continuity, stability and
reliability, these are
the things I really value
Valuable
an inheritance but the legacy of a company. A company of great
and exciting potential. As a family we share the aspirations and
ambitions of this company. We are a part of its past, its present
and its future."
As a Member of the Management Board, Charlene will focus
mainly on the healthy long-term development of the company.
The operational management of the business is a task for the
Executive Board. "I meet regularly with the Members of the
Executive Board and we have an excellent relationship. Over the
years I have built up a real bond with Thony Ruys," says Charlene
de Carvalho. "My role is different to theirs, because I have a
supervisory task: I see my task mainly in terms of ensuring that
Heineken can attain its full development in such a way that the
next generation can take over this role in the future."
"We have absolutely no intentions of introducing radical changes
Over the years, Heineken has built a fantastic position as a
brewer, as an employer, in fact as a way of life. We consider it our
responsibility to preserve and further develop those values of the
company." Although Charlene and Michel de Carvalho live in
England, they have committed to spend at least 1-2 days a week
in The Netherlands for meetings as well as for family visits.
"My husband works in London so that's where our family life is,"
explains Charlene. "The eldest of our five children is 17, while the
youngest is 10. My father was a constant source of inspiration for
our children as well. He loved talking to the boys about cars and
airplanes. And about beer, of course. The eldest already has the
bug - his whole room is green, decorated with Heineken things.
He's proud of the history and is very interested in the company.
It's sad for the children that my father didn't live longer. But they
are just as devoted to my mother. She ensures the continuity in
our family life. Continuity, stability and reliability, these are the
things I really value. They are a major influence on my role as a
mother and as a Member of the Management Board of a valuable
company."
