Massimo Barban

General Manager at Freudenberg-NOK Private Limited, India (FNI)

Welcome to the „Employee Spotlight“. This series introduces us to employees from all around the world as well as from all different job functions within our company. We get the opportunity to gain insights on their work life and to learn the variety of job options that are available within the company.

Here Is His Story:

In about five sentences, please give us an overview of your job at Freudenberg Sealing Technologies.

My role at FNI (Freudenberg-NOK Private Limited, India) is General Manager in the Engineering Department. I work in tool design on the process team. Currently, some of my projects include facilitating the moving of equipment to new plants, upgrading the safety standards for all tooling machines, and helping to ensure the smooth exchange of information between lead centers in Europe and India. I spend my time equally at two different facilities; one in Basma and the other in Mohali. It’s not too difficult as the locations are only 35km apart from each other.

What makes working with Freudenberg Sealing Technologies different from other companies or teams you’ve worked with?

I started working for Freudenberg in 1987 in Italy. At that time, we were known as CORCOS. I joined the company only one year after finishing my education, so I did not have any experience with big companies or organizations. During my time with the company I have visited many customers and vendors, and in most cases I have not found the same level of organization that exists at Freudenberg Sealing Technologies. One example of our standards is the Guiding Principle “People”, which addresses the behavior of people. I believe we were one of the first companies to introduce such a standard. When I was first hired in Italy, quality manufacturing was the only standard.

Why did you decide you wanted to work here?

It was clear to me in 1987 that I could not pass up the opportunity to work for a global company that makes a difference. I spent my first 30 years in Italy with several different technical roles and responsibilities. I am proud to say that I have grown with Freudenberg Sealing Technologies. I have witnessed many changes and improvements in our company over the years, and that is why we are where we are as a company today.

What does Freudenberg Sealing Technologies have to offer regarding career / talent development?

I believe that the current approach and the tools available to employees at Freudenberg Sealing Technologies are well built. Freudenberg Sealing Technologies always encourages people to grow, improve and take on new challenges and responsibilities. It so happened that after 30 years of working in Italy, I took the opportunity to have an expatriate experience at FNI in India.

Freudenberg Sealing Technologies always encourages people to grow, improve and take on new challenges and responsibilities.

Do you have recommendations for potential colleagues regarding applying for a job at Freudenberg Sealing Technologies?

My recommendation for potential future colleagues is to be open to having an experience in a different country or job position. Have an open mind, increase your personal knowledge, and improve your behavior working for Freudenberg Sealing Technologies. Be prepared to communicate with people of different cultures, religions, and business approaches.

How is your team organized and categorized within the company structure?

The organization of my team is India is quite different from that of my team in Italy. Moving to India was a huge change not only by physical location but also as far as local culture. At the moment, we are revolutionizing our organizational structure and it is not easy to do. Especially right now, as we move production tools from one plant to another. Not all people are willing to move locations due to religious beliefs, food and language differences.