With an informative booth, they were able to receive many interested visitors. The congress offered a great opportunity to strengthen existing relationships and establish new contacts within the world of embryo technology and reproductive management in bovine. We look back on two inspiring days full of valuable conversations and exchange of knowledge!
Feel free to get in touch with our team.
A great way to be active together and enjoy the outdoors. Some colleagues turned out to be real naturals on the SUP, as if they’d been doing it their whole lives! Others took a refreshing dip (voluntarily or not), but that certainly did not spoil the fun. With perfect weather, we ended the day with a barbecue and ice cream!
'During my Business Administration studies at Aeres University of Applied Sciences in Dronten, I got into the world of finance through my mother’s accounting firm. A logical step, as it perfectly matched my interest in numbers. After graduating, I started working at ABN AMRO as a business client advisor, supporting entrepreneurs with questions and advice.'
'Since spending all day on the phone didn’t quite offer the variety I was looking for, I moved on to a role as an account manager at an agricultural employment agency. I enjoyed that role until the location where I was working closed, after which I returned to the company where I had worked part-time in auto parts. There, I worked at the head office as a Quality Assurance Officer, helping branches get things back on track. Alongside my regular job, I also ran my own accounting firm, supporting (international) entrepreneurs with their tax matters.'
'After 15 years of running my own business, I was ready for something new — and NIFA turned out to be just the right fit. Since May 2025, I’m working as an Assistant Controller. At NIFA, I’m responsible for financial reporting, invoice processing, and various internal processes. I also contribute to broader projects such as our emergency response plan, biosecurity strategy, and employee handbook. Soon, I’ll be taking on the role of Head of Emergency Response as well. What I enjoy most is the variety in my work, the freedom to take initiative, and the trust I’m given — it really makes me feel at home.'
Outside of work, Elise is just as energetic. She rides motorcycles with friends and teaches horses to cope with their humans — all while caring for her own two horses at home. She also restored her own vintage tractor, with tinkering now being second nature to her.
He has not only strengthened our sales activities but also managed to motivate and coach colleagues to embrace sales with even more enthusiasm and confidence and to continue this work.
Unfortunately, every great journey also brings farewells. With a wealth of experience from pig reproduction, Hans has guided our workflows in recent years and deployed innovative technologies to improve results.
He not only supported our customers in the Netherlands, but also did so internationally, where he optimized production lines and provided valuable consultancy reports.
On behalf of the entire NIFA team, we would like to thank Hans warmly for his dedication, commitment, and collegiality. We are extremely proud of all he has achieved and wish him every success in realizing his new ambitions.
“My love for animals started at a young age – as a result, I soon spent a lot of time with horses. Besides animal care, biology has always caught my interest. Although I completed pre-university education (VWO), I noticed that I get more energy from working practically. That is why I chose to study a BSc in Animal Management, which focuses on working with animals in farms, equestrian centers, veterinary clinics and animal shelters," she explains.
For my studies, I moved to Leeuwarden five years ago, as I am originally from Heerhugowaard (North-Holland). Currently I live with my boyfriend in Leeuwarden. When I saw the vacancy at NIFA, I immediately became enthusiastic. After an on-the-job training day, I knew for sure, this is a great opportunity! I have been working as Sales Assistant since May. Together with my colleagues I support our customers, help with questions and place orders, manage the mailbox and answer phone calls. There is a good chance you will speak to me when you call us,” she laughs. “But I am not just in the office. In the past few weeks, I have joined my colleagues Corine and Linda on a couple of field days. I find reproduction really interesting, and it is great to see how our technology can really make a difference", tells Merel. At NIFA I will be trained all-round so I can explore what suits me best. In this way I learn a lot and can choose my own direction."
In her spare time, Merel enjoys spending time with her horse. She loves peace, space and nature and especially enjoys it during walks or reading a good book. She also likes to relax with a drink and good food.
"During the event, I am responsible for managing supplies, including food and drinks for participants and volunteers. This involves around 10.000 people who eat three times a day. Strict hygiene measures apply for serving food, which we have to strictly comply with. NIFA supports us in this by annually sponsoring aprons, hairnets and gloves. We are extremely grateful to them for that," says Sjaak.
Our regular packaging supplier EllePack also contributes to this initiative by supplying wrapping film completely selflessly.
We wish all volunteers and participants every success. May this wonderful event once again make a difference to many.
Also sponsor or donate? Please visit: Donate Alpe d'HuZes
For nearly a year now, Belinda has been supporting NIFA's HR policy as an independent HR professional. Based in Weert, Limburg, she brings her expertise and people skills to help our team and organization move forward. And she does so with conviction and joy. She actively contributes to staff development, supports our recruitment processes, and helps professionalize our policies. Her dedication and sharp, objective perspective make her a valued and trusted member of our team — always honest, respectful, and solution-oriented.
In her profession, she sees people as the foundation of any organization. “When employees feel they’re in the right place and expectations are clear, it creates a dynamic in which an organization can truly grow. Empowering people is something I deeply value — just like recognizing potential and highlighting quality,” Belinda says. “I love supporting NIFA in their development and growth.”
Clarity is essential to her. It creates calm, trust, and room to excel. And that’s exactly what she sees happening within our team: achieving impressive results with a relatively small but mighty group. “This team really accomplishes amazing things. I’m proud to contribute in my own way,” she shares enthusiastically.
Outside her work, Belinda stays active. She enjoys sporting walks, (city) trips, good food and especially quality time with her family. One-on-one moments with her children are are priceless to her. And shopping combined with a cosy terrace? That’s pure enjoyment. She recently got her motorcycle license and can’t wait to hit the road. You have been warned!
Since 1979, Dirk has been a familiar face in our field. “At that time, artificial insemination (A.I.) was only available for cattle. There were only 46 A.I. associations in the Netherlands. I was right in the middle of the sector, exactly when it started to transform,” says Dirk.
“In the 1980s, swine A.I. began to emerge. For NIFA, this represented an entirely new business branch. Driven by curiosity and craftsmanship, I made sure we stayed ahead in development – something that still defines NIFA’s DNA today. Around 1988, embryo transfer in cattle became an important new branch,” Dirk continues. “In the same period, we began an intensive collaboration with IMV France, which in 2010 led to further international development for NIFA and eventually to the acquisition by IMV. Not long after, in 1989, helped with the set up of Embrytec – a revolutionary lab for cattle embryo technology at the time.”
Dirk was also closely involved in equiine A.I., which started to rise in the early 1990s. “Today, around two hundred laboratories – for both fresh and frozen semen – have been set up by NIFA. When setting up an equine A.I. station, it often requires more customization,” he explains.
Dirk remained active at NIFA until 2020 and, over the years, has helped establish numerous labs across Europe and beyond. Notable examples include laboratories for the processing and storage of human donor semen and IVF, as well as the wide implementation of CASA systems within globally operating genetic giants like CRV and TOPIGS. There was also a European collaboration with ST (Sexing Technologies) for the setup of laboratories.
His career is a blueprint of the sector’s growth – from craftsmanship to high-tech equipment in cell biology. Create new life with our technology – precisely what Dirk has been doing for over forty years.
'My focus is on supporting clients dealing with reproduction in horses. A field in which I have years of practical experience. From insemination and embryo transfer to ovum pick-up and bacteriological testing, I know the processes inside out. But my knowledge extends further: whether it is a Dutch hospital that needs an update on its straw order, or an English customer asking for advice on a new nitrogen vessel, I make sure everyone gets the right information and support.'
'My years of expertise allow me to provide professional advice. I thrive on helping customers and colleagues with targeted guidance and well-thought-out solutions. New customers wanting to learn more about embryo transfer or ovum pick-up? I invite them straight away for a consultation, either online or on-site. I walk them through the process and discuss exactly which products fit their needs.'
'No two days are the same. Whether it’s a question about a delivery, technical product information, or a specific issue, I dive in and find a quick solution. At events and trade shows, I’m there to assist customers and provide advice. That direct contact energizes me, especially when I see how much our customers appreciate our dedication.'
'It’s not just customers who turn to me, also my colleagues rely on my expertise. If someone is on-site with a client and needs an immediate answer, I’m there to help. I also ensure that orders, quotations, and urgent deliveries go smoothly. Together with the logistics team, I find the best solutions and support the organization of trade fairs and events.'
'Dynamic, varied, and above all, challenging! I contribute to the success of our customers and to NIFA’s growth. I have plenty of opportunities to develop myself and grow. And to be honest, my colleagues make the job even more fun (if you can handle their bad jokes)', Corine laughs.
Does this sound like music to your ears? And are you looking for a job with variety and impact? Then take a look at our vacancies! Sales Support Cattle!
His education is in forensic science where he fostered his passion for science. Soon after leaving University he joined National Milk Records in the UK where he spent five years working closely with veterinarians and farmers, this is where his love for the industry was born. He then spent over a decade at IDEXX Laboratories, managing one of the largest European accounts. There, he honed his skills in strategic account management and building strong client relationships.
Work processes differ across the globe, and there is much we can learn from these differences. “My role is to connect countries and processes. It’s essential to understand how our clients operate so we can develop standards together that help them get the most out of our products,” Chris explains. With his strategic perspective and broad approach, he translates valuable insights into concrete solutions. This not only supports product development but also helps businesses grow and prepare for the future.
Chris is looking forward to supporting both NIFA and our clients. “I enjoy helping customers achieve their goals by providing solutions tailored to their unique needs,” he explains. To do so, he will work on-site, getting to know clients better and collaborating on innovative solutions. “By truly immersing myself in our clients’ businesses, I gain an understanding of their workflows, pain points, and concerns. This enables us to co-create products and services that drive growth and innovation.”
In addition to offering strategic advice, Chris is happy to assist with day-to-day challenges. “That practical support is just as important,” he emphasizes.
Chris looks beyond today’s challenges, concentrating on what businesses will need five years from now. Whether working with genetics organizations or international agricultural projects, Chris will look to co-create solutions that add real value and contribute to sustainable growth.
Feel free to reach out via our contact form. We’d be happy to explore how Chris can help you achieve your goals!
We pay a lot of attention to quality and service. Although we can tell you a lot about that ourselves, we would like to let some of our customers have their say.
NEW - The optimal transport box on the go!
Visit to AET-d congress in Germany
Always the first to know about the latest developments.
Founded in 1948, NIFA Technologies has been a trusted name in reproductive technology for decades. Since 1997, we have proudly carried the ISO certificate, proof of our commitment to quality and innovation. We deliver our solutions in the Netherlands and worldwide, contributing to new industry standards. Since 2010, we have been part of IMV Technologies.
Artificial Insemination A.I.
Embryo transplant E.T.
Ovum Pick OPU
IVF / ICSI
Cryogenic
Microscopy
Protective articles
Ultrasound
Semen collection
Analysing semen
Processing semen
Metering semen
Freezing semen
Storing semen
Thawing semen
Transporting semen
