Meet Tomasz Wojciechowski, Business Development and Engineering Manager

Friday, September 5, 2024

Tell us a bit about yourself.

Hello, I'm Tomasz, an engineer passionate about continuous learning and innovation. With a strong foundation in Mechatronics, having earned both a Master’s and Engineer’s degree from Politechnika Warszawska, and a postgraduate diploma in Project Management from Uniwersytet Warszawski, I've always been driven by the desire to grow and make a meaningful impact. I thrive in industrial environments where challenges are plenty and where there’s always room for self-development and team growth. Currently, I’m the Business Development and Engineering Manag-er at Mondelēz International, where I lead with an open mind and a commitment to fostering both technical excellence and collaborative teamwork.

When and why did you decide to join MDLZ?

When I joined Mondelēz International in October 2018, it was with a clear vision in mind. I wanted to expand my horizons and deepen my expertise in project management, especially within a dy-namic manufacturing setting. My background in engineering fuelled my desire to take on leader-ship roles in investment projects that could drive significant change. I was drawn to MDLZ because it offered the opportunity to develop my skills and be part of an international team dedicated to innovation and excellence. I couldn't pass up the prospect of leading projects that could truly make a difference.

What is your current role? What do you find the most exciting about this role?

In my current role as Business Development and Engineering Manager, I focus on managing and supporting my team. Rather than focusing solely on direct project management, I take pride in empowering my team members to take ownership of their projects. I believe in creating a support-ive environment where the engineering and business development teams can grow professionally and develop confidence in their abilities. It’s incredibly fulfilling to see my team members flourish, knowing that I’ve played a part in their growth and success. This collaborative approach is what excites me the most about my role.

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

Success in my position comes from a blend of technical expertise and soft skills that truly make a difference in a team environment. My strong technical background provides a solid foundation, but my commitment to continuous improvement and my ability to connect with others drive suc-cess. I am passionate about building a winning culture, where collaboration, trust, and open com-munication are at the forefront. By fostering this kind of environment, I help accelerate consumer growth and ensure that our projects align with the company’s strategic goals. Moreover, my dedi-cation to motivating and inspiring my team ensures we all move forward together, achieving more than we could individually.

How has your career developed at MDLZ?

Reflecting on my journey at MDLZ, I see it as a path of growth, both professionally and personally. I started as a Project Engineer, gradually taking on more responsibility and eventually moving into leadership roles. This journey has allowed me to develop my technical skills and embrace the soft-er aspects of leadership. By prioritizing team development and nurturing a collaborative atmos-phere, I’ve been able to contribute to our collective success. Throughout my career, I’ve consist-ently aligned my work with the company’s values, such as building a winning culture and accelerat-ing consumer growth. This alignment has helped me grow as a leader and made my contributions more impactful.

What projects or assignments have you done outside the traditional career moves that helped you further your career?

In addition to the traditional career path, I’ve had the opportunity to lead several key initiatives that have significantly shaped my professional growth. For instance, I spearheaded the implemen-tation of the Integrated Lean Six Sigma (IL6S) methodology, which brought about operational im-provements and cost savings across our site. Moreover, I’ve been deeply involved in strategic planning and preparing my team for large-scale investment projects. These experiences have al-lowed me to grow beyond the conventional scope of my role, equipping me with a broader per-spective and a more strategic mindset.

What professional and career advice would you give to your younger self?

If I could speak to my younger self, I would encourage embracing challenges with open arms and never shying away from opportunities to learn and grow. It’s so important to step out of your com-fort zone and seek new experiences, even when they seem daunting. I would also stress the value of building strong relationships and networks within your industry. These connections are invalua-ble and often lead to unexpected opportunities and insights. Finally, I would remind myself that success is not just about technical skills but also about connecting with others, inspiring your team, and staying committed to continuous personal and professional development.

And finally, why do you continue to choose MDLZ?

I continue to choose Mondelēz International because it’s a place where innovation, growth, and meaningful work are not just encouraged but celebrated. The company’s commitment to both per-sonal and professional development creates an environment where I can thrive and continue to advance my career. Furthermore, being part of a global team dedicated to making a real impact keeps me motivated and inspired. It’s this combination of opportunity, growth, and a supportive culture that makes MDLZ the perfect place for me to continue my journey.