Melanie Kiesel reports

In tune like an orchestra

After finishing my degree in industrial engineering, I came to SEW-EURODRIVE in late 2005 to work on my thesis. Because of my positive experiences, I also decided to start working there, and have been a member of the big SEW-EURODRIVE family for some years now.

Initially, I worked on various development projects as a development controller, and assisted technical project management with scheduling and project controlling. From the beginning on, this gave me insight into the various development departments and divisions of the company, as well as all the activities necessary to technically implement a product idea, set up the production equipment and launch the product on the global market. I was gradually given more responsibility and larger projects, and, as a development project manager, I've now also gained familiarity with project management for development projects.

Participating in the two-year Young Potential Program. Along with "young potentials" from other departments, I completed a comprehensive, targeted training program, gained insight into previously foreign areas of the company and further expanded my internal network.

At the moment, for example, I'm heading up a larger project in the Mechatronics department – adding a new motor series to our DR modular motor system. To make a long story short, my job is to ensure that the scheduling, cost and quality objectives are met. In addition to scheduling, budgeting and project reporting, I'm also responsible for coordination and control of the overall project, including the development departments and production plants involved, as well as Purchasing, Quality, TestCenter, Calculation, Order Processing/IT, Product Market Management and Service. I make sure that the project team members have all the necessary information so that the baton always stays in motion and gets handed off at the right time. At the same time, I have to identify, discuss and resolve conflicting objectives, analyze any problems that come up, take measures and always keep the next steps required in mind.

Figuratively, my work can be compared to that of a conductor: I conduct an orchestra consisting of various instruments and tunes. If we all keep the rhythm, hit the right notes and really give it all we've got, the end result is a harmonic, rousing symphony.

All in all, I have a very exciting and diverse range of tasks that leaves no room for boredom.