INTERVIEW
ABSEN’S CHRISTIAN CZIMNY TPi’s Jacob Waite speaks to Absen’s European R&D Director, Christian Czimny about the company’s rental prowess…
Having spent the last 15 years at LANG AG looking after the group’s LED products, Christian Czimny made the decision to move to Absen, taking on the role of European R&D Director. “As one of the largest and most reputable LED manufacturers, moving to Absen was the logical next step,” began Czimny. “The role allows me to put to good use my experience and knowledge of dealing with our European rental customers and ensure that this gets fed back into the product development process at Absen’s China-based HQ and manufacturing facilities.” With over 1,500 employees working across eight international subsidiaries, as a relatively new starter Czimny was amazed by the “strong spirit and culture of the company” which places a lot of emphasis on training and development. He explained: “I always saw Absen as a very stable and dynamic company, and the last nine months have confirmed my impressions,” he continued. “I am able to work effectively with different colleagues from across the organisation to develop and bring new products to market.” Assigned to focus primarily on Absen’s European customers, Czimny’s goal is to further strengthen and expand its position in the market,
supported by an extensive range of rental staging products, working in close communication and cooperation with the company’s counterparts in the R&D department. “Communication is absolutely essential, but it obviously has its challenges at a Chinese company. Not everyone in the R&D team speaks English and cross-cultural collaboration requires patience and understanding. On top of that, you also have the time difference to factor in to your daily schedule.” Having earned the title of number one Chinese export brand for 10 years running, Czimny sees the mantle as a benchmark for Absen’s European operation. “We are very proud of this achievement and it is a testament to the dedication and hard work that goes into developing products that meet the ever-changing and stringent requirements of our European and global customers. That said, we are not about to rest on our laurels. Anyone with life experience knows that it is a special challenge to hold this kind of position, so we have to constantly reflect on which things lead to success and which must be improved, in order to remain relevant.” Czimny went on to expand the European market portfolio and its increased presence on the continent. “There is plenty of space for everyone to play and if you look at Europe from an international perspective, in terms 62
