Olga Levkovych
Please tell us a few words about yourself and your career path.
My name is Olga, I am 24 and I am from Ukraine. Having finished the university in the Netherlands and completed several internships in the field of supply chain and logistics, I started looking for an entry job that would let me stay and nourish my interest in becoming a procurement expert. I joined RHI Magnesita in January 2022 as a Global Purchasing Trainee and by now have already completed two challenging rotational assignments within supplier management and raw materials portfolio analysis.
Why exactly did you apply?
For me, it was important to work in a company with flat hierarchy where you are encouraged to participate in decision-making process, bring ideas to the table and be an active contributor of change. Given its cross-functional and international assignments, the Global Trainee Program makes a holistic entry point; it also provides an opportunity to build a wide professional network and therefore higher career development potential. Extra point for the Rotterdam location – it’s a big modern international city, which somehow reminds me of my hometown in Ukraine.
What is your current role and how does your day look like?
Currently, I am doing my cross-functional assignment with the Recycling team that complements Procurement in closing the loop for raw materials. There is a lot to learn: from the process of converting the used products into circular raw materials to the environmental and economic benefits it entails. Simultaneously, I need to deliver on global data consolidation project, price analysis and KPI creation tasks.
What’s been your most exciting project to date?
It was my very first assignment, which required analysis of procurement activities across all company regions. First of all, it gave me a good start in developing a better understanding of the company's operations and helped acquire a significant professional network in a relatively short period of time. Eventually, the multipurpose tool was created, allowing for a consolidated and comprehensive approach to strategic sourcing, which in turn helped me build valuable relationships with people from different backgrounds and cultures.
What’s the most unexpected skill you’ve gained at RHI Magnesita?
I would say prioritizing opportunities over mistakes that are inevitable during a learning path. The ability to learn from mistakes rather than letting them hold you back develops resilience and self-confidence as well as fosters a growth mindset – this is essential for achieving a long-term success.
What’s the best part about life at RHI Magnesita?
It’s never boring. Our people are open-minded and friendly. The working environment is engaging and exciting. RHI Magnesita is a big global company that offers exposure to a wide range of projects and challenges to take on. Together with the support of colleagues, who are easy to approach and are willing to answer questions, I am able to develop professional knowledge and gain new skills much faster.
Any advice to people who consider applying?
Be ready to be flexible; but also stand up for shaping your experience during this traineeship. The company is dynamic as the ever-changing world. Take it or leave it. RHI Magnesita is searching for pragmatic, positive, and optimistic people. Sounds relatable? Apply now!