From VIE to Head of Operational Controlling: why taking a step abroad pays off

What is your current position at ALTEN?

I have been Head of Operational Controlling for four and a half years. My department consists of two teams: Project Controlling and CGO Front, which is essentially focused on sales-related controlling activities.

Our role is to identify relevant KPIs and create transparency regarding the company’s operational and financial performance. We provide management—from the first management levels to top leadership—with timely and relevant information that helps guide the business and supports informed decision-making.

What I enjoy most about my role is the combination of analytical thinking, strategic collaboration, and the opportunity to contribute directly to the company’s success. Since the business is constantly evolving, no two days are ever the same.

What makes ALTEN a great employer, and would you choose the company again?

Absolutely. ALTEN is a very dynamic company where things never become boring. The variety of tasks and challenges keep every day interesting, and there are plenty of opportunities for personal and professional growth.

One of the things I appreciate most is the international environment. In my daily work, I regularly use three languages and sometimes even four. I truly enjoy that aspect of my job. I also value the company culture. The interactions between colleagues are flexible, straightforward, and respectful. Collaboration within teams and across departments is highly collegial and enjoyable.

And yes, I would choose ALTEN again – in fact, I already have. After spending eleven years at ALTEN in Financial Controlling, I left the company for about four years before deciding to return. The fact that I consciously chose ALTEN a second time probably says it all.

Why did you decide to move to Germany?

At the time, I had just completed my studies. Before that, I had taken part in an Erasmus semester in Sweden and completed an internship in Bremen, Germany. Those international experiences had a major impact on me. I particularly enjoyed my time in Sweden, and afterward, I knew I wanted to live and work abroad again.

I eventually found an opportunity in Munich through the V.I.E. program, and that became the starting point of a journey that would shape both my professional and personal life.

What has been your personal highlight at ALTEN so far?

That is a difficult question because there have been many highlights over the years. From a professional perspective, the implementation of SAP in Germany and the integration of several new companies were probably the most significant experiences. Both were highly challenging projects that pushed me out of my comfort zone and taught me a great deal.

Beyond work, I have also had the chance to participate in many memorable events with colleagues. One particularly unforgettable experience was a trip to Paris with around 200 employees. Visiting the Eiffel Tower and taking a boat cruise on the Seine in beautiful weather created memories that will stay with me forever.

Experiences like these remind us that a career is not just about projects and numbers—it is also about people, teamwork, and shared moments.

What advice would you give to recent graduates?

I would strongly encourage young graduates to pursue a V.I.E. assignment or any comparable international experience.

At the beginning of your career, you are often more geographically flexible and open to new opportunities. It is the ideal time to step outside your comfort zone and gain meaningful professional experience abroad.

Living and working in another country teaches you to be adaptable, broadens your perspective, improves your language skills, and helps you grow both personally and professionally. The experiences you gain often stay with you for a lifetime.

The great thing is that there is no wrong outcome. After your assignment, you can decide whether you would like to return home or continue building your life abroad.

Originally, I planned to stay in Germany for only two or three years. Today, I have been living here for almost twenty years. That shows just how unexpectedly rewarding an international career journey can become.

Did you experience any culture shock?

Not really. Before moving to Germany, I had already spent time abroad, so I felt comfortable adapting to different environments. I have always been interested in other cultures and enjoy meeting people from diverse backgrounds.

Of course, every country has its own customs and ways of doing things. But that is exactly what makes international experiences so valuable. If you approach new situations with curiosity and an open mind, you can learn an incredible amount from them—both professionally and personally.