From intern to Digital Project Manager: my journey at Codana
My name is Jelmer Krux. I’m 22 years old and as of September 1st (2024), I’ve officially joined the Codana team as a Digital Project Manager and UX/UI Designer. What started out as a quest to find the right internship, turned into an opportunity beyond anything I’d ever imagined: a permanent role in a dynamic and ambitious company.
From Internship to Dream Job
At the beginning of 2024, I faced an important decision: where to complete my final-year internship as a Multimedia and Creative Technology student? My main focus was UX/UI design, but as soon as I entered the world of Codana, I quickly realised there was so much more to explore. During my internship, I was given the opportunity not only to work as a UX/UI Designer but also to take on responsibilities in project management. Bingo: it turned out to be a golden combination for me.
Challenges and Grow
My internship lasted twelve weeks: it was intense, educational and full of responsibility. Instead of being assigned ‘typical intern tasks’, I luckily got the chance to make a difference in the projects I was involved in. I was so eager to learn and dedicated that I could prove through the results achieved that I was ready for more.
Well, following a positive feedback meeting, an unexpected email landed in my inbox: “Next steps: Codana x Jelmer.” This invitation to join the team permanently took me completely by surprise but my decision was made immediately!
The fact that I would be able to start my career as a Digital Project Manager, straight out of university, was something I’d never expected. Though my internship provided me with a good foundation, I did realise soon enough that project management is not to be underestimated and a discipline of its own, though. However, with the fantastic support of the management team and my colleagues, I was able to develop quickly.
In my first six months, I’ve already led multiple projects within Codana and I’ve even had the opportunity to work as a consultant for Lunar. It not only increased my responsibilities but also gave me valuable insights into the way Codana’s expertise translates into external projects.
Codana: A Place to Grow
What makes Codana truly special is its culture of trust and growth. You’re encouraged to step out of your comfort zone, to prove yourself and to make a real impact. Your ideas are heard, you’re given the space to carve your own path, and the work you do contributes to happy clients – and a better society, as corny as that sounds.
I’ve only got six months of experience as a Digital Project Manager so far, but I know that there is still so much to learn. One thing is certain: Codana is the perfect place for me to keep developing and growing. 🚀
Are you looking for an environment where you’re given opportunities and can truly make an impact too?
Check our vacancies and discover how you can start your own career at Codana!
