Ir Olav’s Globetrotters joins Profield to scale recruitment of South African professionals to the Netherlands
HILVERSUM, THE NETHERLANDS, 5 FEBRUARY 2026 – Ir Olav’s Globetrotters, a specialist in guiding South African professionals to the Netherlands, has become part of the Profield Group. The partnership follows a successful pilot in 2025, during which both organisations joined forces to place technical professionals from South Africa with companies in the Netherlands.
One mission, two areas of expertise
“We have believed since our founding that the world is bigger than the local labour market,” say Sonja Poortman and Diane van Galen Last, founders of Ir Olav’s Globetrotters. “The collaboration with Profield allows us to combine our personal approach and international expertise with their deep-rooted knowledge of the Dutch manufacturing and process industries. It is a natural step that enables us to make a difference on a larger scale.”
Rick van Diermen, co-owner of Profield, sees the labour market demanding new solutions: “The labour market is changing. If you want to remain relevant, you need to think ahead. We want to continue helping clients in the manufacturing and process industries find professionals who truly fit their organisations. Sometimes that means looking beyond the Netherlands.”
More opportunities, the same approach
For existing clients and candidates, nothing fundamentally changes. Our people, our approach and our personal guidance remain exactly as they are known. Thanks to the collaboration with Profield, we now have access to more clients, more opportunities and a broader network of technical companies seeking international talent. For candidates, this means a greater chance of finding a role that genuinely suits them. For clients, it means even more support, knowledge and capacity, without compromising on the quality and warmth they are accustomed to.
Opening new doors for Dutch companies
Our continued focus on IT, Finance and Engineering remains unchanged, while Profield’s clients gain access to a high-quality, sustainable solution to persistent skills shortages. “Profield understands the industry; we understand international candidates,” say Sonja and Diane. “Together, we are opening the door to South Africa for Dutch companies; a talent pool with immense untapped potential.”
Rick confirms the strength of the partnership: “Relocation is not a transaction. It requires preparation, guidance and genuine attention to who someone is. Ir Olav excels at this. Together, we can truly make a difference.”
Relocation with care
Ir Olav’s Globetrotters will continue to operate as an independent brand within the Profield Group, maintaining its personal and committed approach. From sourcing and permits to housing and integration, the focus remains on people. “For us, relocation is a life-changing step, not a service. We guide individuals and companies through this journey in a way that is human, clear and warm, and that will not change,” says Diane van Galen Last.
With this move, Ir Olav’s Globetrotters further strengthens its position as a bridge between South Africa and the Netherlands. And as always: Ready when you are.
