Chropynska is people – Miroslava

• 12. September, 2024
• Lucia Mikušová
• Chropynska is people

Our colleague Mirka started working with us while she was still studying. Over time, she went through various positions in our company, gaining valuable experience that she can leverage in her work. In this interview, she revealed what her job entails and how she manages to cope with challenging periods and unwind.

Miroslava – Head of Purchasing

You have a degree in Economics and Management. Why did you choose this field?

I chose to study Economics and Management because of its broad applicability. At the time I was considering my choice of university, I was not yet convinced of what I wanted to do in life, so I chose a field that would open up many opportunities for me.

Why did you decide on a career in engineering after your studies, and how do you remember your beginnings in the company?

I initially worked at Chropynska Slovakia as the director’s assistant, thinking it would only be a temporary job given my field of study. Over time, as I moved to different positions and came into more contact with production and manufacturing documentation, I realized that I really enjoy working in engineering.

You returned to work in January this year after parental leave. How has the company changed over the past few years?

At first, I felt like I had returned to a different company. A lot has changed here in recent years. The company has grown in terms of both staff and turnover, process changes have been implemented, new departments have been created, the company has been modernized, the building has undergone renovation, and the customer portfolio has expanded.

Can you describe your career progression at Chropynska Slovakia?

I have been working at the company since 2008. I started while still studying at university as the director’s assistant. Later, I moved to the position of purchasing officer, and after the acquisition of the company by Chropynska Engineering and the creation of the Engineering division, I transitioned to the position of sales officer and project support. I worked there until I went on maternity leave.

What is your current role?

I am currently the head of the purchasing department. My job involves managing the department both in terms of processes and personnel. I negotiate with suppliers about prices, delivery times, quality, and logistics. I participate in preparing materials for purchased components for customer quotations. The topic I am currently most focused on is the company’s transition to a new ERP system.

What challenges do you face in your work?

Returning to work after maternity leave was a major challenge for me, which is also related to the nature of the company’s production. Since we are not in serial production but rather custom manufacturing, purchasing requirements are constantly changing, and there is increasing pressure to reduce costs.

What does a typical day look like for you?

This job is interesting because every day brings new challenges, so a typical day doesn’t really exist. Each project is different, and rarely does anything repeat itself, which means that the purchasing requirements are constantly changing. In addition, this period is more hectic as we are preparing to transition to a new information system.

How do you evaluate the working environment and the team you work with?

On a workday, we spend more time with our colleagues than at home with our families, so having good relationships is essential for me. I am very grateful for the colleagues I have around me, as they help me feel comfortable here. I also rate the work environment positively; the company has modernized a lot in recent years, so the workplace is pleasant.

Where do you see Chropynska in 5 years?

I see Chropynska as a stable company that has managed to survive recessions in the industry, so I firmly believe it will remain stable in the future, continuing to be a reliable partner for its customers and a source of security for its employees.

How do you spend your free time?

I spend most of my time outside of work with my family, which is my top priority. If I find a bit of free time during the week, I enjoy going for a run. Running helps me handle tougher times more easily because it allows me to relax. In the past two years, I had the opportunity to participate in the national relay race VOLVO RUN, where we ran from Košice to Bratislava. Out of 525 km, I ran 45 km in two days with minimal sleep, in a relay with 11 other women. This experience, apart from being an adventure, taught me a lot, as it made me understand what true teamwork is. A common goal brings together completely unfamiliar people, creating such a bond that, thanks to mutual support, they reach the finish line and achieve incredible performances, pushing themselves to the limits of their abilities. This is also an inspiration for me in my professional life.

What advice would you give to young people considering a career in engineering or studying at technical schools?

Robotics and automation are no longer just the future; they are already becoming a reality, which is why, in my opinion, studying in the field of engineering has great prospects for the future.