Simone Piccolo, Product Manager, Electrolux

In order to help current students and recent graduates to find their way in the working world, many of our alumni shared their career story. Here the story of Simone Piccolo, Product Manager in Electrolux in Zurich (CH). USI Degree: Master in Economics and International Policies, 2011.

How did you start your career?

I started testing different paths in order to find my own way, at the beginning in a consulting firm, then in the fashion industry as analyst and in the jewelry and home decor business as product marketing responsible and afterwards in the interior design business as area manager.

Why did you choose a career in Electrolux?

After few experiences in the home decor and interior design business, I decided to remain in this field and become a specialist. Electrolux gave me the opportunity to grow in my role as product manager and to follow the entire production flow, from briefing to launch, of a full assortment, coordinating the internal production and external suppliers It also gave me the chance to start to work in German and in an international company but with a strong presence in the Swiss market.

What is your current role/duties?

I'm currently responsible for the product development and launch of HOT products (Ovens, Freestanding Cookers, GAS products, Design Hoods and
Hobs...) and I coordinate the communication between the local cluster in Switzerland and the central headquarter in Sweden when it comes to product assortments, according to the market needs and specific requests.

In your opinion, what are the qualities necessary for a successful career in Electrolux?

Electrolux values energy, openness, agility and personal growth as company's behaviors. It is a company where the personal development is strongly supported and where leadership is present, visible and stable. Despite the demanding and fast pace global environment, Electrolux will allow you to develop business and personal skills, encouraging internal mobility at the same time. Key is to stay flexible and open to confrontation and being able to work together with your team.

What positive aspects and qualities meant most to you during the study programme you attended?

A wide study program, open to many fields and economic and social aspects.

What competences and/or skills acquired in your USI Study Program have been useful/are useful to your professional career?

Definitely the attention to details and the ability to work in stress situations, which we had to acquire during the quite intense tests' phase.

What is your advice to USI students entering the job market?

Just start, try, experience as much as possible before becoming a specialist.