PLEASE TELL US A LITTLE ABOUT YOUR BACKGROUND AND EXPERIENCE.
My technical background is rooted in chemistry, physics, as well as plastics and environmental engineering. I gained my first professional experience in environmental and project management before and during my studies, working for a leading Austrian aerospace supplier.
After completing my degree and spending a brief period in academic research, I quickly moved into the manufacturing industry – specifically, the glass industry. I started in the R&D department of an internationally active company and later had the opportunity to take on global leadership in that area.
Alongside a part-time MBA program, I transitioned internally into operations. In my most recent role as Operations Manager, I was responsible for running a plant with around 400 employees and 24/7/365 production. The responsibilities were broad, with a strong focus on increasing efficiency and performance, as well as advancing automation and digitalization. At the same time, employee retention and satisfaction were also key priorities.
I am really looking forward to applying my experience at PAYER and actively contributing to the company’s ongoing development.
WHAT ATTRACTED YOU TO THE POSITION AND TO PAYER AS A COMPANY?
What immediately appealed to me about PAYER were the exciting products, as well as the strong spirit of innovation and clear entrepreneurial drive that I could feel right from the start. What I find particularly interesting about my position – beyond the challenge of entering a new industry – is the diverse and international scope of responsibilities, which also includes both engineering and supply chain management. I find the opportunity to actively help shape the company’s future highly motivating.
IN YOUR OPINION, WHAT ARE THE MOST SIGNIFICANT OPPORTUNITIES FOR ENHANCING EFFICIENCY IN MODERN PRODUCTION PROCESSES?
In today’s world, I see flexibility in production and production systems as one of the most critical – if not the most critical – factors for long-term success. On the one hand, the ability to manufacture products flexibly across different systems helps to ensure optimal capacity utilization. On the other hand, being able to respond quickly and efficiently to changing demands is absolutely essential.
From a technical perspective, digitalization is another key factor. Especially with highly automated systems, we now have the ability to collect, analyze, and evaluate an almost unlimited amount of data. This provides a solid basis for continuously improving and enhancing the efficiency of production processes.
WHICH PRINCIPLES ARE ESPECIALLY IMPORTANT TO YOU WHEN WORKING IN TEAMS?
Much of what I value in teamwork can be summed up under the idea of open communication. A constructive and trusting environment – where ideas can be shared freely and even critical or sensitive topics can be addressed—is essential to me. Equally important is a clear and transparent communication of shared goals, which helps to create alignment and focus.
Another core value for me is individual responsibility. I greatly appreciate it when team members take full ownership of their area of responsibility and demonstrate a commitment to achieving our common goals.
HOW DO YOU LIKE TO SPEND YOUR FREE TIME AND WHERE DO YOU ACQUIRE YOUR ENERGY FOR WORK?
I like spending time in nature – whether in the forest or the mountains – and I really enjoy being active outdoors. Running, hiking, climbing, or any kind of physical activity in the fresh air is part of my routine. A recent spontaneous kayaking trip on the Kainach River with some colleagues confirmed that I am definitely not the only one with that passion here at PAYER.
MOTTO
There is no such thing as “can’t” – in the most positive sense, of course.
