An exchange abroad
Mobility Exchange Programme
The Global Mobility Exchange Programme offers employees the opportunity to work at a Geberit location abroad for a specific period of time. Four experiences in short interviews.
Marko Polvi, Product Manager, Finland – Switzerland
What attracted you to the programme?
I have been working as a product manager at the Finnish sales office in Vantaa since 2017. Our market is small and I had never been to another Geberit location. When I heard about the Global Mobility Exchange Programme, I was interested. It offers me the opportunity to expand my network. And I can get to know the processes and procedures at group level.
How did you benefit from the programme?
I was able to accompany product developments, participate in laboratory tests and learn a lot about the processes that have to take place at Group level before a product is launched on the market. In return, I was able to show my new colleagues the challenges we face in Finland when launching products. It was enriching for both sides. My personal highlight was attending a General Meeting for the first time as a shareholder.
Eric Imbert, Product Manager, France – Switzerland
What was your experience like?
My three months in Rapperswil-Jona were intense and valuable. They had a positive impact on me and my job as product manager for the French sales organisation. I met many colleagues in person for the first time. We were able to discuss market needs and regulatory and technical challenges in building drainage in France, and I gained in-depth insights into ongoing product developments. This led to constructive discussions and a better mutual understanding. I gained professional confidence and a broader network.
What was challenging?
For the first time, I was separated from my wife and our two children for a long period of time. That wasn't always easy. Some evenings were very quiet. But I had time to relax and the opportunity to choose what to watch on television. I also joined the badminton team. I particularly appreciated the much shorter commute to work. On weekends, I often spent five hours on the train to visit my family. But I wouldn't want to have missed this experience abroad.
Jerome Zech, Manager Web Consulting, Switzerland – Singapore
What attracted you to the programme?
I had always wanted to spend time abroad. This opportunity allowed me to spend three months getting to know the working methods and everyday life of the sales organisation in Singapore and to establish contacts with new colleagues. In return, I was able to share my knowledge of digital marketing at the Geberit Group. I had a fantastic time.
What surprised you?
It was during my very first meeting on site: every product we want to market in the North South East Asia (NSEA) region requires official certification by the authorities. This process is costly and time-consuming and must be carried out individually for each country in the region. I was also impressed by the diverse range of tasks my colleagues perform.
Mario Waldinger, Product Manager, Switzerland – United Kingdom
What did you hope to gain from the programme?
As a product manager at group level, I maintain many international contacts in English. Sometimes I reached my linguistic limits. Together with my supervisor, we came up with the idea of working in England for a while and supporting the local team. Since three months at a stretch were not possible due to family and project commitments, we decided on a five-week stay. That way, I could kill two birds with one stone.
What were you able to learn and pass on?
My flat was in Warwick, within walking distance of the sales office, where around 100 people work. I was able to support the local team with smaller projects. I also visited construction sites and trade fairs. This allowed me to share my experience in the field of fire protection technology and sound insulation. We had a great atmosphere in the team and also did things together in our free time, such as visiting a city festival. In the evenings, I took private English lessons several times a week. I benefited greatly from this.
