What excites you about working for Siemens Schweiz AG

First of all, it is very motivating to work for a company with over 160 years of history and such a vast amount of inventions. Siemens is a company built on a strong fundament and we are proud to be one of the world's largest producers of energy-efficient, resource-saving technologies. Personally, I also like the international presence and the cultural mix of people you are working with.

What does your organization currently do to contribute towards the corporate social responsibility?

Our strategy within Siemens is geared towards four global megatrends – demographic change, urbanization, climate change and globalization – and their effects on society and our business. Corporate governance based on the principles of sustainability forms an integral part of what we understand by profitable and successful entrepreneurship.

This is reflected in the Siemens Environmental Portfolio, where the company is already a global leader. Our commitment to sustainable development is clearly evident in our expertise in ” green”? solutions. Independent organizations have acknowledged the extent to which we factor sustainability into everything we do. For many years, Siemens has held a leading position in both the Dow Jones Sustainability Index (DJSI) and the CDP (Carbon Disclosure Project).

Within Procurement we further expect suppliers to comply with and implement their commitment to the standards and principles specified in our Code of Conduct. With respect to issues of human rights, labor standards, environmental protection and anti-corruption initiatives, the Code of Conduct for Siemens’ suppliers and third party intermediaries is essentially based on the principles of the UN Global Compact. Acceptance and implementation of the Code of Conduct is a basic requirement in order to do business with us.

As someone who has had over 16 years’ experience within the Swiss market-place, how have you found the Swiss market & working environment has changed over these years?

I believe the Swiss market place has become more efficient, more international and more agile over the years. Especially since the financial crisis, Switzerland has been challenged with currency exchange rates and the constant high productivity demand. Agility and willingness to change and adopt have become prerequisites to be successful. However, I am not sure if we have seen the full impact on the market yet. The immigration of international talents on the other hand has helped us to maintain a high living standard but it has also challenged the job market in regards to competition.

If you could go back and give your younger (graduate) self some career advice, what would it be?

I would recommend them to gain international experience at an early stage. It does not even matter whether it is a work experience or educational studies. It just provides them with a different perspective and cultural exposure. This is becoming more and more essential in a globalised world.

As your first degree was a Mechanical Engineering what would have been your second choice and why?

I always had affection for figures so Finance would be my second choice. As an entrepreneur you always need to have a good understanding of the full picture and that includes the figures. Whenever I act I always assess the financial impact or benefit of the action to assure it makes sense from an entrepreneurial point of view 

What makes you relax from working in such a pressured role?

I am addicted to sport so I like swimming, mountain biking or working out in the gym. Depending on the season I vary on my preference. Furthermore, I love photography to express creativity.  It fulfills me with pleasure to capture a moment of time in a nice photograph.  

What would you say is the most rewarding part of your role?

The most rewarding part of my role is to work with a motivated team towards a common goal and to support them developing their personal career. I further enjoy working internationally and with different cultures. Working with different cultures has truly expanded my horizon and I enjoyed spending four years working the United States. 

What do you love most about your current role?

In Procurement you interface with most functions within a company and every action always has bottom line impact. You constantly implement strategies that ensure the best possible value for money is obtained when doing the purchase.

What recruitment challenges do you face?

I am glad I have a very low churn rate right now. Good people in Supply Chain are hard to find especially since companies have realised the added value of it. I see an increasing demand in this area which makes me concerned about future shortages in the talent pool. But in general it’s a challenge to find the right balance between good technical and commercial skill sets.

What was the worst/best interview experience you ever had?

Well, I cannot really say I ever had a very bad interview experience but I have learnt to focus more on the ” individual contribution”? the candidates have performed in their previous jobs. On the other hand, I already have a lot of good interview experiences. For example, candidates that come well prepared and quickly connect the dots. They ask the right questions and get a good feel for the job.   

What advice would you give to future aspiring leaders, and why?

First of all, the only definition of a leader is someone who has followers. That already sets the tone but typically, managers manage things and leaders lead people. This is the first prerequisite beside three main things to focus on: Be a strong performer in what you do, make sure you are visible within the organisation and build up a strong network.

Who was your most admired person in your childhood and why?

Good question, I guess it was Batman or Spiderman. Two heroes with the same goal to make the world a better and safer place. 

Who is your most inspirational person in business and why?

I like Nick Hayek, the CEO of Swatch. It is inspirational to see a CEO that does not let himself be influenced by analysts and short term interests. Yes, he is for sure egocentric but always makes his decisions based on long term perspectives. We need entrepreneurs with such qualities in top companies.

If you could choose an Artistic, Musical or Sporting career, what would it be and why?

I would love to be a photographer like Herb Ritts. He was an amazing black and white photographer and whenever I look at his pictures there is so much vitality and expression in it.

*Views and opinions contained within our Executive Interviews are those of the Interviewee and not views shared by EMEA Recruitment.*