An unlikely dream team
At first glance, they have little in common. Rebeca Contreras is 35 and Spanish. The trained welder came to Germany to work in logistics. Bernd Heeres, on the other hand, is 61, a trained data processing agent and only came to logistics after working in other jobs. Now they work side by side in Production Management at System Alliance’s main handling facility in Niederaula. What unites them is their enthusiasm for their work and their common pursuit of first-class results.
Passionate about logistics
Rebeca Contreras came to Germany to help out at a large logistics company during the Christmas season for two months. But instead of returning to Spain and her welding job as planned, she stayed in Germany – in logistics. Since April 2023, she has been working at System Alliance Hub Betriebsgesellschaft in Niederaula. “Rebecca has been an absolute stroke of luck for us,” says her colleague, Bernd Heeres. He has been working for the company since 2010. He began his logistics career began as a commercial employee on a 450-euro basis. For him it was a new career field: “I just wanted to give it a go, just out of interest. And then I really got into it!” he says.
Together, they form the Production Management team at the Hub. “We are responsible for controlling processes, allocating tasks and personnel planning,” explains Contreras, with Heeres adding: “We pay strict attention to ensuring that traffic that arrives on time is also processed on time. Our job is to ensure that the Hub runs smoothly and that we all work carefully according to the rules.” They support their colleagues in the hall as best they can, provide feedback and guide processes. “Working here is really fun!” summarises Heeres. “The atmosphere is good and we treat each other flexibly but respectfully, stick together and remain dynamic in the search for solutions.” Contreras agrees: “We move in the same direction. If someone doesn't understand something, we try to talk to them, explain things and exchange ideas. We also learn a lot from our employees.”
Our priorities: Successes and appreciation
Contreras particularly appreciates the motivation and helpfulness of her colleagues: “Our approach is very familial and personal. Good performance and effort is appreciated. You are not just a number,” she says. “We are always looking for people who not only focus on their own tasks, but also want to work together in a team. Colleagues help each other!” The pair strongly agree on the topic of appreciation and Heeres sums it up as follows: “Good ideas are heard and implemented by management, initiative is seen and rewarded.” According to Heeres, the two can achieve success for the Hub in the team and thus create tangible added value for customers: “It is instantly evident that our work is beneficial for our customers. For example, the proportion of special trips has fallen, but the quality of priority services has increased.”
Arrived just in time
When asked about his professional future, Heeres answers: “I hope that I can continue to work in this company for as long as possible.” Contreras has similar plans, because she can realise her potential as a manager in the Hub. “Of course, as a young woman, especially a foreigner, you are more likely to be challenged. But I already saw many women in management positions at my old employer. I don’t see logistics as a male domain,” she says. “Now I feel very comfortable in my role. I bring a lot of experience and therefore ideas with me that I can use to bring about improvements.” She can rely on the team and senior management: “I felt comfortable from day one, we work extremely well together.” Heeres appreciates her perspective and commitment: “It’s a lot of fun working with her. We can completely rely on each other and our team.”
Together they start the night shift at around 6 p.m. in a positive mood. At 2:30 a.m., she and the rest of the team finish work. “You always have to expect the unexpected, but I want to start my shift with a good feeling and also end it with a good feeling,” says Heeres. Contreras laughs: “Bernd always says what I want to say.” And adds: “For me it’s about inner satisfaction, good communication and a good mood! I want to give 100 per cent, but also have fun.” The two have definitely made their mark at the System Alliance HUB.
