Belgian-born and originally trained in tourism management, Benjamin began his career in the hospitality sector. He rose steadily through the ranks—from receptionist to general manager of two hotels in Brussels. But after a decade, he felt the pull of something different. That change came with Serco.
His first post was as Service Manager on the newly awarded Saffraanberg contract, supporting the Belgian Defence. The task was clear: stabilise and structure the newly launched operation. Benjamin’s days were filled with team recruitment, service planning, and overseeing critical support functions—from catering and cleaning to grounds maintenance.
Soon after, he took on a new challenge—supporting border operations in France. The contract was significant: Serco had been awarded responsibility for providing logistical support to border control agents operating in demanding conditions across key port sites.
One of Benjamin’s first tasks was to equip over 300 frontline colleagues with uniforms. He led the process from start to finish—design, procurement, and distribution—ensuring the gear was not just practical, but delivered on time. He also oversaw the sourcing of mobile shelters and operational tools, supporting teams working out in the elements.
It was his first experience in procurement—and it stuck.“It’s all about enabling others to do their job well,” he says. “I realised how much I enjoyed that.”
After helping to embed the border contract, Benjamin returned to Belgium where he began supporting various local operations, again focusing on procurement. Alongside this, he pursued a Health and Safety Advisor certification, dedicating every Tuesday to training—further evidence of a career shaped by continual learning.
Soon, he was part of another new beginning—this time at the Transition House in Enghien. The project supports former detainees as they reintegrate into society, offering housing, guidance, and a path forward. Benjamin helped launch the service and was later appointed Interim Director.
Making a tangible difference
Today, Benjamin is Regional Procurement Manager for France and the Benelux. His operational background gives him an edge—he understands the realities on the ground, and how strategic procurement can make a tangible difference.
“There’s room for initiative here. If you bring a solution, people listen,” he says. “That’s not a given in every workplace.” He also speaks warmly of the culture of support. “When a colleague passed away suddenly, the team came together—not just professionally, but personally. That really stayed with me.” Looking back, he sees continuity in his career, despite the shift in sector.
“Managing catering for more than 1,000 people on a military site or kitting out border teams—it’s not so different from running a hotel. It’s about people, logistics, and high standards. As for the future, I hope to see more social impact work in Serco’s portfolio. The Transition House showed me what’s possible. I would like to see us do more of that—across Europe.”
Benjamin Rivituso
