Anthony Simpson

“At Continental, the drive for profits and excellent technology make a good match”

How long have you been employed at Continental?
1993

How did you start with the company?
My attention was directed to Continental in Germany in the early 1990s. For me, a position with this global corporation based in Hanover was a distinct possibility. Following initial talks, a decision was taken rather quickly to relocate from England to Germany with my family.

What is a typical work day like for you? Is there such a thing?
Because of the diversity of my activities, there’s never a dull moment at work. No two days are alike. Broadly speaking, in addition to running general audits and compliance inspections in central operations, and at subsidiaries, my department also looks into accusations of fraud and data security. The global scope of our activities allows us to get to know other cultures and people and to gain some insight into our numerous (high-tech) products.

Why should someone decide for Continental as an employer?
Continental is a very dynamic company. Its interesting product portfolio has spurred rapid growth in the last few years, giving it a very global make-up. Bureaucracy has been largely eliminated and flat hierarchies created.

Which skills and qualities are essential for a successful career at Continental?
Our employees have to be flexible and able to think in a structured manner. They should also possess the will to see things through and be capable of acting independently and making decisions.

How important is teamwork for you?
Teamwork is very important, of course—both within a department and between the various areas. My experience has taught me that being able to put yourself in the other person’s shoes is the key to good teamwork. You have to be able to listen and understand the problems of others. In this way, solutions can more easily and effectively be arrived at.

How do you envision your professional future at Continental?
My present field of activity is very interesting and provides a very good overview of the entire company. Operating activities cannot always provide this. In general I am very content, because new challenges constantly emerge. It's not entirely out of the question, though, that I would again accept a new job.

How do you strike a balance between work, free time and family?
Traveling as much as I do doesn't always make it easy to have enough time for my family. All the more reason to make the best use of what free time I have for activities with the family.

How do you spend your free time?
In spite of all the traveling I have to do for work, one of my hobbies is traveling for pleasure, getting out to see other countries and cultures. I enjoy foreign cities with their varied cultural opportunities. I also enjoy hiking or jogging.