Petra began her career at Valmet Automotive in 2021 as part of the indirect sourcing team. Since then, she has advanced in her career and now works in the Supplier Management function as a team manager in sourcing. She holds a degree in Industrial Engineering.

Most of Petra’s work is done from the Turku office, but she also visits Valmet Automotive’s Uusikaupunki plant when needed – sometimes several days a week, other times less frequently.

A BOLD STEP TOWARD SOMETHING NEW

Before joining Valmet Automotive, Petra had spent nearly a decade working in another company in various sourcing and logistics roles. She says she started looking for a new job simply out of curiosity – to see how another organization operates. Changing jobs turned out to be the right decision, enabling her to learn new things and grow professionally.

  • When Valmet Automotive called and offered me the job, I needed a few days to think. I was nervous about leaving a workplace I knew and liked, but I was greeted by a friendly team and given a warm welcome. I have always enjoyed development work, and it has been great to be involved here right from the start. It was immediately inspiring to see that ideas were taken on board and that I could influence things.

VERSATILE TASKS AND A TRANSITION TO LEADERSHIP

Petra’s journey at Valmet Automotive began with diverse tasks supporting sourcing across various departments. At the time, the organization was in a project phase, which meant she worked on facilities sourcing but also on investment sourcing in both general assembly and body shop.

This broad experience led to Petra’s first manager role, where she managed a small team while continuing her work in indirect sourcing. She then transitioned to lead a category team for about six months. For the past year, she has worked as the team manager for the sourcing team.

  • I did not initially see myself as a manager, but when the opportunity came, I decided to go for it – and I am glad I did. There is still a lot to learn, but this is a journey that never really ends. I see myself as positive and conscientious, and I want to make sure things run smoothly, Petra explains.

Most of Petra’s team members work as sourcing engineers. Some focus on project sourcing and large contracts, while others handle daily operational tasks such as purchasing. The team also includes people who analyze data and contribute to development work.

  • We have a variety of roles in the team, and we have tried to align them with people’s interests and strengths – which I believe is how it should be. It is a relief to have a skilled and supportive team where everyone does their part well.
    Petra and her team are responsible for all indirect sourcing – everything not directly related to the company’s main product, cars, but essential for smooth production and a functional work environment. This includes a wide range of purchases, such as ICT, facilities, and spare parts. Every sourcing plays a key role in the overall functionality.

DRIVING DEVELOPMENT AND VISIBILITY FOR PROCUREMENT

Petra’s workdays vary greatly – some are filled with meetings, while others are quieter and allow her to focus on other tasks. She actively looks for development opportunities and thinks of ways to improve the team’s operations.

  • My work still includes operational tasks, such as collaborating with suppliers and participating in meetings and steering groups. I also have regular one-on-one discussions with my team members and take on various development tasks.

Although acting as a manager was not original goal, Petra finds her current role meaningful and wants to continue growing in it.

  • I hope to continue in this role and develop both myself and the team. I would also like to increase the visibility and role of sourcing within the organization. The first years here have been full of change, but now I would love to grow in the same role for a longer period.

A WORK COMMUNITY THAT SUPPORTS LEARNING

Petra highlights development opportunities and the work community as the best parts of her job. Her role requires financial thinking, supplier management skills, and strong interpersonal abilities.

  • My team is great, and this is a nice place to work. I get to be involved in both development and daily operations. Sometimes I may have too many irons in the fire, but it all comes down to time management and focus. Many things are best learned by doing, and it is important to bring the right people together to move things forward – whether they are suppliers or internal stakeholders. Negotiation skills come more naturally to some than others, but the more you negotiate, the better you get. The same goes for contracts – the more you read, the better you understand what really matters.

 

Petra thinks Valmet Automotive is a workplace where it is easy for new employees to get started thanks to the available support and guidance. Even though the company is large, the work community quickly becomes familiar.

She encourages people to apply for open positions – even if the industry is unfamiliar – because there are plenty of opportunities for those who are eager to grow.