Responsibilities as a Strategic Purchaser

As a strategic purchaser, I am responsible for the company's long-term procurement planning in a defined area. My tasks include identifying and developing suppliers, negotiating contracts, and ensuring cost-efficient and reliable supply chains. I analyze market trends and evaluate supplier performance to guarantee the quality and timeliness of deliveries.

My Journey to ProXES

My journey to ProXES began after graduating from high school in 2019, when I started an apprenticeship as an industrial management assistant at Stephan Machinery. With the support of ProXES, I was able to shorten my apprenticeship to two years, completing it in 2021. 

Even during my apprenticeship, I realized that purchasing was the right field for me. After finishing my training, I was provided the opportunity to join Stephan Machinery as a purchaser. In May 2024, I was promoted to strategic purchaser.

Education and Development

During my apprenticeship, I developed the desire to pursue a part-time bachelor's degree in Business Administration. ProXES made this possible for me at the University of Applied Sciences Weserbergland and has been financing my studies.

Getting to know all areas of Stephan Machinery during my apprenticeship has been a great advantage. I now understand the entire process, from incoming orders to outgoing goods.

Challenges and Achievements

One of the biggest challenges in my role is solving unforeseen problems, such as procuring urgently needed parts to ensure the timely delivery of a machine.

Balancing work and study is another challenge. As a result, my private life often takes a back seat. However, with determination and effective time management, I manage to keep everything on track.

I am particularly proud of my promotion to strategic purchaser in May 2024 — a significant achievement at my age.

What I Enjoy About ProXES

What I especially enjoy about working at ProXES is the variety and constant learning opportunities. It never gets boring, as our product range and the company itself are incredibly interesting.

I also appreciate the excellent collaboration with my colleagues, which makes work enjoyable and motivating.

Personal Growth and Support from ProXES

My time at ProXES has shaped me profoundly, helping me become more self-confident. The daily challenges have enhanced my skills and given me a sense of security.

ProXES has supported me greatly by enabling me to shorten my training and by financing my part-time studies.

Future Goals

Looking ahead, I aim to continue growing professionally and gaining more experience at ProXES. I want to take on larger projects and embrace new challenges.

Advice for New Employees

Take the time to explore all areas of the company. This will give you a better understanding of the processes and help you connect with your colleagues.

Conclusion

In conclusion, I can confidently say that my career at ProXES is never boring. The work is truly enjoyable, and the company, markets, and products are fascinating.

My Career at ProXES: Challenges, Growth, and Motivation

Training young talent is particularly close to my heart. In our team, we mentor apprentices who spend four years learning the trade of "design engineer."

Our department is responsible for planning the machines we build and creating the necessary mechanical and electrical documentation and specifications. The work is diverse, presenting new challenges and opportunities for growth every day.

My Path to ProXES and Key Career Milestones

My journey at ProXES began in 2017 when I joined the company as a design engineer after earning my degree in mechanical engineering and gaining several years of experience in design. Shortly thereafter, the position of Head of Design Engineering became available, and I seized the opportunity to apply. Being accepted for this role was my first major career milestone at ProXES and a moment of great significance to me.

I had long aspired to lead a team and support people in their development. In June 2024, my role was further expanded, and I became Head of Engineering. These steps mean a lot to me as they reflect the trust placed in me and allow me to reach my full potential.

Key Projects and Achievements

Transitioning to the role of Head of Design Engineering was both a significant challenge and one of my greatest successes. My first leadership role required a complete reorganization of how I approached my work. Initially, I attempted to manage everything as I had before, which quickly became overwhelming. I soon realized I needed support and engaged a coach to help me develop my leadership skills and refine my approach.

One of my top priorities is developing my team members. Seeing their growth and progress over time is a key measure of success for me.

Another major achievement has been my involvement in implementing technical systems such as Product Lifecycle Management (PLM), a digital spare parts catalog, and a sales configurator. These projects were not only technically challenging, but also opportunities to deepen my expertise and enhance our team's efficiency.

Lessons Learned at ProXES

Over the past few years, I have primarily focused on developing my leadership skills. I have learned to think in terms of processes and systems and to step back from day-to-day tasks to gain a broader perspective.

For every task, I now ask myself who the "customer" is — not in the traditional sales sense, but who will benefit from the service our department provides. This perspective enables me to better support both my team and the company as a whole.

What I Value Most About ProXES

I particularly appreciate the flexibility ProXES offers. I can contribute my ideas, and if they make sense, they are implemented in a pragmatic and straightforward way. The openness and collaborative atmosphere are equally important to me. Everyone is willing to help, and there's a strong sense of teamwork throughout the company.

Personal Growth Through ProXES

My time at ProXES has been incredibly beneficial for my personal development. I now read more technical literature, stay up-to-date with industry trends, and have cultivated an entrepreneurial mindset. When faced with a task, my first thought is always about where it is best placed. I have also become a better listener, whether it's within the company or in external interactions.

Support and Encouragement at ProXES

I have always received the support I needed, whether through leadership training, coaching, or professional development opportunities. This consistent support has given me the confidence to grow and evolve continuously.

My Journey at ProXES

I joined ProXES in 2018 as a food technologist, drawn by the fascinating tasks and innovative products. After two and a half years, I transitioned to the Application division, initially as a specialist and later as a manager. Since spring 2024, I have been leading the newly established group-wide Application department. I am particularly proud of our contributions to the aseptic process line and the introduction of new processes now utilized across the company.

Challenges and Achievements

Challenges like managing large industrial projects and navigating the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic have tested me. Taking on a leadership role at a relatively young age presented a steep learning curve, but my openness to seeking advice and support helped me overcome these hurdles.

A standout achievement for me has been the successful transformation of our department into a group-wide function, enhancing collaboration and streamlining processes across ProXES.

Corporate Culture and Work Environment

What I find inspiring about ProXES is its open corporate culture. Communication is seamless across all levels of hierarchy, and employees are encouraged to contribute ideas and suggestions. Constructive feedback is welcomed, and I feel empowered to make a meaningful impact.

Personal Development and Growth

My time at ProXES has fostered my independence, particularly through customer visits in remote areas. Taking on a leadership role has also significantly contributed to my personal growth.

The trust and support of my superiors and management have been invaluable. Whenever I set a goal, I was provided with the necessary resources, frameworks, or training to achieve it.

Future and Goals

Looking ahead, I aim to further expand my department's capabilities and establish it as a strategic business partner beyond its current support function. This involves identifying trends early and proactively implementing them to stay ahead in the market.

My advice to new employees: Don’t hesitate to ask questions or share ideas. At ProXES, you’ll always find a supportive environment where initiatives are encouraged and valued.

Conclusion and Personal Insights

What motivates me daily is working with my colleagues, the international scope of our business, and the chance to make a real impact. I enjoy improving processes and knowing that my work leaves a lasting footprint.

My Role at ProXES

My role focuses on coordinating and driving the service business and strategy across the region. I work to identify synergies and enhance team effectiveness, ensuring we deliver exceptional service to our customers.

I joined ProXES in January 2019 as a Customer Service Manager for Terlet in the Netherlands. Later that year, Terlet's production facility closed and was integrated into our Hameln site, marking the beginning of ProXES Benelux. My position continued as Customer Service Manager, with a focus on Stephan Machinery and Terlet for the local market, while also supporting the global service needs for Terlet's worldwide installed base. Since September 2023, I have been serving as the Service Director for our European subsidiaries.

Challenges and Achievements

One of the key milestones in my career was the transformation of Terlet into ProXES Benelux. It felt like launching a startup as we transitioned from a full production facility to a smaller sales and service office. This change required a complete shift in focus, team structure, and mindset.

A significant challenge during this period was restructuring after Terlet's closure. Many colleagues left, and we had to pivot to represent other ProXES brands while building and strengthening our service team. Launching ProXES Benelux within an established international group, navigating its own internal changes felt like building a new company from the ground up.

Today, ProXES has grown into a globally recognized name, and our customers know they can rely on us. I attribute this success to maintaining strong personal relationships and consistently striving to add value in every interaction.

On an operational level, I particularly enjoy working with the team on major retrofit projects. Upgrading existing machinery to state-of-the-art standards and extending their lifespan by 15 years or more is both challenging and rewarding.

Corporate Culture and Work Environment

What I love about working at ProXES is the dynamic and energetic nature of the service organization. Every day presents new challenges, requiring innovative and creative problem-solving.

The flat hierarchies are a significant advantage. Everyone treats one another with respect and equality, fostering a collaborative and supportive atmosphere. I appreciate the openness to feedback and the ability to discuss both successes and challenges constructively.

Personal Development and Growth

My time at ProXES has taught me the importance of staying focused during times of change and adopting a broader perspective. Open communication within the team is vital to creating a sense of involvement and ownership, and I strive to foster this environment daily.

This approach has also enriched my personal life. For instance, I’ve led the development of a multi-functional sports park in my hometown, served as chairman of a local sports club, and contributed to various social initiatives.

The trust I received from management when I was promoted to Service Director has been instrumental in my professional growth. Their support gave me the confidence to embrace this new role and its challenges.

Future and Goals

Looking ahead, I aim to instill a stronger customer-centric mindset across all ProXES sites. Meeting our customers' needs and exceeding their expectations is the foundation of our success.

I encourage new employees to think creatively, embrace the ProXES family with its renowned brands, and always keep the customer in mind. At the same time, it's important to maintain a sense of humor, a healthy work-life balance, and to regularly reflect on one’s actions.

Conclusion and Personal Insights

What motivates me every day at ProXES is the dynamic environment, the continuous interaction with both internal colleagues and external customers, and the opportunity to support others in achieving success.

I value that ProXES allows everyone to be authentic, open, and genuinely enjoy their work. It's a unique and refreshing atmosphere that makes every day fulfilling.