From IT Consultant to Packaging Group Leader, the extraordinary story of Andrzej Kaczmarek

Friday, December 6, 2024

Tell us about your first experience and how it come that you joined Mondelēz?

I was going to be an IT specialist until I got involved with packaging. After earning a master’s in computer science, my first serious job was as an IT specialist in a book publishing house: ‘You know computers, so you can also help with book layouts.’ My passion for photography led me to learn Photoshop and collaborate with photo and model agencies. At a DTP agency, I improved my skills in composition and layout. Later, at a magazine publishing house, I got involved in the industry printing process. I also worked in a flexible material producer and printer. Before joining Mondelēz, I was a packaging developer at a multinational company.

This transition took me from IT through graphic design and printing technology to specializing in packaging.

How would you describe your Mondelēz career path?

I joined the company 9 years ago as a Packaging Technologist for the chocolate praline team. Initially new to the FMCG industry, I learned the necessary techniques and got to know our factories. After two years, I was recruited to Senior Packaging Technologist for the tablets department, where I implemented several key projects, including launching Dark Milk production and Oreo Sandwich, several line automations and production offloads. In 2021, I became a Senior Technologist II, coordinating junior colleagues and managing projects mainly for the Bludenz factory. Last year, I became the leader of the Gifting and Praline Packaging Team. Throughout my career, I’ve consistently worked within the packaging team, gaining a comprehensive understanding of our operations.

I’ve had the privilege of learning from experienced colleagues and supportive leaders. Currently, I combine my passion for packaging with my enjoyment of working with a team, helping achieve their goals.

What personal qualities or skills make you successful in your position?

• Set bold goals and don't be afraid of new challenges. I started as an ‘IT guy’ with no knowledge of book composition. Being a specialist in one field, I explored others, learned and grew. I wanted to be good at them. Even if I didn’t know something, I knew I had to learn it.
• Update your knowledge and stay open to change. When I started managing a small team in the publishing house, I took up postgraduate studies in management. Later, I studied logistics and project management to handle complex projects. I learn to achieve my goals, not just for the sake of learning.
• Perseverance is key. Many of these trainings took a lot of time. Postgraduate studies and training required additional effort, but they allowed me to feel comfortable with new projects and teams. My personal challenge was to get up from behind the monitor, start training, and complete an Ironman competition three years ago. With clear goals and perseverance, you can achieve anything… oh nearly anything.

What is your advice for those building a career in the world of packaging?

The packaging world is diverse and full of challenges. We collaborate with various departments, creating new products. One day we’re close to the customer, the next day close to factories. There’s strong focus on technology and processes, and for another project with specifications, new regulations, or complicated logistical requirements. If you enjoy diversity and daily challenges, this is the place for you.

I started as a ‘IT guy,’ but with effort, learning, and curiosity, I expanded my knowledge and took on new roles. My advice the same for years: “Real cases teach us the most” and “focus on the consumer”.

Lastly, what is your favorite Mondelēz snack, and what makes it special to you?

Nussbeisser - the fragrance of nuts & chocolate related to childhood, but after 9 years in MDLZ: Suchard Turron Dark with Almonds because it’s… delicious .