“We grow together here – as colleagues and as a company.”

• Tell us, Karel. How did your career at Aurubis begin?
  Aurubis was my first employer after completing my studies in Civil Engineering – Metallurgy. I quickly realized that my future was in the industry, which led me to Aurubis Olen. From day one, I felt this was a place with a true “no-nonsense” mentality: straightforward, hands-on, and moving forward together.
  
  I started as Production Manager at Contirod and immediately received significant responsibility and opportunities for growth. Over the years, I held various roles – from Process Manager to R&D and Technical Marketing. This broad experience helps me immensely today in my role as HSE & Sustainability Director. My responsibilities cover areas such as permits, European regulations, reporting, and compliance. Thanks to my background in production, engineering, and R&D, I know exactly where our strengths and challenges lie and how to leverage them to grow further.
   

• What makes working at Aurubis so special for you?
  Without a doubt: the colleagues and our mindset. Together, we form a strong team that supports and pushes each other forward. The knowledge and expertise we have are immense, and our smelter network is unique. Together, we can process a wide variety of materials and recycle them to the fullest. What others consider “waste,” we turn back into valuable raw materials. This is not only technically impressive but also socially relevant – and very rewarding. We can be truly proud of that.
  
  The best part of working at Aurubis is that you continuously develop yourself and grow with the company.

• Aurubis Beerse and Olen were named ‘Most Sustainable Company 2024’. What does this recognition mean for us?
  The Trends Impact Award in the Circular Economy category is a great confirmation of our joint efforts. It shows that as an industrial player, you can perfectly take a pioneering role in sustainability.
  
  At the same time, this award motivates us to keep going. Our ambition is clear: we want to become the most sustainable metallurgical player in the world. And I am convinced that we have the knowledge, technology, and people to achieve that.
   

• How do we translate that ambition into concrete projects?
  Sustainability is at the heart of everything we do – in large investments, but also in smaller, conscious choices and initiatives. A great example is our high-visibility vest project: we donated vests to all preschool and primary school children in Beerse and Olen – more than 2,500 in total – to increase their visibility and safety in traffic.
  
  This shows that our responsibility goes beyond our company walls. We are part of a community and are happy to contribute positively.
   

• Safety is an important topic at Aurubis. What is your vision on this?
  Safety is and will always remain our absolute priority. Our goal is clear: zero accidents. That is only possible if everyone develops the same reflex – both at work and at home. Together, we build a culture where safety is natural and a shared responsibility for all of us.

• How do you view the future of the Belgian Aurubis sites?
  With great confidence. We are a company that never stands still: we continue to invest, innovate, and improve our processes. We are professional, our knowledge grows, and our impact on the circular economy is increasing. We have a strong team with talented and committed colleagues.
  
  Projects such as BOB, ASPA and AOS demonstrate that we think ahead and are already building the facilities of tomorrow today. Our sites in Beerse and Olen play a key role in a sustainable future – for Aurubis, our region, and society. We can be proud of that.
   

• What gives you satisfaction in your work?
  Above all, the human aspect. Every day, I work with a passionate team that motivates and supports each other. We take care of each other and share the same ambition: to build together a safe, sustainable, and forward-looking company.
  
  As long as I keep learning and enjoy what I do, it never feels like work. And when I see that our efforts truly make a difference – for our colleagues, the environment, and the future – I know I am in the right place.

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