Driving Innovations in the World of Commercial Vehicles
Cristiana Grecco - Research and Development Manager in Brazil
In 1999, I kicked off my career journey at ZF as an intern while studying Mechanical Projects Technology at a local university. At just 19, I found myself entering the professional world at ZF. Interestingly, ZF was not a new name in my family; my father had been a part of the ZF family since 1985, working in the production area sharpening cutting tools. Growing up, I often heard captivating stories about the ZF world from my father – stories of its products and achievements. These narratives fueled a strong desire within me to become a part of ZF as well.
I continued my education and earned my second degree in Engineering in 2005. Following that, I was invited to work in Friedrichshafen, Germany, where I spent two enriching years learning new technologies that would later be implemented in Brazil.
Fast forward to today, and I currently hold the position of R&D Manager in Sorocaba, Brazil. My team operates as an autonomous engineering force, specializing in the application of conventional, electrical, and solid axle products. Our mission is to develop technologies that cater to the unique demands of the Brazilian market and propose business opportunities through technical solutions.
Cristiana Grecco - Research and Development Manager in Brazil
Brazil presents distinctive challenges, such as higher loads for commercial vehicles compared to Europe. My key contribution revolves around ensuring that our products align with the specific needs of the market and customers. Notably, our plant in Brazil is the only ZF facility producing such a diverse range of products simultaneously. Managing this complexity requires effective support for manufacturing and other relevant areas.
Currently, our team is actively working on the Euro 6 engine, recently introduced into our portfolio. We are exploring new applications with enhanced engine potential in collaboration with our main customers. Additionally, the rapid growth of E-Mobility has prompted me to guide my team in comprehending market trends and customer requirements.
My day-to-day responsibilities involve aligning with my team leaders, providing guidance, support, and ensuring they have the resources needed for effective task execution. Managing project timelines, allocating resources, and making decisions in line with project goals and overall company objectives are also part of my role. I frequently check budgets, address technical challenges, troubleshoot issues, and stay updated with industry trends and best practices.
The biggest challenge of my work is contributing to the development and implementation of long-term engineering strategies that align with the company's overall business goals, all while following customers' strategies in a budget-reduced scenario.
What I find most rewarding about my job is the opportunity to participate in and support the professional growth of individuals in their careers. This involves providing training, sharing experiences, and implementing strategies for their future, along with contributing to the overall growth of the company. Interacting with customers and overseeing a recognized engineering department adds an extra layer of satisfaction.
The main competencies and skills needed for a leadership role include people skills, the ability to make fast decisions, flexibility, adaptability to different situations, and technical comprehension. When it comes to problem-solving, my main key is teamwork. Complex problems require focused efforts, and as a leader, I must know how to bring the team together, organize ideas, and produce results in a short time.
I chose ZF because of its reputation for fostering innovation and its commitment to employee growth and development. ZF provided me with the opportunity to grow, starting as an intern. The company's values align with mine, and throughout my nearly 25 years here, I've received all the support I needed, including embracing the most important project of my life – my two children. Despite working in a male-dominated profession, ZF strives to create an inclusive environment with equal opportunities for everyone.
To balance work and personal life, I strive to be well-organized regarding my available time and tasks. Working from home on some days greatly helps me enhance my focus and availability for my family.
Throughout my time at ZF, there have been many memorable achievements, including participating in the TraXon localization project, winning excellence awards, and collaborating with ZF on various social projects over the past years.
If I were to describe ZF as an employer in three words, it would be: Satisfaction, Collaborative, Challenge. Looking ahead, as a #FutureStarter, I see my desire to be part of something better and greater, surrounded by people seeking the best in themselves and others.