In this article, Christian Klaere, the Senior Director of Business Development at Flex, has graciously shared his extensive career journey within the automotive industry. His story commences as an apprentice, wherein he underscores the invaluable hands-on learning experience, internal mobility opportunities, and the constantly evolving landscape of the automotive sector. Additionally, Klaere offers insights into the potential future of the industry, accentuating its transformation and exciting possibilities.
The manufacturing industry, especially in the automotive sector, presents a plethora of diverse career opportunities. As a global manufacturing company, Flex provides its employees with the opportunity to gain experience across a wide array of industries, encompassing lifestyle and consumer devices, healthcare, and of course, automotive.
This industry often paves the way for internal mobility and offers comprehensive learning and development programs to guide the progression of one’s career. Christian Klaere, the Senior Director of Business Development in the Automotive sector, who hails from Vienna, Austria, embarked on his journey at Flex as an apprentice more than 27 years ago. His narrative at Flex serves as a testament to the career growth and advancement that the industry fosters.
Christian’s journey at Flex commenced in the mid-90s when he enrolled in a four-year apprenticeship programme in Althofen, specializing as an industrial electrician and process control engineer. This program, typical of the Austrian dual school system, enabled Christian to simultaneously work and study, providing a hands-on learning experience. Furthermore, Flex supplemented this education, providing guidance and support to help young students navigate the manufacturing industry.
In 1999, upon the completion of his apprenticeship, Christian transitioned into a full-time role at Flex, assuming the position of an analyse and repair technician in production.
His inherent thirst for knowledge, improvement, and the enhancement of his technical skills propelled him to pursue further studies while working full-time. Christian pursued technical studies, obtained a secondary school qualification, and eventually secured his bachelor’s degree.
Progressing from his engineering role, Christian transitioned into project management in 2007, and subsequently supported the automotive industry in Zalaegerszeg, Hungary. His professional journey ultimately culminated in a position in global account management, and later, as a member of the business development team at Flex.
In his capacity as a Senior Business Development Director, Christian is entrusted with strategic planning and business management for customers, entailing the creation and execution of strategies that support expansion and adaptation to market changes.
From a business development perspective, the automotive industry appeals to Christian owing to the regulated market with stringent standards and certifications. He observes that automakers are venturing into new business models and establishing collaborative partnerships to develop next-generation mobility products.
Looking ahead, Christian holds an optimistic view of the future of the automotive industry, particularly its transformational shift towards sustainability, vehicle electrification, and software-defined vehicles. He is enthused about contributing to this transformation through Flex’s capabilities in traditional agile manufacturing services and tailored next-generation mobility solutions.
In conclusion, Christian Klaere’s journey within the automotive industry stands as a testament to the opportunities and growth available to individuals within the manufacturing sector. His career trajectory exemplifies the dynamic and continually evolving nature of the industry, while also shedding light on the potential future advancements and transformations within the automotive sector.
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