From Belgium to Barcelona: my boomerang adventure with OMP
Thomas De Wachter - January 16
In 2015, right after finishing university, I kicked off my career as a software engineer at OMP's head office in Belgium. Little did I know that this would lead me to an unexpected twist - a boomerang adventure from Belgium to Barcelona.
Solving complex problems
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I joined OMP’s Solver team, developing advanced mathematical tools for our supply chain planning solution. Combining my passion for math with writing clean C++ code, I thrived in analyzing and solving complex problems. Leading our team's scrum meetings became second nature to me, and I was proud to be part of a crew that was making a difference.
One of my highlights was providing advice to consultants on setting up solvers to minimize stock-outs and late deliveries. I also focused on adding 'characteristics-based planning' to our software, benefiting our customers in the life sciences industry.
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Learning language over lunch
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During my four years at our head office, I joined a language group called "BlaBla Lunch". It was a fun opportunity to practice speaking foreign languages during lunch. I love speaking Spanish, so I joined the Spanish group. The BlaBla Lunches helped me improve my language skills while helping others learning Dutch. I met great people, shared stories, and enjoyed delicious Spanish food together.
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A leap into the unknown
In 2020, a new chapter in my career began as I decided to explore opportunities closer to home. I started working at a company in Hasselt, where I developed real-time image processing software. It was interesting, but I couldn't shake off the memories of OMP and the connections I had built there.
Embracing the boomerang effect
A couple of years later, in 2022, OMP announced that they were looking for software engineers for their new office in Barcelona. I was excited! The idea of working in Spain, enjoying the sunny weather, and improving my Spanish skills was too good to resist.
I missed the supportive culture and the opportunities for personal growth at OMP, so I reached out to my old colleagues and applied for a job in Barcelona.
"Before I realized it, I was experiencing the boomerang effect – returning to OMP, but this time, to the vibrant city of Barcelona."
My life today: a mix of past and present
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After more than a year working in our Barcelona office, I’ve made new friends, caught up with old teammates from Belgium, and even work with people I met during those BlaBla Lunch sessions at the head office. It feels a bit like attending BlaBla Lunch every day.
I’m still part of the Solver team, although it has grown and split into smaller sub-teams. I’m now in the Distribution Planning team, focused on creating efficient plans for distributing produced goods. It has been a smooth change, and these fresh challenges have really boosted my passion for problem-solving.
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Navigating challenges, enjoying the perks
“Speaking of challenges: moving to another country is not all sunshine and rainbows.”
The hardest part for me is missing my friends and family. Luckily, I can visit them whenever I travel to Belgium for work, which is a nice perk of working for a Belgian company.
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Making lasting friends in Barcelona can also be tough. While the expat community here is very open, many expats tend to leave the country after a few years. I’m fortunate that my friends are still here, and I’m secretly hoping that it stays that way.
“Barcelona has truly become a second home to me, with its sunny shores, beautiful nature, and vibrant culture.”
After work, I get to relax at a terraza, savoring the food and drinks while speaking Spanish, not just as a skill, but as a daily joy.
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Are you ready for an adventure?
Looking back, I'm grateful for the opportunity to spread my wings in Spain while continuing my career with OMP. If you’re someone like me, who’s eager to explore new horizons and career opportunities abroad, I encourage you to check out our worldwide vacancies. I can tell you from my own experience that it’s a rewarding experience – from the caring culture and ongoing training to collaborating with smart and motivated people.
Thomas De Wachter
Senior Software Engineer at OMP ES
Biography
Thomas, a Senior Software Engineer at OMP in the Solver team, combines his love for math with skillful C++ coding. Focused on Distribution Planning, he creates the tools that make effective distribution plans for OMP's life science customers.
