More than 30 years of full dedication - Rolf Herrmann looks back on his time as subsidiary manager and technology enthusiast at SCHNEEBERGER USA

1. How has the company in Elgin changed over the past 30 years, and which developments have impressed you most?

From two offices and a small area for demonstrations and spare parts, we have grown into our own 10,000 sq. ft. facility. Roughly every ten years, our continued growth in both headcount and business volume has led us to expand into larger premises. What has always impressed me most about our company is its strong drive for innovation, as well as the continuous development of our machine portfolio and software solutions

2. What were the biggest challenges you faced during your time as branch manager, and how did you overcome them?

I think going up against established competitors and growing the company with sales and service. Consistency wins the race. There was never a moment to sit still and feel depressed.

3. What achievements and milestones during your career at the company are you proud of?

I am proud to have been given the opportunity to design and oversee the acquisition of our building. Jürg Schneeberger entrusted me with this important milestone. Managing the construction of the facility while continuing to sell machines and lead the company was both a challenge and a rewarding experience. Opening and developing the markets in Brazil and Mexico are also highlights of my professional journey and achievements within the company.

4. What advice would you give to young leaders starting their careers today?

Managing a small company is not only about leading and delegating. In my view, it requires a hands-on approach and the willingness to lead by example. Persistence and resilience are essential - giving up is never an option. Each new day brings challenges, but also accomplishments as well as solutions.

5. How did you manage to stay motivated and committed for so many years?

This really is a matter of personality. I am a very positive person; my glass is always half full. Naturally we all have days that are cloudy, but there will always be light at the end of the tunnel. Not to say it was always easy. Throughout these years, I had the support of my family. I spend a lot of time on the road but always managed to devote and find time for the family.

6. Are there any projects or initiatives that you have started that are particularly important to you?

Projects like the Pratt & Whitney’s automated cell as well as MAAG’s double machine cell are ideas I dreamed up and proposed to the factory. SCHNEEBERGER is an engineering company and always willing to go the extra mile and follow through with great solutions.

7. How has your work influenced your life outside the company, and how have you found a balance between your professional and private life?

Given the task of starting a company, earning the respect and trust of the owners forms your personality. In the beginning being all alone forced me to become very independent. And again, the support of my family is the most important aspect. I had the freedom to work flexible enough to spend time being a dad and husband.

8. What are your plans and goals for your retirement, and are there things you want to do now that you didn't have time for during your career?

My wife and I will move to Phoenix Arizona where we will travel the beautiful West with our Camper, hike the Phoenix mountains and enjoy our little oasis with the pool. Also, I am restoring our 1968 Triumph Spitfire and can’t wait to drive with my wife around Arizona.

9. Could you briefly introduce our “new” team?

We have a great mixture of people working for us. Christian Straub will take over the management of the company but also service a sales territory. David Zurowski has a lot of tooling knowledge as well as a keen understanding of machines and the commercial sales aspect. Carl Cavallo services the West Coast in sales and service, a great combination. Nothing goes without Erwin Pfister. He and his awesome team keep our customers happy and machines running as well as solving application challenges. Equally important is our dedicated staff in administration and inventory. Their training, experience, and commitment are vital to the smooth operation of our company and make them an indispensable part of the team.

Thank you Rolf. It was a great pleasure working with you!