Volker van Lier

“I can continue to develop professionally at Continental the way I want to”

How long have you been employed at Continental?
Since July 2004.

How did you end up at the company?
My attention was drawn to Continental at an Internet job fair and I applied immediately. The application process went very well and soon thereafter I was offered a position.

What is a typical work day like for you?
I work with all the auto manufacturers Continental supplies. Fortunately, I have a lot of contact with our customers. A typical example: The engineering department at one of the manufacturers we supply would like to modify a brake system we developed. In this case, I try to incorporate what the customer wants into the existing system.
I oversee both commercial and technical aspects of the project, from the bid phase through to the completion of the project. 

How do you rate career opportunities at Continental?
I see outstanding career opportunities at Continental Particularly in my area, which has only been in existence for about three years, I see very good chances for development. We are a growing division to which you can contribute your skills.

Which skills and qualities are crucial for a successful career at Continental?
Technical expertise, of course, is the basic prerequisite for a successful career. The ability to work in a team and build up a good network is also important factors. The latter is especially helpful whenever you have to obtain important information quickly without getting the run-around.

Why should people decide in favor of Continental as an employer?
Continental is one of the world’s largest suppliers to the automobile industry. As a result, there are multiple opportunities and very good chances for personal development. Continental is also aware of its responsibility to its employees, which is seen in the outstanding social benefits, for example.

How important is teamwork for you?
Teamwork is of central importance, particularly in the case of cross-locational or even transnational teams. Our procedures are so complex that one individual couldn't possibly master them.
For me as a project manager, it is especially important that a basis of trust exists within my team. We have to make absolutely certain that everyone in the team knows what we are working on and who is responsible for what.

Have you spent time abroad for a period in your life? How important are experiences like that for work at Continental?
While I was studying, I completed an internship in the U.S. and would not want to have passed up this chance for anything in the world. Experiences like that are exceedingly important for your self-confidence. You have to get your bearings in a new environment, make new contacts and communicate in an unfamiliar language.

How do you manage to establish a balance between work, free time and family?
This juggling act can be quite a challenge, but I am basically very content with how I balance work and other areas of my life. Particularly on weekends, I have enough time to completely recharge my batteries.

How do you spend your free time?
I spend most of my spare time with my wife and 2-year old daughter. If there is still time, I like to go to the movies, exercise or get together with friends.

How do you envisage your professional future at Continental?
I don't have a classic career plan. No one can say today what things will be like in five years. In general, I would like to continue developing and, most of all, what I do.