The Commercial Solutions Planning team aims to understand the various commercial needs across TRATON and its brands. These can vary between different markets and customers. From here, the team contextualizes these requirements within the wider market landscape to identify opportunities to provide optimal solutions. We endeavor to focus on the projects that will have the greatest impact on TRATON’s strategic priorities and purpose of transforming transportation together. We always aim to take a holistic view, to understand where there may be overlaps between different customer needs across the brands and ensure alignment within our product and service offering.
While I grew up and studied in India, I have spent all my professional life in North America. My work with International has given me an in-depth perspective about this area of the market. Moving to Europe has enabled me to develop a much broader understanding of the Group across multiple regions.
One of the things that enticed me to take on this role was the opportunity to learn about the sister brands Scania, MAN and Volkswagen Truck & Bus and what is happening at the Group level. The ability to build my network across the brands was a bonus. In the Södertälje office, we are extremely fortunate to have representation from all TRATON brands. I work with a diverse range of colleagues from all over the world, including Brazil, Germany, and China. Aside from their invaluable market knowledge, different colleagues also bring a wealth of experience from across various vehicle platforms, whether heavy- or light-duty vehicles or buses.
From this vantage point, it is clear how the activities of the brands contribute towards a common goal, which really reinforces the sense of being part of something bigger. This is most apparent when it comes to sustainability, and it is encouraging to see all the progress across the Group.
My new colleagues have been very welcoming, often going out of their way to help when needed. Between meetings and the program of social and cultural events, there have been monthly GPM “Fika” opportunities to get to know colleagues and feel more at home. My time here so far has also given me a new appreciation of the cultural nuances between the US and Sweden. There seems to be a much greater emphasis on work-life balance here. Despite some cultural differences, our similarities are always greater since we all share the same need for connection and belonging within our family and the wider community.
I am trying to fully embrace the culture and am making steady progress with my Swedish. However, this is no easy task given most people have a remarkably high command of English. I am yet to experience my first full Swedish winter and expect it will take some adjustment when the darker and colder months arrive. There is a strong expat community in Stockholm: it feels nice to be part of a supportive network. Stockholm offers fantastic culinary diversity, although I must admit there are times when I miss the spices and ingredients of Indian cuisine. That said, the Swedish cardamom buns are delicious and remind me of the flavors of home.
For anyone considering living and working abroad, I highly recommend it. Both personally and professionally, the growth opportunity is tremendous. Getting out of your comfort zone can be scary but it also gives a deep sense of accomplishment with each hurdle you overcome, and you learn more about your own capabilities.
Greetings from Södertälje
Monisha
