Meet: Erik Hansen – Supply Chain Finance Director, Costing

At SEE, celebrating our people and their accomplishments is a core part of our culture. In our “Meet: Our People” series, you’ll hear directly from our people across the globe on what it’s like working at SEE, and a little bit about them outside of work.

Where are you located?

Hamburg, Germany.

How long have you been at SEE? 

25 years.

My career path to my current role was:

I started an internship at SEE Germany in Flensburg, my hometown, which I completed in two-and-a-half years. Shortly after, I relocated to the U.K. and worked as an Assistant Cost Accountant at the St. Neots plant for one year. I then supported the SAP rollout from a supply chain finance perspective before moving into the Plant Controller role of the Hamburg plant. Over the years, I gradually took on managerial and project roles in supply chain finance, both regionally and globally. I have been fortunate to constantly develop and have found sponsors who exposed me to new, unfamiliar ground, pushing me out of my comfort zone.

What were some of the challenges you faced during the SAP roll out and how did you overcome them?

It was the first time I got a regional and even global perspective on SEE processes and practices. The challenge was to align all operations in the different countries to one global template. We accomplished that by challenging the status quo, raising questions to the local experts, and finding common ground.

What’s your favorite part of your position?

Working cross-functionally and cross-regionally and witnessing the expected benefits of projects materialize, with everyone contributing their experience and skills.

What advice would you give to new employees?

Remember that every extra mile you go will pay off sooner or later. Be open-minded about new things. 

What advice do you have for people looking to start their careers or become leaders today?

Listen carefully to senior professionals, pick the good things from each of them, and combine the best for your own development. Admit mistakes openly and learn from them. Approach issues pragmatically, using simple ways to resolve them as much as possible.

The core value that inspires me the most is authenticity because:

I truly believe you can become a strong person and achieve a lot if you “walk the talk” and have core values to stand by regardless of external factors and emotions. I’ve implemented this strategy over the years when interacting with so many different people at different management levels in a global organization like ours. It makes processes much smoother, goals easier to achieve, and it makes you feel more comfortable working in an environment surrounded by people which you can approach easily. 

Who has inspired you to become who you are today? 

My grandmother inspired me. She supported me throughout my adolescence when my parents got seriously ill. Her caring skills allowed me to focus on my education. It is all about supporting someone you strongly believe in with the capabilities you have. Without her, I would not be where I am today -- a happy husband and father of two sons. 

What is your favorite mantra or quote?

"If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, then go together." 

Do you have any hobbies or activities you like to do outside of the office? 

I am a volunteer at a local hospital, visiting patients in need and spending time with them on weekends. This is a rewarding experience and reminds me of what really matters in life every time. I also enjoy outdoor sports such as cycling, tennis, hiking, and gardening. 

In your role as a volunteer at the local hospital, what has been the most rewarding or memorable experience you've had?

It is the small things which make this such a rewarding experience. Two stories stand out in my memory: 

• A middle-aged man with no relatives suffering from cancer in its last stages had a strong desire for a few sweets from the supermarket. I delivered his shopping list to him, and his smile made my day.
• A homeless man who was sent to hospital without any personal belongings needed basic clothing. I selected a few items for him from the second-hand donation shop. I felt I was giving him back some dignity. 

What’s something you are passionate about besides your career?

Be grateful for the standard of living you may have reached and remind yourself that nothing comes for free. Watch out and listen to what is around you and try to understand other perspectives and backgrounds. This will help you to grow and develop. Also, do not assume an air of importance and always have a good laugh, which helps a lot to get through tough times.

If you could have lunch with one person from history, who would it be? 

It would be the German scientist, Alexander von Humboldt. I am impressed with his mindset, findings, and broad knowledge on how everything on Earth is interrelated, going back 200 years. 

Interested in joining us? Check out our careers page for open roles.