[MEET THE SPONSOR] Specialized Nutrition China, FrieslandCampina
Arent Naber - CFO , Specialized Nutrition China, FrieslandCampina
“Unleash your potential. Go above and beyond your job description. At a young age I have gotten the opportunity to be in a management position with important responsibilities, people entrusted those to me. I found the right mentor and once a month I looked into the mirror of reality to see myself more clearly.
How do you develop yourself into a leader? How do you manage projects? Are you being proactive by raising your hand?” thus spoke Arent Naber, CFO Specialized Nutrition China of FrieslandCampina.
Arent Naber started his professional career after studying BSc Agricultural Business Management and MSc Financial Management (Nyenrode) at FrieslandCampina in 2008. Initially, Arent wrote a thesis about international expansion of FrieslandCampina towards Brazil, had internal positions such as Integration Manager, Business Analyst, Financial Accountant, Operations Controller, Corporate Internal Audit, Customer Finance Manager, Finance Director and finally CFO of Specialized Nutrition China of FrieslandCampina. An interesting note is that Arent Naber used to be a talent in sports specifically football and he enjoys endurance sports such as running and cycling.
In this edition of Meet the Sponsor, the Benelux Chamber visits the office of FrieslandCampina and has lunch with Arent Naber and his journey of continuous self-improvement.
Friesland Campina
Royal FrieslandCampina has a history of over 150 years, established in 1871 has grown to become one of the largest global dairy companies. The company has a strong presence in the Benelux region, where its shareholder base of 15,000 farmers remains rooted and operates in over 30 countries globally.
FrieslandCampina has expanded through mergers and acquisitions, resulting in a portfolio of strong local brands across global markets, such as Friso Prestige, Black&White and Campina. The company employs 20,000 people worldwide, with around 1,000 based in its Shanghai office, supported by satellite offices in Beijing, Guangzhou, Nanjing, and Chengdu, totaling 34 offices globally.
The beauty of the company lies in its focus on one product—milk—which it transforms into a vast array of final products. From a simple liter of milk, FrieslandCampina creates diverse products, including yogurt, custard, infant formula, and specialized ingredients with infant, adult and pharmaceutical applications.
The purpose is to be nourishing by nature in the entire dairy chain: better nutrition for the world, a good living for the farmers, now and future generations. A better nutrition and contribute to a healthier China. For example, selling infant formula, dairy products and ingredients to Chinese manufacturers. FrieslandCampina has been awarded as “Best Workplace in Greater China” and “Best Workplaces for Women in Greater China” between 2020-2024 due to its diverse, equitable and inclusive company culture.
Modern Slavery Statement
FrieslandCampina commits to respecting internationally recognised human rights throughout the global value chain. Combating modern slavery is covered by their Human Rights Policy, Responsible Supplier Policy and Compass.
The multinational does not tolerate child labour and forced labour and contributes to the elimination of these wherever possible.
https://www.frieslandcampina.com/modern-slavery-statement/
Q: “What lessons did FrieslandCampina learn during the COVID-19 pandemic, and how are these reflected in its financial strategy today?”
A: “Positive developments in FrieslandCampina's product portfolio have particularly impacted its infant nutrition segment. The premium brand Friso, widely recognized, includes ingredients designed to boost immunity—a critical need today. This focus on immunity resonates strongly with Chinese consumers, especially mothers, who value these health benefits for their children, significantly enhancing brand awareness and demand.
During the COVID-19 lockdowns, the global supply chain was disrupted, and it was very challenging to ensure that our products be delivered to consumers in a timely manner. As an infant nutrition producer, we had to be agile to respond to consumers’ demand. We immediately switched from shipping to air freight and worked with every part of the supply chain to ensure timely delivery, which was well recognized by our consumers. From the finance perspective, it was not just about cost of transportation or return on investment, but also about satisfying consumers’ demand by all means and providing excellent products and services. ”
Q: “How is FrieslandCampina leveraging digital technologies, such as AI and data analytics, to improve operational efficiency and financial performance?”
A: “Two years ago, we began digitizing commercial processes. Sales representatives now use AI to capture photos of products on store shelves, with "roadshows" held on weekends. Every 30 minutes, a photo is taken, and AI calculates the number of people present.
Since I came to China we started to digitize the financial side, reducing "non-value-added" tasks and creating more opportunities to focus on strategic business partnerships. Automating manual administrative tasks improves control over financial decision-making.
By leveraging RPA (Robotic Process Automation) and AI, we enhance efficiency—and China remains at the forefront of innovation and technology.”
Q: “How does FrieslandCampina manage financial risks, particularly concerning currency fluctuations, supply chain disruptions, and inflation?”
A: “All our goods are sourced from the parent company, with production based entirely in Europe. Transactions are handled locally in RMB, eliminating currency risk on our side, as the parent company assumes that risk. For China, this approach is strategic from a risk management perspective, focusing on key risks and process controls with a strong emphasis on standardization. Ensuring a “happy flow” in processes means identifying and addressing any deviations.
Data provides clearer insights, particularly for supply chain disruptions, where maintaining inventory on hand is essential. Previously, shipments arrived by boat, but we now we also utilize rail transportation from Europe into China, which is more expensive but reduces risk. It is crucial to find the right balance for working capital management.
Despite inflation, we’ve held prices steady, with a focus on revenue growth management through mix-and-match strategies. Our goal is to keep costs low without compromising efficiency.”
Message to the Benelux community
"We appreciate all the efforts that the Benelux Chamber of Commerce is doing for companies from our 3 countries.
Through a strong network, together, we can make a positive impact for all Benelux companies that are active in China. Please join the events!
FrieslandCampina China has been awarded with the Best Place to Work award for 4 years in a row. We always have opportunities to join us!"
Advice to young talents
“Live your life. Make the right decisions. Focus on have a growth mindset and execute to perfection. I am thankful for the opportunities FrieslandCampina provided for my family and myself. I traveled to the United States, Brazil, Amersfoort, Delhi, Kuala Lumpur, Manilla, and now Shanghai.”
Book recommendations
- The Art of Coaching: Effective Strategies for School Transformation - Elena Aguilar
- Good to Great: Why Some Companies Make the Leap...And Others Don't - Jim Collins
Contact Details
FrieslandCampina China
Huai Hai Zhong Road 93, 200021, Shanghai
T +86 216 391 0066
M recruiting.china@frieslandcampina.com