In our monthly "5 Questions for..." interviews, we take a close look at the career paths of top executives to uncover their secrets to success. What qualities form the basis of their careers and what key messages and insights can we take away for our own?
In the interview with Benjamin Spitteler, Head of Sales at FRIKE Group, it is these three qualities that stand out: all-round commitment, self-discipline and perseverance. These are also the strengths that today complement Benjamin Spitteler's professional expertise as Head of Sales at FRIKE Group, Switzerland's largest independent contract manufacturer. In the pharmaceutical, cosmetics and chemical sectors, the company produces private label and branded products for national and international customers at six locations in Switzerland.
The business graduate with many years of experience as a product manager, business unit manager in the fulfillment sector and now as a sales manager is a good example that dreams can also be realized outside of work with a lot of drive. School performance does not have to be the determining factor of later professional success. Knowing what you want and putting everything into it will get you further in life. Thus, he has not only privately realized his childhood dream, but also founded a start-up (N.U.S. AG), which distributes phytopharmaceuticals. In addition, Mr. Spitteler also takes the time to do volunteer work.
As part of our "5 Questions for..." series, we talked to him about his beliefs, values and professional practices. Learn more about Benjamin Spitteler and read how he faces setbacks and deals with difficulties.
Mr. Spitteler, if you had taken a different path when you were younger, what would you have become?
"As a young person, I first wanted to become a pilot. I later realized that dream anyway with private pilot training."
What would you work for free for a week?
"I still volunteer on the school board and other committees in addition to my job. Since I'm a proponent of the militia system, I want to do my part there."
What was the best professional advice you ever received?
"As a mediocre secondary school student, I realized in my final year that I wanted to take the Matura. But the step to the Gymnasium was too big. At the time, my parents advised me to go to AKAD and take the Matura there. Not because it was easier, but the connection to the school material was better. I then started the distance learning program at AKAD at the age of 16 and worked in a factory at 50%. Studying part-time really strengthened my self-discipline and stamina. After 2 ½ years, I had completed the Matura."
How do you face setbacks and deal with difficulties?
"I first try to stay calm and analyze the situation. Depending on the situation, immediate measures can solve a lot of problems and save time. In any case, I try not to give up in the event of setbacks."
What is especially important to you in your work environment and what is definitely not coming into the office?
"My desk is decorated in a very rustic style. I like to have products from current projects on my desk. I work with several people in one room, so it's important to get along well. Of course, I'm often out and about in our businesses and with clients. I don't have any special personal items in the office."
We would like to thank Mr. Spitteler for his contribution to this article. This interview was conducted in writing.
Editor: Neslihan Steiner
Batterman Consulting Basel AG
Executive Search,
Byfangweg 1a, CH-4051 Basel
T +41 58 680 55 55
basel@batterman.ch
