“Safety is so deeply embedded here that it becomes a habit outside of work as well.”

> Tell us, Jef. What exactly does your role as Commercial Operations Purchase involve?

In my role, I’m in daily contact with customers and suppliers from all over the world. Together with my colleagues, I help ensure that the purchasing of copper scrap, the sale of intermediates, and intercompany transactions run smoothly.

We work closely with various departments. For example, our estimators determine how much copper is contained in a batch. Based on that, we work with the supplier to decide how and when the price will be fixed, after which our hedging colleagues take over.

It’s a role where you constantly switch gears and coordinate with others. You check whether requests fit within contracts and work together with different parties to find the right solution. We aim to connect different departments within Aurubis towards customers and suppliers. That makes the job both challenging and very interesting.

> What does your typical workday look like?

My day usually starts with a coffee and checking my mailbox. Since we work with international suppliers, a lot often comes in overnight. Based on that, I determine my priorities. Throughout the day, I’m in close contact with suppliers and colleagues and follow up on cases and pricing agreements.

What makes my job so interesting is the combination of human interaction and challenge. You deal with different stakeholders and often receive complex questions that you solve from A to Z.

> You work together with many different departments. How does that collaboration work?

That collaboration is essential. I work with departments such as sampling, hedging, finance, production planning, and logistics. Everyone has their own expertise, and you need each other to achieve the best result. That’s exactly what makes it interesting: you continuously learn and gain insight into the entire process.

> Which skills are important in your role?

Communication and language skills are very important. We operate internationally, so besides Dutch, I also regularly use French and English. Clear, professional, and customer-oriented communication is key.

In addition, you need to work accurately because you are constantly dealing with figures and pricing agreements. Stress resistance is also important. For example, when metal market prices rise sharply, we immediately experience increased workload and pressure. In recent years, interest in geopolitical developments worldwide has also become important to better understand market evolution.

> How did your onboarding and training process go?

I started in scrap purchasing to learn the basics of transactions and price fixing. From there, you gradually get to know the different departments, such as sampling, hedging, and shipping. This gives you a clear understanding of the entire process.

I also completed internships with colleagues in different departments, including sampling, to better understand how the different parts of the process work in practice. This ultimately contributes to better service.

> How would you describe the atmosphere at Aurubis?

The atmosphere is very family-oriented and informal, with a typical Kempen mentality. Everyone is very approachable. That creates an open environment and makes collaboration smooth and enjoyable.

In addition, safety is truly a priority. Safety is so deeply embedded here that it even becomes a habit outside of work. It’s something everyone is aware of and actively contributes to.

> How do you experience the work-life balance?

The work-life balance is very good. We have the possibility to work from home and operate within a flexible system. Within the team, we arrange a rotation schedule so that someone is always on duty until 5 PM to continue supporting customers properly.

I live nearby and commute by bike every day. Through work, I lease a cargo bike, which makes commuting practical and flexible in combination with family life.

> Where do you see yourself in the future?

Definitely still at Aurubis. I want to continue developing within the company and remain open to exploring other roles in the future.

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