Michela: Hi Matteo, you have been in Imesa since 2003, you began as a cable operator and today you are in a role of responsibility. Would you like to tell us how your adventure in the company began?
Matteo: Absolutely! I joined Imesa in 2003 as a wirer, primarily working on medium voltage systems. Over time, I developed my skills and had the opportunity to start traveling for work, both in Italy and abroad, handling tasks such as wiring modifications and later pre-commissioning and commissioning. Business trips are always very formative and stimulating experiences. Not without sacrifices, but they allowed me to face sometimes very complex situations in countries very different from Italy, such as South Korea, Singapore, China, India, Kuwait,etc.
Then, unfortunately, between 2018 and 2019, due to physical issues, I needed to stop traveling and return to the headquarters, where I resumed working on testing medium voltage panels. This phase was also important because I continued to acquire expertise and increase my experience as a tester without risking overloading my body.”
Michela: Over the years, you’ve gained a solid understanding of the department’s operational dynamics. How did you react when you found out you were chosen as team leader for primary medium voltage and low voltage?
Matteo: I must admit it was both a great satisfaction and a surprise. I’ve always tried to do my job to the best of my ability, learning from experiences and from the people I’ve worked with. When I was offered this role, I felt a mix of pride and responsibility. It was an important recognition that made me feel appreciated for the commitment and experience I’ve accumulated over the years. At the same time, leading a team means not only coordinating the work but also being a point of reference. Furthermore this position hadn’t existed in the workshop for a few years, and there was a need to address the absence of two department heads. So, in a way, I had to reinvent myself.
Michela: What qualities do you think made you the right person for this role?
Matteo: I think several qualities are essential. First and foremost, the ability to listen and understand people’s needs, to support them in the best way possible. I get along pretty well with everyone, and I have a group of about 30 people to manage. It’s also important to have a good overall vision, be able to make decisions, and know how to manage priorities to meet production deadlines.
Michela: I imagine there are also many new activities. Among them, which are the most challenging projects you’re working on?
Matteo: Yes, indeed, there are several projects with interesting challenges. The LEAN project is particularly stimulating. We’re working to optimize internal processes to improve efficiency and reduce waste. This requires continuous effort from everyone because many issues have come up, and we’re trying to find solutions together. The most complex part is implementing changes to ensure that everyone is involved and motivated. It will take some time, but I’m confident we’ll succeed!
Then there’s the management of external suppliers for subcontracted materials, which is also crucial. We’re trying to improve communication and coordination with suppliers so that materials arrive on time and with the required quality. This isn’t always easy, especially when multiple parties are involved. But I’m learning a lot, and every challenge is also an opportunity for growth for me and the team.
Michela: Even though you’ve been in this role for just over a year, have you already noticed tangible results from your work?
Matteo: One of the most significant results is achieving 100% on-time delivery. It’s extremely rewarding because it means we’ve managed to meet all deadlines while maintaining consistent quality. But I must admit it’s also quite stressful.
Michela: Speaking of results, an important aspect in the company is the continuous commitment to employee well-being. Marco Achilli has often emphasized the importance of corporate welfare, introducing it concretely in the company. What do you think?
Matteo: Corporate welfare is definitely something that has a very positive impact, both individually and as a team. The initiatives that Marco Achilli has promoted show a great focus on the well-being of the company and its employees.
Imesa is in a strong recovery phase, and there’s a lot of work planned. My goal is to give my best to improve production processes together with my team, whom I will never stop thanking because I know I can count on reliable and proactive colleagues.
I won’t hide the fact that the Christmas bonus was a very appreciated gesture. Having a €1.000 in shopping vouchers is a concrete help at a time of year when expenses are high, and it made it even more special.
Michela: Thank you, Matteo. Keep up the great work!