In this edition of our spotlight series, we asked Teresa Van De Putte, FCI's Administrative Assistant, to answer a few questions so you can get to know her better.

What got you started in the industry?

34 years ago, I saw a job opening in the newspaper (well before we all had personal computers ?)

What did you like the most at the FCI 54th Annual Meeting, and what do you look forward to most at next year’s Annual Meeting in Marrakesh?

The camaraderie of the factoring industry. If you have ever attended any annual meeting, you will see that people, despite cultural differences, are genuinely glad to see one another meet & discuss the industry. You can see the passion everyone has for the industry. It is truly the FCI Family. For next year, I will look forward to seeing the culture of Morocco & of course, tasting the wonderful food!

How long have you worked for FCI, and what do you love the most about your job?

I have worked for FCI since 1988 and have seen technological breakthroughs firsthand. We started with a binder of Standard Interfactor Procedures and later the CHIEF system and FACT system. Education Courses were sent in a binder by mail. Our communication was done with the old Teletext system … imagine that! What I love the most is the international flavour of the work and assisting newcomers to FCI to navigate the FCI world.

Do you have any pets? If so, what and what is/are their name/s

We have a White Swiss Shepherd named Cloud. He is 5 years old & such a goofball that he is nicknamed Clown. We also have a tortoiseshell calico cat named Fara, 6 years old, and she is the boss of the house. We are just staff & Cloud is her guard dog

Do you have any hobbies?

We do tracking training with the dog on Sundays. Other hobbies are running & reading.

What is your drink of choice?

Usually a white wine, but if you want to see me smile, give me a Margherita.

You have a table of 5 for dinner. Who would you invite, passed or living?

My Mom & Dad (passed), Bruce Springsteen, my husband and me, of course

Who is your hero?

My hero was my mother. She was the type who always loved having kids running around the house. We were 5, but our friends were also welcome so it could be a house-full. When my uncle’s wife left, and he was in the Navy stationed at the South Pole, his 2 children lived with us for 3 years. This is in addition to the 4 kids in the house. My Mom taught me the value of truthfulness & honesty. She could be counted on to help anyone in trouble

We want to thank Teresa for letting us get to know her a little more. Next week we will interview more of our Secretariat, so stay tuned!