From Taking Ownership to Leading a Business

When Fabian van Netten joined Ingram Micro, he was looking for something unique.

He wanted the entrepreneurial freedom of a smaller company combined with the opportunities and scale of a global technology leader.

What he found was an environment where people are empowered to take ownership, develop their ideas, and turn them into reality. "From day one, it felt like a place where you can truly make an impact. You are given the space to grow, take ownership, make mistakes, learn from them, and celebrate success."

Seven years later, that opportunity to grow continues to be one of the things he values most about working at Ingram Micro.

Leading Software, Cloud & Security in a Fast-Moving Industry

Today, Fabian serves as Country Manager for Software, Cloud & Security in the Netherlands.

His responsibilities span every aspect of the business, from strategy and sales performance to talent development, recruitment, financial results, customer satisfaction, and partner relationships.

While the role carries significant responsibility, it's the variety that keeps him motivated.  "Every day is different, and every day presents a new opportunity to help our team, partners, and customers succeed."

Working in one of the most dynamic segments of the technology industry means adapting constantly to market changes while helping partners navigate new opportunities in software, cloud, and cybersecurity.

Building Teams and Creating a Winning Culture

When asked what achievement he is most proud of, Fabian doesn't point to revenue figures or individual projects.

Instead, he points to people. "What I am most proud of is the growth I have been able to make within Ingram Micro and the teams we have built along the way."

Throughout his career at Ingram Micro, he has been given opportunities to take on increasing responsibility, tackle complex challenges, and build teams from the ground up.

Those experiences have resulted in more than business growth.

They've helped create a culture where people are empowered to learn, develop, and perform at their best.

"Today, more than any specific project, I am proud of the team we have built and the culture we have created together."

Learning Through Ownership

For Fabian, professional growth happens when trust and accountability go hand in hand.

He credits much of his development to the people around him, colleagues who were willing to share their knowledge, offer guidance, and support new ideas.

But equally important was Ingram Micro's willingness to let people learn through experience. "The company is very outcome-driven. If you have an idea that can improve the business, you are encouraged to develop it, execute it, and make it happen."

That combination of freedom, responsibility, and support helped accelerate his growth and develop his leadership skills.

A Culture of Ambition and Action

Fabian describes Ingram Micro's culture with a simple phrase: Work hard, play hard.

People are ambitious, driven to succeed, and committed to helping one another achieve results.

At the same time, teams make time to celebrate their accomplishments and enjoy the journey together.

What stands out most is the organization's no-nonsense mindset. "If you see a better, faster, smarter, or more efficient way of doing something, you are expected to speak up and take action."

It's a culture that rewards initiative and encourages people to contribute ideas regardless of their role or level within the organization.

At the Center of Innovation

One of the things Fabian enjoys most is working at the heart of the global technology ecosystem.

As a key player in the IT channel, Ingram Micro helps connect vendors, partners, and customers while supporting the adoption of rapidly evolving technologies. "We are constantly challenged to adapt, innovate, and find better ways to support our partners and customers."

That continuous evolution creates an environment where every day brings new opportunities to learn, solve problems, and create value.

For someone who enjoys innovation and change, it's the perfect place to build a career.

Advice for Future Associates

For anyone considering a career at Ingram Micro, Fabian encourages them to start with a clear vision of where they want to grow.

Whether the goal is building expertise, strengthening leadership capabilities, or advancing professionally, he believes the opportunities are available. Most importantly, he encourages people to recognize the impact they can have.

"Never see yourself as just one person in a large organization. See yourself as someone who can contribute ideas, create value, and make a real impact on the success of the business."

Working at Ingram Micro Means...

When asked to complete the sentence, "Working at Ingram Micro means...", Fabian's answer perfectly reflects his experience.

"Working at Ingram Micro means becoming part of a winning mentality culture where ambitious people are empowered to grow, take ownership, and turn ideas into reality."

For Fabian, success isn't simply about achieving results. It's about creating an environment where people are trusted to lead, encouraged to grow, and inspired to make a difference every day.