“Everyone deserves the space to thrive, that’s something I’m proud to support.”

Who are the people working every day to secure your future pension? What motivates them, what makes their work meaningful, and where do they draw their energy from? In our series The person behind your pension, APG employees share a glimpse into their work and their lives. This time, we speak with Juliëtte Tesselhoff, who has been a client manager in Asset Management since 2019. “My job is to bring the right information, people, and perspectives together so clients can make better and faster decisions.”

What exactly does your role as a client manager in Asset Management involve?

“My role is to align APG Asset Management’s services with ABP’s needs. I serve as the linking pin between both organizations, mainly on sustainability and ESG topics, but also more broadly across investment matters. I’m not a deep specialist in one domain. Instead, I safeguard the bigger picture and how everything connects. By listening closely, asking the right questions, and placing conversations side by side, a complete picture emerges. That complete picture benefits both sides. Within APG, I provide specialists with the right context, and for ABP, I clarify what is needed. I translate complex information into recommendations that help the client make decisions.”

What makes your work enjoyable?

“It touches so many aspects of Asset Management. Geopolitical developments, risk management, and various asset classes — the major types of investments. There’s always something that requires attention, so it’s never dull. I also work with a broad group of professionals. Each person needs something different to perform at their best. I enjoy connecting that diversity and figuring out how our services can best support ABP.”

And are there days when things run less smoothly?

“When my agenda is so full that I’m only absorbing information. My strength lies in translating complex topics into something actionable, and that takes headspace. Fortunately, truly rough days are rare. I just really enjoy my work.”

You’ve been at APG for nearly seven years. What convinced you to join?

“As an economist, I’ve always been drawn to complex financial and analytical issues. In previous roles I was mostly on the policy and governance side of the pension sector, but I wanted to be closer to the investment practice. The combination of financial content, ESG dynamics, and working with many different stakeholders is what pulled me toward Asset Management. When this role opened up, everything clicked.”

How do you experience APG as an organization?

“APG is the best company I’ve ever worked for. It’s professional, strong in content, and the people are driven and kind. Everyone wants to do things well, sometimes so well that we can get a little too detailed, but that comes from passion for the work. And on sustainability, we’re truly ahead of the curve. You’re working at the forefront, close to what’s happening in the world. That makes the work fascinating.”

Where do you feel you add the most value?

“I understand how executives think and what information they need to make decisions. The key is presenting complex material clearly and concisely. I identify what’s essential, connect the dots, spot the missing pieces, and shape everything into a decision‑ready package. Always in close collaboration with our specialists.”

Alongside your day‑to‑day work, you’re also involved in Neuro Unique. What does that mean to you?

“APG brings together many different people, and that diversity is becoming increasingly valuable. Especially in Asset Management, where data‑driven, analytical, and problem‑solving skills are essential. Some brain profiles excel in those areas but may need more support in others, that’s what we call neurodiversity.

Neuro Unique aims to raise awareness about neurodiversity. Managers are often well‑intentioned but don’t always know how to adapt their leadership style to what someone may need. The network is there for both managers and employees. I’ve noticed that people speak up sooner about what they need because the network exists. It lifts a weight off their shoulders and opens the door to more constructive conversations.”

Where does your personal motivation come from?

“One of my sons is autistic. I’ve seen firsthand what happens when someone feels at ease: space opens up for growth. You don’t need to redesign your organization. With knowledge, attention, and room to be yourself, you can make an enormous difference. Everyone deserves that space to flourish, and I genuinely want that for people.”

And finally: how do you recharge outside of work?

“I row a lot, and gladly, often in competitions. In big boats, like the women’s eight, but also alone in a single scull. I don’t race to win; it gives me focus. During a race, all I think about is making my best, strongest stroke. It helps me clear my head and let go of work. Skating, another hobby of mine, does the same. You have to stay fully focused, or you end up on the ice. That mix of physical and mental intensity, that’s what gives me energy.”