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In our StartYourCareer@NORMA series, former trainees, working students and interns all talk about how they got their career start at NORMA Group and the changes that come with being offered a permanent position.
Micaela Rocha started as an intern at the NORMA Group site in Águeda, Portugal, in April 2021. She has been working full-time at the company since October 2022 – initially in the HR department and now in the Purchasing department. In this interview, she talks to us about her career path at NORMA Group and how her day-to-day work has evolved over the years.
Micaela, we had an Interview with you in February 2022 when you were still an intern. At that time, we focused on your daily work routine and the challenges associated with an internship. How did the permanent position come about?
Even as an intern, I realized that I really loved working at NORMA Group. In October 2022, I was offered a permanent position and I gladly accepted.
What made you want to stay with NORMA Group after your internship?
It was mainly because of the corporate culture that fosters innovation, collaboration and professional growth.
“The team on site always supported me and listened to me – I was really impressed by the working atmosphere.”
You started in the HR department after your internship and switched to Purchasing two years later. How did that happen?
I wanted a new challenge in my career that was also more closely related to my studies in commercial management. Purchasing plays a key role in the company organization. I was fascinated by the opportunity to optimize processes and strengthen supplier relationships very appealing. These are things that are vital to NORMA Group’s success.
What does a typical day at work look like for you? How is it different from your time as an intern?
Today, my day-to-day work involves a lot more responsibility and more independent decision-making. I manage relationships with our suppliers, negotiate contracts and oversee the procurement process to ensure deliveries arrive on time. I also work closely with a number of different departments.
During my internship, my tasks were more on the supportive side, for example helping with projects and collecting data.
“Now I manage projects, make independent decisions and directly influence the processes in the plant.”
I particularly like the increased complexity that my role entails, because that’s exactly what I was looking for.
Is that what you like most about your job?
Absolutely. What I enjoy most is solving complex challenges and making strategic decisions. I also enjoy optimizing processes and working with different departments. I thoroughly enjoy the fast pace, continuous development, the new challenges we face as well as the growth opportunities that arise every day at NORMA Group.
Do you have any specific routines in your daily work?
I start the day by reading my emails and prioritizing the day’s tasks. I often have meetings with suppliers or internal teams to discuss ongoing projects or find solutions to current challenges. I also make sure that we meet our deadlines.
And what do you most look forward to every morning?
To the new challenges that each day brings and the opportunity to contribute to the success of our projects.
What do you like to do in your free time?
I spend a lot of time with my family and friends and with my five dogs. I also enjoy reading and watching tv shows.
What are your goals for the future?
On a professional level, I would like to continue to grow and take on more management responsibility, as well as expand my knowledge in the area of supply chain management and procurement strategies. I also want to become more involved in the latest trends and innovations so that I can make an even more effective contribution to NORMA Group’s goals.
Personally, my focus is on developing my skills in areas such as project management and negotiation while maintaining a healthy work-life balance, which is very important to me.
