Jonas Janiunas, project engineer, Netherlands

Insights into Avery Dennison early career program

Years with AD

2.5

Attribute

Engineer

Interest

Athlete

Why were you interested in Operations, and what made you choose the Avery Dennison European Graduate Program?

The decision to be in the manufacturing environment combines my dad's influence and personal learning. From when I was young, my dad would take me to work, where I would see machines and people working together. “How?” and “Why?” were my favorite questions for my dad, and they led me to mechanical engineering studies. However, I have realized I do not want a job where I only sit behind my desk designing parts. So, when I was looking for a combination of a technical, dynamic, collaborative and creative job, operations/manufacturing and project engineering were on top of the list. To succeed in this job, I need to master technical and leadership skills, making the future exciting! This is where Avery Dennison's Early Career Program (ECP) comes into play. It is a structured road map to help me with this challenge. It provides attention, exposure and opportunities.

How have you experienced the culture at Avery Dennison?

I have worked in two Avery Dennison locations, Cramlington in England and Alphen aan den Rijn in the Netherlands. Both of these manufacturing facilities felt like the people working there were a family. People care about each other, want to make a difference, and businesses succeed. This family feeling lets you talk to anyone regardless of their position, and the ideas can flow "bottom" to "top" which makes me feel empowered. It is a big corporation, but I do not feel small within it.

What do you see as the biggest personal benefit of your work so far?

Growth of my work network. Over two years, I got to know many people at different levels with different responsibilities. I feel like I can rely on it, and this group of people is crucial for my career progression.

What is your greatest achievement in the company so far?

There is a quote that says people will not remember what you did, but how you made them feel. So, I hope my greatest achievement is positively affecting my colleagues at work and outside of work. I really try to help solve problems, take over tasks, and share knowledge, but I also build relationships, have conversations, and make them smile and laugh.

How do you experience the rotations during the European Graduate Program?

It is an opportunity to step out of my comfort zone, learn to adapt while remaining myself, and experience different cultures and ways of working. Also, for those still questioning their career path, it is a great chance to explore various roles and find the best fit.

I hope my greatest achievement is positively affecting my colleagues at work and outside of work.

How have you grown in your career at Avery Dennison?

I focus on interpersonal skills to be a successful future leader. Exposure through various projects and situations made me better at working with people. I am learning how to build relationships and trust

What role has mentorship played in your career?

Mentors were and still are key to my personal development. They provide me with business insight, which helps me better understand management decisions. They also help me navigate difficult conversations at work and give advice on how to deal with career progression. My mentors are great examples of leaders that I can learn from.

What advice can you offer to others?

The most crucial thing within this organization is to always remember to speak up because people cannot read your mind. The organization's size allows it to solve problems and find solutions.

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