"In man, only two things never grow old - eyes and dreams"
Bulgaria | Tuesday, October 22, 2024
Alexander Stefanov
Production Manager at the Slag Flotation Plant
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Tell us about yourself...
My name is Alexander Stefanov, I am originally from Sofia. I lived in Pirdop for about 7-8 years due to my work at Aurubis Bulgaria, and I am currently considering moving back to the Srednogorie region.
I graduated from the University of Mining and Geology, specializing in Mineral Processing. While working at Aurubis, I decided to embark on a new challenge and enrolled in a second international master's program in Geometallurgy. The program lasted two years, with each semester held in a different country and university. This took me to Belgium, France, Sweden, and Germany. I met many different people and cultures from all over the world, which eventually led me to Brazil. I believe this experience enriched me even further and showed me how colorful the world is. Since then, I haven’t stopped traveling and enjoying new adventures. I visited various mines and metallurgical facilities in Spain, Finland, and Sweden.. -
How would you describe yourself in 3 words?
Always on the move, open to change, ready for new challenges, responsible, conscientious... It ended up being more than 3 words. -
What did you dream of when you were young, and what did you want to become when you grew up?
What did I dream of… I dreamed of being good and always knew that I would be better than I was yesterday. As for my ambitions, I dreamed of driving a large mining truck, which I first saw as a child in a documentary on Discovery Channel. Ever since then, I have always wanted to work with large machines and equipment. The humanities never attracted me, but I was always curious to understand how different products are made and the processes behind them.
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How and when did your career at Aurubis Bulgaria begin?
I started working at the company 15 years ago. I learned about a job opening as an operator at the Slag flotation plant from one of my university professors. They were looking for someone for an interim replacement of a colleague. I had an interview in March. I can well remember the day, as it never stopped snowing, and there was at least 30 cm of snow on the ground. The road from Sofia to Pirdop was completely covered in snow and quite challenging, but that didn’t discourage me – in fact, it motivated me even more. I was approved, and a week later, I began my adventure at Aurubis. This happened during a very interesting period when the Slag Flotation Plant was expanding with the installation of new types of equipment.
I worked through all the positions there, from Operator Level 2 to Operator Level 1 and eventually Shift Leader. I also spent a year as a member of the corporate Continuous Improvement team, where I had the opportunity to learn about the processes at the other plants in the group and work on various projects related to implementing and improving operational processes using Lean methodology. I became familiar with the structure and different types of production in the organization – from primary smelting to copper scrap recycling and refining, as well as processing all the products from the production line. This is done with the goal of reducing waste and environmental impact, creating sustainable processes.
This experience was very enriching, as I once again worked with an international team and together we explored different areas such as digitalization, production, and operational efficiency. -
Why did you choose Aurubis Bulgaria, and what do you value in the organization?
Aurubis chose me, and I chose Aurubis. I wanted to develop in the field of metallurgy, mineral processing, and recycling. It was important for me to gain experience and practice the specialization I studied at university. I always wanted to apply in practice the knowledge I acquired in university.
In the organization, I value the opportunity to work with different teams. I enjoy the dynamic nature of the work and the fact that every day is different from the previous one. We face various challenges daily, which makes the work interesting and demanding. Another thing I find incredibly valuable is that in our organization, there are many opportunities, programs, and trainings that help employees improve their skills. Their qualities and achievements are truly appreciated. -
What is your role in the company now, and what brings you the most satisfaction?
Since the beginning of October, I have been in a new role as Production Manager at the Slag Flotation Plant. The role is challenging and requires a broader perspective on the different teams and making important decisions to efficiently achieve production targets. What gives me the most satisfaction is the opportunity to participate in strategic projects related to waste management and the implementation of new technologies. Processes related to people management are also part of my new role, which adds an extra dimension to the work.
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What are you like, and what do you enjoy outside of Aurubis Bulgaria?
In recent years, I’ve rediscovered skiing, and it brings me great pleasure and satisfaction. Being in the mountains, surrounded by nature, far from the hustle and bustle of city life, and alone with yourself, gives you a real opportunity to enjoy the wind, the snow, the slopes, and even the cold.
I also enjoy traveling, visiting new places, and “encountering” different cultures. -
How do you see your future in the company and beyond? What do you dream o?
I see my development alongside the company in maintaining high production standards, successfully completing ongoing projects, and continuing growth and change. -
What would you say to your future self?
Never give up and always stay true to yourself.. -
What would you say to your colleagues at Aurubis Bulgaria?
No one has become good at what they do without making many big mistakes. Every problem has a solution, no matter how long it takes to solve it.
Will you be our new colleague? There's still a spot open for you in one of our departments!
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Yanka Zaharieva – Koleva
Manager Talent Acquisition & Employer Branding