Sebastian's Passion for Sales in Diverse Cultures  

“I never planned to spend so many years abroad. Back in 2004, when I left the familiar streets of Argentina for Frankfurt, I didn't realize I was starting a two-decade journey that would reshape my entire life.

My curiosity for international business started to grow after watching my colleagues at the former Degussa Argentina negotiate in foreign languages and travel regularly. For me, a career in sales represented an escape from routine, offering opportunities to meet new people and experience different cultures.

“Commercial roles have captured my heart completely!”

The International Sales and Marketing (ISAM) program of Evonik came as an unexpected opportunity, allowing me to work for one year each in Germany, Brazil, and the United States. After completing the project, I landed my first sales position in Singapore, overseeing Southeast Asia. This experience marked a turning point, transforming my appreciation for diversity, cultural traditions, and cross-cultural learning into a genuine passion for people.

Among all my professional experiences, commercial roles have captured my heart completely. What does this passion for people mean to me? It means listening before acting, embracing mistakes as learning opportunities, and beginning each day with renewed determination. It means collecting experiences that build wisdom.

“Sometimes I wonder about the roads not taken, the career paths I might have followed”

I've heard various perspectives about expatriate life. Some say the benefits include financial savings and a career booster after having worked in multiple countries. Let me share my truth: Living in six different countries and traveling to more than 50 has been the greatest gift, both professionally and personally. This journey hasn't just broadened my perspective; it's given me confidence in cross-cultural interactions. 

I've learned that connecting with people's hearts is always possible – it's just a matter of patience and persistence depending on the country you are. After forming my own family, I had one remaining wish: to give them the same opportunities I had. This motivation sustained me through our three years in Norway. Being back in Germany, some benefits of being intercultural paid off immediately: the kids adapted to their new kindergarten – new teachers, friends, and language – in just a week.

Sure, sometimes I wonder about the roads not taken, the career paths I might have followed if I'd stayed put. But then I look at the family we've built, the friendships we've forged, the memories we've collected, and I can't help but smile. Even on the toughest days, these thoughts light up my world.

My kids are still young, and I don't know if they'll inherit my wanderlust. But I've planted the seeds of curiosity and openness in their hearts. And for that opportunity – that first chance Evonik gave me to step into the unknown – I'll always be grateful.”