Mr. Zeman, how did you get a job in KOH-I-NOOR Mladá Vožice a.s. and what position did you initially start with?
My path to the company was quite straightforward. I am originally from this region, and after my military service, when I got married and my daughter was born, I was looking for an apartment. KIN offered me one along with a job that matched my profession. Although I had to cover a sum for my previous studies, KIN paid this amount, allowing me to start working immediately. I have been working here since 1982, with a short break when I temporarily left the company. Initially, I joined as an Independent Testing Technician focused on incoming inspection.
Do you remember your first day? What were your feelings and expectations?
Yes, I remember October 4, 1982, very well. I came from a modern company to a similar modern one, but the environment of an old castle where production was located was quite unusual. My expectations and feelings were mixed since there was no one to take over the role from. However, my colleagues were very helpful. I expected to enjoy the work and earn a good living, which indeed happened. I could not have imagined gradual career growth all the way to eventually the position of Production and Technical Director when I first started.
Throughout your career in this company, you have held various positions. Could you describe your professional journey and highlight some key moments that influenced you the most?
I started in the quality department, where experts taught me a lot and gave me a solid foundation. Over time, I went through several positions – from Independent Testing Technician to Shift Control Manager, Production Supervisor, Production Center Manager, Production Director, and finally Production and Technical Director. After a short break, I returned as the Head of Setters and gradually moved back into quality positions where now I am sharing my experience and knowledge gained over the years and positions with my colleagues. Key moments of my career included the development of new products and technologies, the acquisition of unique machines, the relocation of production to a new facility, and much more.
How has the company changed during your tenure? What were the biggest changes you noticed in company culture or overall operations?
The company has undergone significant changes, just like Czech society as a whole. The key moments included separating from KIN Prague and privatization, which led to a complete transformation of company culture. Another crucial decision was building additional production facilities, which took the company to a new level. Automation and robotics have influenced processes, the production portfolio has changed, and the company has expanded globally.
What do you enjoy the most about working in KOH-I-NOOR? What gives you the greatest professional satisfaction?
Working at KIN has always fulfilled me. I have influenced the development of technologies and human potential, managed crisis situations, which gave me adrenaline and satisfaction. Currently, I work in a more routine environment and focus on passing my knowledge to colleagues, which I consider crucial for maintaining the company’s skills.
What were the biggest challenges you faced in the company? How did you overcome them, and what did you learn from them?
A major challenge was becoming part of the company’s top management and achieving set goals, which I believe I managed well. Other challenges included ensuring the profitability of candle production, a product outside our core portfolio but linked to our manufacturing expertise, and entering new markets. I overcame many technical and interpersonal obstacles, which taught me empathy and effective communication, how to manage and connect with people.
Could you describe your colleagues and the company atmosphere? What makes KOH-I-NOOR special to you?
Honestly, I’ve been fortunate to work with people who are not only professionals but also great individuals on a personal level. We’ve always been able to resolve any problems effectively. The company atmosphere is probably similar to other companies, but it offers many benefits. What makes the company unique is its product – aerosol valves, which are produced by only a few companies worldwide.
Finally, what advice would you give to young people considering a job in this company? What qualities and skills do you think are necessary to succeed?
KIN, like many other companies, faces a shortage of skilled professionals. To succeed here, all that is needed is effort, diligence, healthy self-confidence, patience, and a willingness to learn.
Could you share a funny or inspiring story from your time working in this company?
There are many funny stories, some of which probably shouldn’t be published, so I’d rather leave this topic closed.
What message would you like to send to the company’s management and your colleagues?
I don’t have any extraordinary message for the management since we regularly meet and discuss issues. The management takes my opinions seriously, and our meetings are constructive. My usual message remains: I wish you all energy, professionalism, good fortune, and empathy. The same applies to my colleagues – we have always been able to collaborate both professionally and in communication.
