The success of Event Management Group (EMG), which owns unique event venues, is not solely down to the buildings’ distinctive character. Just as important is the organisational structure, which places a strong emphasis on talent development. Young people who demonstrate ambition and drive are given the opportunity to progress and help build the organisation’s success.

A striking example of this is Lynn van Erp (22). What began as a final-year work placement in Facility Management quickly developed into a multifaceted role within EMG. From 1 October 2025, she will take up the post of full-time personal assistant to the owner, Danny Keppels. This is not only a new step in her career, but also a confirmation of Danny’s belief that nurturing talent forms the basis for growth.

From work placement to permanent role

Lynn first came across EMG when she was looking for a graduation placement. “I really wanted to do an internship in the events sector to see if it was really the right fit for me. My school put me in touch with several options, but EMG immediately stood out to me. The interview felt very welcoming and that was the deciding factor.”

After her work placement, Lynn started work straight away as an assistant site manager at Rebelle in Maastricht. There, she supported day-to-day operations and learnt the ins and outs of a busy events venue. She is now making the transition to a full-time role as a personal assistant. As part of this, she is training Rebelle’s successor and taking on a broader role as Danny’s right-hand woman.

Development and gaining experience

In a short space of time, Lynn made significant progress: from intern to assistant site manager and then to personal assistant. “At first, I combined both roles, but there is now so much work as a personal assistant that this takes up all my time. I manage Danny’s diary, prepare meetings, liaise with partners and keep track of the whole group. That gives me a bird’s-eye view of the organisation, which the location managers don’t always have.”

Over the past period, she has been given increasing responsibility. “I’m developing professionally by attending meetings more often and being able to step in when needed. When a new branch is launched, I can put forward suggestions and contribute ideas. Working alongside successful entrepreneurs is also a valuable learning experience. That combination gives me a lot of energy.”

Culture and cooperation

What Lynn values most about Event Management Group is the culture. “It feels warm and family-like. There’s a lot of laughter, and it’s OK to make mistakes. That contributes to a flat organisational structure where everyone feels at home. You can feel that atmosphere everywhere, from senior management right down to the shop floor.”

She also finds working with Danny particularly instructive. “He knows an awful lot about entrepreneurship and always takes the time to explain things. That not only gives me knowledge, but also the confidence to further develop my own role.”

Ambitions and the future

For now, Lynn is focusing entirely on her new role, but the entrepreneurial spirit at EMG is infectious. “At school, you hear a lot about entrepreneurship, but at Event Management Group you really learn it in practice. I find that inspiring. I certainly have the ambition to start my own business one day, but first I want to develop in my role as a personal assistant.”

She is also looking forward to EMG’s continued expansion. “Work is already under way to raise the company’s profile more strongly outside Limburg as well. I think it would be wonderful to play a part in that and to work together to build the organisation’s growth.”

Pride and advice for peers

Looking back, there is one moment that makes Lynn particularly proud. “During a busy weekend, there were two events taking place at the same time. For the first time, I was given the chance to run an event at Rebelle on my own. It was a large lunch where I was allowed to coordinate everything: from customer contact to managing the staff. That felt like an important step and a sign of appreciation and trust.”

For new colleagues – and certainly for those of her own age who have just left school – she has some clear advice: “Just go for it. Don’t be afraid to dive in, ask lots of questions and show initiative. By trying things out, you’ll discover what you’re good at and learn the quickest. It’s OK to make mistakes; that’s how you grow. That’s how you develop yourself and create opportunities you might not have expected.”

With her enthusiasm and dedication, Lynn is a prime example of how young talent with the right attitude is given the opportunity to progress within EMG. “I’m really looking forward to my new role and to supporting Danny. I hope to play my part in the continued growth of the whole group.”