Konz - a workplace full of opportunity, growth, and purpose
Established in 1897, Volvo CE's Konz site is a cornerstone of innovation and collaboration. Home to more than 1,000 employees, the site supports a wide range of functions including Operations, Research and Development, a Prototype and Testing Center, Purchasing, and a Training and Customer Support Center. It also features a Demo and Test Drive Area. The team here specializes in the development and production of wheeled excavators, compact wheel loaders, electric machines and custom-built solutions.
Johanna Beck, a local to Konz, was drawn to stay not only by the natural beauty of the region, but also by Volvo CE’s purpose-driven culture.
"You can feel the team spirit. Here in Konz, we are all pulling in the same direction. We’ve overcome challenges together, and that pride fuels us to tackle what’s ahead. It’s inspiring to be able to motivate a change in mindsets and see positive results. We have a real opportunity to makes sure we not only do better for the environment, but also create a safe work environment for people across our business and beyond.”
The Head of Operations, Tommy Bengtsson, brings more than four decades of Volvo experience to Konz. Originally from Sweden, Tommy has enjoyed international assignments in Poland and Sweden before joining the team in Germany. Despite its scale and complexity, Konz maintains a strong sense of belonging.
Tommy shares: “There is a strong Volvo culture across sites. Volvo CE is very people-centric; going to work is like getting together and collaborating with like-minded individuals towards shared goals. One of the most rewarding aspects of my career has been supporting others and watching them grow.”
Professional development is woven into life at Konz, as seen by Paolo Mannesi’s journey. After nine years in Operations - Finance, Paolo transitioned into Technology as a Global Product Manager for compact wheel loaders and now serves as Electromobility Solutions Sales Manager within Sales Region Europe. For him, opportunity and curiosity drive engagement.
"If you feel you have endless opportunities for where you can grow, you are motivated and engaged in the work you are doing. Every time you move, you learn new things about yourself, you broaden your horizons and most importantly you increase your knowledge and network.”
At a large multi-functional site like Konz, there are always opportunities for fresh experiences. With 16 years in Purchasing, Andreas Kasel chose to switch gears and take on a new challenge in the Technology team – an experience that broadened his view of the business.
"When you stay long in the same organization, you can easily become blind to what’s going on around you. In my new role, I’m working with new colleagues, and it’s been a real eye opener to learn more about other aspects of our business. Moving around is what keeps an organization exciting.”
And there are always exciting opportunities around the corner, as Christian Fleischmann discovered. Born and raised in Konz, a six-week assignment at Volvo CE’s site in Pederneiras, Brazil proved to be transformational.
"Experiencing something different was refreshing. A six-week stay allowed me to truly participate, be part of a project, and bring back ideas we can replicate here in Konz. What really stands out is that at Volvo CE you’re in good hands wherever you are in the world. Our people are warm and welcoming.”
Whilst an important local employer, Volvo CE’s site in Konz also attracts professionals from around the world who value its outdoor lifestyle and inclusive workplace culture. Originally from Egypt, Senior Commodity Buyer Khaled Atta moved to Konz, and found a true sense of belonging.
"The people, the working environment and the inclusion and culture. All of these things are really evident in the workplace, and it helps to build trust and focus together with the people you work with. We are empowered to develop ourselves, develop our peers and think about how to drive forward the business and sustainability.”
With its rich cultural diversity, collaborative spirit, and innovative mindset, Konz offers a workplace experience that is as dynamic and rewarding as its surroundings.
Find out more about our Konz site.