognition that finds an enthusiastic response in the labour market.

The average number of employees in 2008 stood at 1,032 and is comparable with the previous year's figure (2007: 1,030). The headcount in installation engineering rose slightly, and that in trading declined slightly. By far the most employees work in the Netherlands.

Average annual turnover per employee declined by 6% in 2008, from EUR 160,750 to EUR 151,500. Less work was sub-contracted to third parties throughout the year than in 2007. Sickness absenteeism amounted to 3.5%, which is slightly higher than the 3.1% in 2007, but still stands out positively compared to the national or industry average.

Our strategy with its focus on the market is implemented by well-trained and motivated employees. To keep our professional know-how up to date we make use, inter alia, of the training courses offered by the Unto-VNI industry organisation. In 2008, Batenburg Beheer N.V. organised in-house purchasing and contract management training courses for staff and cadres of the operating companies. Intercompany exchange of knowledge is facilitated through meetings for project leaders, accountants, controllers, P&O staff and others. They enhance day-to-day know-how and promote intercompany contacts.

Group Council and CPI

The Group Council is a consultative platform for the Executive Board of Batenburg Beheer N.V. and the managements of the operating companies about important developments affecting our group of companies. The Group Council formally meets twice a year and a strategy or knowledge oriented session lasting several days is organised once a year. In addition, informal meetings are held with some regularity.

The holding company's Executive Board meets with works councils and employee representatives from the companies in the CPI (Central Personnel Information) about developments relevant to Batenburg Beheer N.V. Some of the companies have their own works council corresponding to the size of the company, while at other operating companies consultations are held in accordance with the guidelines for companies with up to fifty employees.

Thanks to the employees

In the past year, much reliance was again placed on the input and commitment of our employees. The companies CI&S, Daelman, TPC and Wisse, with a total of more than 150 employees in 2007, were taken over by Batenburg Beheer N.V. and comfortably found their way and their place in the Batenburg Group.

We would like to express our gratitude to all employees for the way they performed in 2008. Conscious of the economic recession that will hit us all in 2009, there lies a huge challenge again to achieve a good result together.