In August 2021, Dennis Risakotta joined Cordeo. What began as a temporary replacement in Sales has grown into a multifaceted role that goes far beyond his current titles of Account Manager and Consultant. With a background in graphic design, marketing, and communications, Dennis quickly found ways to put his knowledge and experience to use across multiple areas within the company.
From temporary support to key player
When Dennis first stepped in as a temporary replacement in Sales, it quickly became clear that he could contribute much more. Drawing on his experience in UI/UX design and marketing & communications, he explored Cordeo’s platform interface and supported with implementations and migrations. A key moment was his role in the transition from Cordeo Legacy to NG. “That was when I really learnt about the system and our clients,” he recalls.
The move towards Account Management
Although Dennis was delivering valuable operational work, he knew he wanted to shift more towards the customer side. Not just running implementations or building templates, but engaging in conversations, listening, and thinking along. “That’s where I can add value: by understanding what customers need and seeing how Cordeo can respond to that.” Today, he combines both roles: balancing the two is sometimes challenging, but above all, energising.
No two days alike
For Dennis, an “average” workday doesn’t really exist. Some days he guides a new implementation from start to finish, coordinating every detail with the client. Other days are centered around meetings and evaluations. Recently, he has dedicated a lot of time to annual customer reviews. “That had been overlooked in recent years. Now I see how valuable it is to look back together and plan ahead. It often brings new insights or follow-up work.”
Proactive rather than reactive
Dennis stresses the importance of initiating conversations with customers. “We regularly add new features, but not everyone might be aware of it. Sending a newsletter alone isn’t enough: you need to have the conversation and show what’s possible. That’s where you can really add value and make sure customers get the most out of the platform.”
Why Cordeo stands out
For Dennis, the culture of appreciation makes all the difference. After years in advertising agencies, where hard work often went unnoticed, he found exactly what he was looking for at Cordeo: recognition, balance, and freedom. “I don’t need a pat on the back every day, but it’s great to feel that your ideas are heard, and that they are actually being applied. That makes it not feel like ‘just a job.’”
He also values the trust and independence: “How you shape your role is up to you, as long as the results are there. That freedom is motivating.”
Personal and creative
Outside of work, Dennis finds peace in nature. Walking in the forest helps him recharge and creates space for creativity. He also likes to play and produce music. At home, he recognises a lot of his own traits in his daughters: humor, perspective, calmness, and sometimes surprising sharpness. “They can come out with such witty remarks that I burst out laughing,” he says proudly.
Did you know…
Dennis (recently) got a tattoo that symbolises both his Dutch and Moluccan roots?
Humor, loyalty, and creativity are core values for him?
His favorite song is Somewhere Only We Know by Keane?
Need some advice about brand management?