At CoNet, each colleague brings unique value to the team.
In our #CoNetStory series, we showcase how our team members’ personal passions inspire their professional expertise.
Meet our sales and support manager Mathieu Smit.
This is his #CoNetStory
Lessons from the triathlon
Last June, Mathieu completed his first Ironman triathlon in Hoorn: 1.9 km of swimming, 90 km of cycling, and running half a marathon. “Training for the triathlon taught me a lot about endurance and patience,” he says.
“Swimming was definitely my weakest discipline, so I decided to take freestyle swim lessons. I’m still not the fastest in the water, but consistency and learning the technique made all the difference. That experience reminds me that progress, whether in sport or at work, comes from small, steady efforts and looking at challenges open minded and in a positive light.”
Guided by passion, grounded in purpose
For Mathieu, perseverance is a mindset that shapes both his work and his personal life. His passion for triathlon reflects the same patience, discipline, and steady effort that he brings to his role as Sales and Support Manager at CoNet every day.
“In my job, I often find myself switching gears,” Mathieu shares. “One moment I’m deep in technical solutions, the next I’m reviewing strategy or performance indicators and after that I’m meeting with clients to explore new opportunities. It’s a constant mix of challenges, and that’s what keeps me motivated.”
Being part of CoNet’s team for over nine years, Mathieu currently leads the Sales & Services team, where his focus is on building lasting relationships, improving processes, and supporting his colleagues
From technical foundations to team leadership
Mathieu began his career in the industrial automation sector in 2000, developing a strong technical background that continues to guide his work. The experience he gained from working in the field and as a projectmanager, helps him in his current position to quickly understand new projects, estimate costs, and identify risks.
Starting as a Project Manager, he gradually grew into his current leadership role. Today, his main goal is to help shape the Sales & Services department into a well-structured, collaborative team that’s ready for future growth.
The strength of support
Whether in sports or at work, Mathieu emphasizes the importance of encouragement and teamwork, believing success is rarely a solo achievement.
“Support means everything,” he explains. “During a race, hearing people cheer you on gives such a boost. At work, it’s the same. Listening, recognizing others’ contributions, and appreciating the people behind the scenes makes all the difference. This spirit of teamwork runs deep at CoNet, where engineers and teams often go the extra mile together to deliver results.”
Looking ahead
Like any long-distance race, Mathieu approaches his professional goals with focus and patience. For the Sales & Services department, his priorities include:
- Building a structured, growth-ready service department.
- Exploring opportunities in the Process IT market and developing CoNet products into standalone services.
- Strengthening relationships with clients and ensuring they remain central to everything CoNet does.
“For me success, whether in sport or at work, is about balance, consistency, and perseverance,” Mathieu reflects.
“Every challenge is a chance to learn and improve, as long as you don’t give up.”
His advice?
“Listen carefully, support each other, and create an environment where everyone feels appreciated.”
– Mathieu Smit, Sales and Support Manager at CoNet
#CoNetStory #WorkingAtCoNet #PeopleFirst
