About me

I’m Thomas Lakerveld, an independent interim professional in the waste sector. Through Afval Regie Interim Management I support waste collection companies and municipal services that need extra leadership, structure or capacity for a while.

My background is in operations. I’ve worked in logistics, as a team lead and as a manager, and I know how a collection route works in practice. I prefer working hybrid and can operate at operational, tactical and strategic level: as interim manager or team leader, as project lead or start-up manager, and as waste and resources consultant or specialist.

Experience

Jan 2026 – present

Interim Collection Manager

Haagse Milieu Services, The Hague

Responsible for all waste collection in The Hague. Managing 5 team leaders and more than 110 staff.

Jun 2025 – Jan 2026

Planning & Logistics Coordinator

Haagse Milieu Services, The Hague

Coordinating planning and logistics for waste collection.

2020 – 2024

Team Lead Operations

Meerlanden

2016 – 2020

Logistics

Lidl Netherlands

Education and certificates

  • First-year certificate (propedeuse) in Logistics and Economics, HAN University of Applied Sciences
  • MBO level 4 Accounting Assistant
  • VCA-VOL safety certificate
  • Head of in-company emergency response (Hoofd BHV)

Sectors

  • Waste collection and processing
  • Recycling, raw materials and circular economy
  • Street cleaning and public spaces
  • Municipal services

Recommendations

Translated from Dutch.

Thomas is a driven professional with an eye for both people and results. He knows how to bring people together, thinks in solutions and is committed to continuously improving processes and teams. His open communication, commitment and goal-oriented approach make him a pleasant colleague and a strong leader. A valuable asset to any organisation!Ben BeekBen BeekHead of Operations, Haagse Milieu Services · direct managerRead on LinkedIn ↗I got to know Thomas as a “man with a mission”. Someone who holds on to a goal and looks for the most effective way to achieve it. He knows how to persuade, but is also open to feedback and acts on it. No nonsense: direct communication is what you can expect, and he is able to get the best out of his team.Rob SchramRob SchramFormer direct managerRead on LinkedIn ↗I had the privilege of working with Thomas in his role as Team Lead at Meerlanden, and I can say without hesitation that he is a true professional in his field. Thomas has proven not only that he can optimise operational efficiency, but also that he can implement improvements with a direct and positive impact on the organisation. […] His leadership, problem-solving skills and drive make him a valuable asset to any organisation!Simon BeuteSimon BeuteTeam leader, Meerlanden · colleagueRead on LinkedIn ↗I worked with Thomas at Meerlanden. In his role as team leader, we took great steps in further optimising his team. Thomas is a committed manager who approaches cases from different angles. On top of that, Thomas is simply a great colleague!Stéphanie GeertsmaStéphanie GeertsmaHR Business Partner · colleague at MeerlandenRead on LinkedIn ↗Thomas is a man who listens first and then starts thinking and exploring the possibilities. He stays human and communicates in an open and clear way. He understands better than anyone that you can only achieve something if you communicate and exchange ideas with others.Simon ScheepmakerSimon ScheepmakerFleet Manager, Schaften Construction & RecyclingRead on LinkedIn ↗

The original recommendations are on my LinkedIn profile.

Let’s talk

In a no-obligation introductory call, I’d be happy to tell you more about my experience and how I can help your organisation.

Schedule an introductory call
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