Beloslav Pavlov

I’ve been surprised by the level of responsibility and scope of roles offered to graduates so quickly. For example, I started by working in a multifunctional customer team whose objective was to develop both our customer’s and our businesses. I was personally responsible for making the logistic systems an equity, selling more cases, and giving us an edge over competition. We had to act quickly, but at the same time be precise and thorough.

Following that I had an assignment in Bucharest, Romania, where I was planning the supply of 4 laundry brands we were marketing over 7 countries – that meant ensuring sufficient supply, while optimizing the working capital.

I was working across functions, in local and regional teams on marketing drives, new product launches and regular product supply. Making sure plants were geared up and ready to deliver against our plans, managing a perfect switch-over between old and new product during transitions of over 40 locations we kept stock at, maximizing speed to shelf and minimizing leftovers - was all my job. You have to be organized and creative. And yes, it has been stressful at times. But you learn to cope with the stress, to turn it into your advantage – it’s exciting and fulfiling.

I can personally testify how much the promotion-from-within principle nurtures ownership and personal dedication. I currently lead a team of 20 people managing the supply and demand of more than a $300 million business. Naturally I dedicate most of my time to people development. I have to rely on all my experience and all that I’ve learnt about people so far to train and coach my younger colleagues, to make them think strategically and take autonomous decisions. And I learn more every day. It’s very inspiring and rewarding.