We bring people and data together

Where are innovative products developed? In research and development, of course. Or maybe not? At ALTANA, researchers play a key role in finding solutions. But the company additionally puts strong emphasis on interdisciplinary and cross-divisional collaboration in product development. As a result, some inspiring ideas for new solutions may even come from the procurement departments.

Sustainable product solutions are becoming an increasingly central focus. “We work closely with suppliers and carefully examine the products available on the market, as well as whether we can purchase them in the required quantities,” explains Dr. Frederic Folwaczny, ALTANA’s Chief Procurement Officer, offering insight into the process. The purchase price is only one of many considerations. Availability, and particularly the quality and properties of products, are also critical factors. “When we identify new products on the market, such as bio-based precursors, we exchange ideas with our research teams to enhance our formulations in the long term,” says Folwaczny.

Purchasing brings people together
As Category Manager Oliver Schel works closely with suppliers – and with colleagues from various divisions and functional areas. His role goes beyond that of a traditional purchasing manager. “A very important part of my work is bringing people together and strengthening collaboration,” says Schel. He leads by example. Originally from Bremen, where he began his career at ACTEGA, Schel still considers the city his home. But as Category Manager, he now works across all divisions.

Recently, he led a workshop with researchers from BYK and ACTEGA. “Our goal was to harmonize the database between the divisions and make it transparent and accessible for everyone, in order to create an optimal decision-making basis for both research and purchasing,” explains Oliver Schel.

Leveraging the added value of data
Data is a central component for collaboration. It creates transparency and enables targeted action. “Data is important,” says Dr. Frederic Folwaczny. “But the key is colleagues like Oliver Schel, who work with it. We offer regular training courses to show how we can harmonize and analyze data. This ensures that everyone can find the information they need in the system.”

The synergy between digital transformation and close company-wide collaboration exemplifies ALTANA AG’s Keep Changing Agenda for the future. As a driver of innovation, the company is constantly evolving while building on core values and shared goals. This foundation enables interdisciplinary teams across the company to develop exceptional and customized product solutions with a strong customer focus. One successful example of this: the ACTEGA and BYK colleagues with whom Oliver Schel recently held the workshop.