Personal stories
Ward, Demand Chain Engineer
Ward Schiffelers
Position: Demand Chain Engineer, since May 2004
Education: Mechanical engineering, Eindhoven University of Technology
Fast selection procedure
'I was first introduced to SABIC during the enterprise days in Eindhoven. I sent an open application which was followed up by three selection interviews. Each time, I only had to wait a couple of days to hear whether I had proceeded to the next round. They took me on in no time at all.'
Why SABIC?
'Many jobs at SABIC are technology-related, which is something I love. The informal corporate structure also appeals to me very much. The lines are short and the organizational structure is flat. And of course, the excellent fringe benefits are a nice bonus too!'
Step-by-step
'SABIC assesses you regularly. Our Management Development program has been set up in a very specific and to-the-point manner. Every three years they look at how you are doing and where your ambitions lie. The intention is for you to take a new step in your career every three to five years.'
Weekly lectures
'I'm presently attending an international APICS training course for stock control and production management. I follow lectures each week, partly during business hours and partly in my own time. I've already attended a basic management course, and the middle management course is on the agenda. Plenty of opportunities.'
Been abroad yet?
'SABIC has logistic centers in Spain, Italy, Great Britain, Belgium and Sweden. I visited those recently to improve the operational activities via the SAP system and to train people how to use the system. I've also visited a Swiss hauler to negotiate a long-term contract.'
Dynamic business
'There are plans to significantly expand our production and import capacity over the next years: SABIC is growing fast. That makes our business very dynamic. Work is always changing which makes it fun.'
