The Magic of Mondelēz, A Peek Inside the Mariánské Lázně Factory

Friday, June 6, 2024

What makes the world of MDLZ so magical? Beyond its vast factories, new jumbo production lines, and globally renowned products, there are special places like the factory in Mariánské Lázně. Located in western Bohemia, this factory employs 70 people who produce the traditional Kolonáda spa wafers on two production lines. Intriguingly, women dominate every department here. Let's get to know some of these incredible women!

Meet Vlaďka, The Quality Leader

Vlaďka has been with Mondelēz for 16 years, joining right after college. She started as a production operator, then moved up to production analyst, and has led the quality department for the past 13 years. "I still have room to grow in this position," Vlaďka says, highlighting the ever-increasing demands for food safety. What does she love most about her job? “The diversity. Quality covers 20 areas, and I’m responsible for all of them. It’s challenging, but I thrive on challenges. Every day is different, and I love that.”

Sylva, The Heart of HR

Sylva has been part of the Mariánské Lázně team for an incredible 43 years! She began as a planner and has been the HR manager since 1993. Sylva’s role involves everything from meeting colleagues and ensuring safety and quality to managing work clothes and supplies, including coffee. “I try to find time for everyone who comes to me. For me, satisfaction is a smiling and well-adjusted employee.” Although Sylva is retiring this May, she will always be a cherished part of the team.

Radka, The Logistics Maestro

Radka joined Mondelēz straight out of school, starting in an administrative role supporting production and quality. Over the past three years, she has become the logistics and warehouse manager for the external warehouse. "In my previous role, I learned the importance of every link in the production process. It doesn’t matter if you’re a manager or a cleaning worker." Radka’s day is filled with monitoring stock levels, ensuring production plans are met, and coordinating with suppliers and colleagues across departments. She thrives on the variety and the daily challenges, which are made manageable by the support of her team.

Denisa, The New Generation

Denisa is the youngest member of the factory's management, having joined two years ago from a different industry. She started as administrative support for quality and production, giving her a comprehensive understanding of the plant’s operations. This spring, she became the Administrative Coordinator and will fully take over the HR responsibilities from her mother, Sylva, in May. Denisa loves the close contact with her colleagues and the ever-changing nature of her job.

Looking Forward to New Beginnings

As we wrapped up our interviews, we asked these remarkable women what they were most excited about. They all shared the same anticipation: the completion of a major project to launch a new automatic line for sintering hazelnut wafers.

Vlaďka: "We’ve been working on partially automating one of our two lines for over nine months. It’s the biggest project I’ve seen in my 16 years here, full of challenges and new experiences. I can’t wait to see it successfully completed. And then, I’m really looking forward to a holiday with my family, who have been a great support to me."

Denisa is eager for her new role, while Sylva is looking forward to retirement: "But I won’t be idle. I’m excited for walks, bike rides, dog walks, traveling, cooking, baking, and supporting hockey and handball matches. I’ll never be bored. And I’ll always remember my beloved Kolonáda."

The Mondelēz factory in Mariánské Lázně isn’t just a place where delicious wafers are made—it’s a place where dedicated, passionate women come together to create something magical every day.