Starter Story Roan Funcken
Create your own job satisfaction
Since January 1, 2025, Roan Funcken (35) has been the owner of the men's clothing store where he had his own wedding suit made to measure years ago. If someone had told him then that he would one day MILL Tailoring He would have thought he was crazy if he were to take over and run a business in the heart of Valkenburg. Roan is making a remarkable career change: from chemical analyst to tailor-made magician. He proves he's a natural fit for fashion and entrepreneurship, for which he also receives tailoring advice from the StartersCentrum Limburg.
Roan's career begins predictably, to a certain extent. He neatly completes his HBO (higher professional education) degree in Chemistry in four years, then works for several years as an analyst and lab technician at two different companies. He walks around daily in a white coat and lab goggles, but after seven or eight years of lab work, Roan heads towards "bore out." A serious moment of reflection follows, a confronting experience that sets him on a different path.
Roan is making an unusual career change. Guided by the question "What gives me energy?" he recalls his time at The Basement van Berden, where he had a part-time job as a sales associate alongside his graduation internship at DSM. He seems to have a knack for clothing combinations, in-store presentation, and customer service. "It was a great time, but I didn't want to go back to Berden. I was looking for more challenge and depth, something that better suited my passion for technology." "Perhaps the suit scene is for me," he thought aloud.
His move into fashion is a combination of brains and guts. Just as Roan "dropped the bombshell" at his last lab employer, telling him he wanted to work part-time, a part-time position opened up at Suitsupply in Maastricht. These days, he pays attention to these kinds of signals, which he sees as positive signs for his new career. His manager, Stephan, is extremely understanding; Roan drops from 40 to 20 hours a week so he can pursue his passion. At Suitsupply, he quickly finds his feet, feels at home, and thrives. "Even if I was running around the store from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., I'd be whistling all the way back to the station. It's bizarre what job satisfaction does to you, and that I was able to experience that."
For a year, he worked 50/50 in two jobs, but the fashion industry left him wanting more. Roan consulted with his very supportive wife, Sanne, and chose to work full-time for Suitsupply. "I thought, if I don't do it now, I might never do it again. Change is often harder to achieve as you get older. And if I fall flat on my face, I can always go back to the lab." His drive is strong and quickly leads to more roles: he starts giving training courses and has the potential to become an expert.
Just before switching to Suitsupply, Roan discovered Mill Tailoring, where he had his own wedding suit custom-made. He immediately clicked with the owner, Millanie. They stayed in touch and shared a passion for suits and the craft. Eventually, these conversations became more serious. But the time wasn't yet ripe for Roan to become an entrepreneur.
In August 2024, he finally knocked on the door of the StartersCentrum. "I wanted expert advice, so I started Googling. The StartersCentrum was close by, free, and I could get personalized advice. My advisor, Anita Lussenburg, hadn't handled many acquisitions yet. She was immediately enthusiastic, researched everything, advised me to request annual figures, investigate existing customer base, talk to suppliers, and so on. She also had good tips about transitioning from employment to entrepreneurship. When an acquisition price was agreed upon, we started calculating. Everything was double-checked by an accountant. I was willing to work my ass off, but it had to be profitable."
It felt best for both parties to take over the business completely. Roan then worked in the business for a few months. The transition went incredibly smoothly, and a good bond developed with the owner and the team. "And then you're suddenly an entrepreneur—it's bizarre, actually, surreal. But it's true, the business is thriving. I've found myself in a comfortable situation, until July." (2025, the interview was held in 2025) My schedule is absolutely packed. It was such a unique opportunity, I simply couldn't pass it up. I want to continue and expand on what Millanie has established here with everything I have.
Roan is increasingly doing things his own way and now utilizes both his technical and soft skills. He's created a traditional living-room atmosphere in the shop. He takes his time with the men who come, both entrepreneurs and grooms. "Grooms come with a whole entourage for the first time, but for the fitting, they come alone. It leads to wonderful and intimate conversations, and you build a bond. Much more enjoyable than worrying about KPIs, turnover, and time management. If I may offer a piece of advice: if you're unhappy at work, don't stay put. Follow your gut and don't wait for an invitation; create your own happiness at work."
Interview by Nicole Pol- Sprookjesvrouw
Photos by Lonneke Maas fotografie
Guidance by business advisor Anita Lussenburg
