At Bakelite, we’re proud of the diverse experiences, talents and backgrounds of our global associates. We each have our own Bakelite story, and in this series – My Bakelite Story – we highlight associates in different locations, departments and career stages, each putting their fingerprints on the organization in their own unique ways. These stories shine a light on our various roles and how they contribute to our vision and mission at Bakelite.
Below we highlight Master Data and Procurement Process Specialist Deepa Ramjiawan. Learn more about Deepa’s role and her career insights below.
Q: What is your role at Bakelite? How has it changed over the years?
A: Currently, I am in the Contract Admin team. I focus on maintaining vendor master data for the EU and contract administration for the EU (specifically raw materials and packaging). I am also involved in projects, like the recently SAP integration of our acquired companies and LRBG. I’m currently involved in the integration project for Chile and Argentina.
Q: When did you join Bakelite? What were you doing before then?
A: I started with Hexion in 2005 within the Office Management team, and after a couple of years I moved to Procurement as a Contract Admin. I joined Bakelite upon the reorganization. Before that, I was working on a campsite in France for a year. And before that, while studying I had several side jobs, like in a supermarket, a butcher and doing administrative work for a lawyer.
Q: What’s the best part about your job at Bakelite? What makes this place different from others?
A: The best part about working at Bakelite is working with so many different people, different processes and different cultures. There are always new, exciting projects to work on, and my work is never boring at Bakelite.
Q: What’s your advice to someone considering working at Bakelite?
A: The diversity of people, the challenges and the projects keep your work interesting. Even with all the diversity, we are still one.
Q: In your experience, how has Bakelite supported you through career or life changes?
A: I always had the feeling that Bakelite values me as a person, and that I have the full support of my team and manager. I feel that my personal wellbeing is considered here.
I appreciate that Bakelite has a strong focus on safety, not only in the office, but also after working hours. We start our team meetings with a safety moment, and most of them are personal experiences, like walking with headphones, the usage of sun protection and using your phone on the streets. These are simple, intentional things we can be mindful of, so it is good to have a little reminder to be aware of these “little” things.
Q: Do you have a favorite Bakelite memory?
A: In June, our entire team met in Atlanta. It was good to get together in person. We had productive meetings, good brainstorm sessions, an interesting HR workshop, nice dinners and a team event. It was also very nice to meet other Atlanta colleagues and put faces with names.
Q: Is there a group/person at Bakelite that has had a particularly big impact on your career?
A: The entire procurement organization is an open and warm team. I appreciate the open environment, the respect we have towards one another, and the feeling of being part of the team. I believe this makes it easy to speak up in case of concerns, doubts or other issues.
Q: How do you mentor colleagues who are newer to Bakelite?
A: We have to be patient and share knowledge with new colleagues. There are so many different aspects in our role, and it takes time to learn this. New colleagues should feel free to ask and learn. Providing trainings and having good documentation can give support and help new associates learn processes and organizational structures.
Q: How does your work contribute to Bakelite’s mission and vision? How would you say you are you putting your fingerprints on the organization?
A: My team is in contact with a lot of different people, departments and functions. When we create processes, we have an effect on other people and departments. The order and organization we bring to the business in our area is an essential part of Bakelite serving its customers.