Trainees in Switzerland

BEN VAN OS, SWITZERLAND

Why did you choose to work in roofing?

I grew up admiring my father who works in the roofing industry. He has been a role model to me and always involved me in his work. Hence, my interest in the roofing industry was developed and I already had an increased knowledge in this field. This caused my motivation to expand my capacity in this particular sector.
Even though I am very interested in my father’s work, I was convinced that I needed to step out of my comfort zone and choose a different path to grow and learn about roofing via Sika.   

Why Sika?

Since my father and grandfather are roof applicators and have worked with Sika for a long period of time, I have known Sika for quite some time.
I was attracted by Sika because it is a very successful international business. Sika is known as the “Rolls-Royce” of roofing systems, so in my opinion there was no better place to go.
My research has also shown me that Sika received the award of “best recruiter in Switzerland”. This particular factor shows that the work, and in my case also the learning environment, are very good.
When I got the opportunity to work for EMEA roofing in Zurich, Switzerland, I took it with both hands.

How do you like working for Sika so far?

It has been an exciting journey from the beginning. I could not have imagined such a great integration into such an international corporation.
I have been given many responsibilities and tasks that support the team I am working with. This really gives me the feeling that I am a valuable contribution and part of the team.
During my interview my manager told me: “Ben, I do not like the image of competition swimmers because they only know their performance at the end of their race and miss many interpretations on the way, so how can they improve!?”
With this example he offered that his door is always open to ask questions during the race - without asking questions you are not able to improve.
Overall, I love my work at Sika and that is why I have asked to extend the period of my traineeship by an additional 6 months.

What do you expect from this experience?

My background is in business studies, but I would like to expand my knowledge in the roofing sector.
At the end of this journey as a trainee at Sika, I would like to have developed specialized knowledge of the roofing sector.
I would like to understand and learn how to work with different cultures and structures, and also develop my strategic decision making skills.

What are your plans for the future?

Having now successfully completed my traineeship, Sika has offered me a full time job as Market Development for System Selling Roofing EMEA.
I am honoured to be offered this position and I cannot wait to develop myself further within the Sika Roofing EMEA team.