From wool monitor to department manager

Preben Schmidt, 47, department manager for Production, has been with Rockwool since 1983. His background is as a commercial vehicle mechanic.

“I have the best job in the world - it’s as simple as that." - Preben, 47, department manager for Production

“I have the best job in the world - it’s as simple as that. Since I started as a wool monitor in the mid-1980s, I have been involved in countless exciting tasks. I am now part of the Vamdrup management group and have day-to-day responsibility for a department of over 100 employees. It’s safe to say that I’ve done a little of everything, but in fact this is very typical of the working day in a workplace that has always developed rapidly and has therefore always been compelled to challenge its employees and make them think innovatively and creatively. Rockwool gives opportunities to those employees with the ability and desire to take them, which is equally motivating.” 

 

Influence and decisions that have results

“I originally started on an hourly wage, and in 1989 I was appointed production manager. In 1996, I moved to the pre-assembly department, and in 2004 I became department manager there, before stepping up to the position of department manager for both warehouse and pre-assembly two years later. Last year, I reached the high point of my career to date when I was appointed as the department manager for production. My own career trajectory is a good example of the opportunities for Rockwool employees if they are prepared to put in the effort. I am the first to admit that I’ve come a long way from my training to being responsible for budgets, compliance with environmental key figures and the ongoing development of an entire department of employees who are already skilled. But this is the charm of working for a successful company like Rockwool. Plus, the company has certain visions, e.g. regarding the environment, that allow me to puff out my chest a bit more when I talk about my work in social situations.”

 

“I am a practical person and love to see tangible results. For this reason I enjoy being involved in decision-making – particularly because I can quickly see the impact on the real world. I switch between organisational and technical operational tasks, and this gives me plenty of opportunities to set out my ideas and thoughts as to how our factory at Vamdrup should develop. I am familiar enough with the company to know that I have a very good idea as to what works – and what is necessary. And even if we can easily disagree from one department or technology to the next, I greatly value the positive tone, the many grins, the mutual respect and our shared desire to create the best solutions.”

 

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