Question: Tell us about your company and what you do.
Answer: My host company is DSM and we are a global, science-based company that specializes in health, nutrition, and materials. I work in the American Engineering Plastics division which produces plastics and resins for the automotive, electrical, and packaging industries. I am in the finance department as a financial analyst; helping reconcile accounts and serve as a liaison between our financial services center and customer service. I’ve also had the opportunity to connect with a variety of other departments to facilitate a large, company-wide project. I’m aiding in the collection and organization of materials for a huge internal audit that will be happening near the end of 2013 and requires support from every department within DSM Engineering Plastics.
Question: Describe an accomplishment or contribution you’ve made at your company.
Answer: At DSM, I’ve had the ability to work closely with a variety of departments to assess situations and collect information. I’ve helped uncover and come up with solutions to problems within our accounts receivable and aided in preparations for a large, internal company audit.
Question: What makes working for your company unique?
Answer: DSM itself is such a unique company as it is involved in so many different industries. However, I think its focus on sustainability is what makes DSM so special, especially in the area of plastics where the concept usually isn’t recognized. We strive to create innovative products that reduce the environmental footprint of not only DSM but our customers as well. DSM’s care for the environment and its people are really what make it a great company to work for.
Question: Why do you enjoy working in the Detroit community?
Answer: Growing up here, I always loved southeast Michigan and I am really excited to be back making an impact. Detroit’s story is so unique and being able to work with 29 other inspiring individuals to initiate change has been truly rewarding. Plus, my family and friends are close by making it easier to get them involved in things that I am doing whether that’s with work, give, or play.
Question: What’s the biggest highlight of working at your company?
Answer: The biggest highlight for me is getting to gain new experiences in an area and an industry that I wasn’t entirely familiar with. Going from video production to finance has been a huge change but I’m finding out that I really enjoy all the problem solving that comes with working in finance. I love numbers and being able to analyze situations and come up with important solutions. Thankfully, my position has allowed me to do just that!
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Contributed by fellow Irene Crile