Meet the Team: Elke Vande Bergh, Trim Trade & Account Manager

Meet Elke, Lead of our Trim Trade Operations

After training the past year under her predecessor, Elke Vande Bergh has been officially appointed to lead Federal Eco Foam's trim foam buying and selling operations.

Her primary focus is ensuring a steady supply of materials for FEF's rebond foam production in Belgium while also managing raw material sales. She works closely with suppliers and customers, overseeing material availability, inventory levels and the ever-changing landscape of waste legislation to help keep FEF ahead of the curve.

As she explains, “FEF doesn't export waste—our materials are recycled into high-quality products, like carpet underlay, ensuring we're part of the circular economy. It's all about educating people on our process and providing proper documentation to show how our raw materials are given a second life by keeping them out of landfills or from being burned.”

Supporting Sustainability & Growth at Federal Eco Foam

For 50+ years, Federal Eco Foam has recycled polyurethane foam and given it new life in the form of rebond foam. But the company's roots began before its rebond foam manufacturing facility opened in 1972 with the buying and selling of polyurethane trim foam.

To this day, trim trading and procurement activities remain an essential part of company operations, sourcing product from select suppliers across the world and exporting material to Europe, the United States and Australia. Elke plays a vital role in the company's mission to champion a world without waste by working with around 150 suppliers in a mix of markets to recycle materials such as used mattresses, post-consumer trim foam or foam scrap from large foamers or converters.

From coordinating delivery schedules, working with the internal warehousing team, to optimizing packaging, Elke wears many different hats to support the organization.

Elke (at right) working with colleagues in the warehouse and assessing inventory levels of recycled polyurethane foam.

“Sustainability is not just a buzzword but a core value of FEF,” Elke says. “I work closely with my internal colleagues on inventory levels and best practices for inbound and outbound shipping so we save on transportation costs and help lower overall emissions.”

In the future, Elke's role will expand with more account management responsibilities. There are opportunities to centrally manage and grow closed loop recycling opportunities within the supply and customer bases, which in some cases overlap. And though Elke is currently handling the workload on her own, she is excited to grow her team in the future and support FEF's continued success.

Elke's Journey to the Company

With a degree in marketing and business management, Elke started her career in distribution and then transitioned to corporate purchasing plastics used in food packaging and automotive applications, among many others.

Growing up in Lommel, Elke was familiar with FEF due to the company's good reputation in the local community and the notoriety of its global impact in the sports category. When she saw the position opening at FEF, Elke was excited about the possibility of taking her skills to such a great company that was close to home.

“Upon interviewing, I experienced FEF's team-oriented, welcoming culture,” Elke says. “I saw an opportunity to grow and make an immediate impact, and that there was a trust in me to eventually assume leadership of the function.”

A Role with Rewards & Challenges

Elke's background in procurement and supply chain management has equipped her with the skills needed to thrive in her current role. Every day is dynamic, requiring a hands-on approach and staying on top of key details. As she puts it, "The plan is in your mind, and you are aware of what's going on."

Elke describes the company culture at FEF as supportive and open. For Elke, having a team that is approachable and always willing to lend a hand makes a huge difference in her work experience.

“Management takes the time to mentor, which is something I really appreciate. It helps me feel supported and confident in my role,” Elke shares.

The company's flexibility and fluid approach, especially in a smaller team, provide Elke with the variety she enjoys. There's always room to grow and take on new challenges.

Elke's biggest challenge has been getting to know the market. The trim trade industry is complex, with various interpretations and ever-changing trends. But Elke has tackled this challenge head-on, using her training with Nanneke and her conversations with suppliers and customers to gain valuable insights.

One defining moment in her journey was a project where she mapped out all the suppliers and customers. This project, which is still in progress, has helped Elke visualize the opportunities and possibilities in the market, giving her a foundation to build on.

A Personal Connection

Outside of work, Elke has a range of hobbies that keep her active and engaged. She speaks five languages, including Dutch, English, French, German, and basic Spanish, which allows her to connect with a wide range of people. She also enjoys staying active by going to the gym.

Elke is also passionate about board games and has a growing collection. Some of her favorite games include Scythe , Brass Birmingham , and Wingspan . She enjoys the social aspect of playing games and loves the competitive nature of it—always in it to win, and never cheating!

Why Join Federal Eco Foam?

For anyone considering a career at FEF, Elke has this advice: “It's a great place to work with amazing colleagues. We have a strong team, and we all work well together. FEF is well-recognized in the Lommel community, and I'm proud to work for a company that has such a positive reputation. The culture, the opportunity for growth, and the supportive atmosphere make FEF a fantastic place to build a career.”