Career News
September 18, 2020

People Insights: Sondra

"Life means changes". For me, the same applies likewise "life means development." Sondra, part of the "HR Special Sourcing" team, is involved in the recruitment and selection processes used for hard-to-fill vacancies. In our People Insights, she talks about her passion for dancing, the most exciting topics as a "Special Sourcer" and which animal she would most likely turn into.

Everyone has a passion - what does your heart beat for? 

My heart beats for dancing. I have been doing classical and modern ballet since early childhood. Later on, Irish Dancing was added, known from the show "Riverdance". Regular training is very important to me, it strengthens the body and brings good spirits.

What does development mean to you?

Proverbially, "life means change". For me, "life means development" also applies: to act, shape and take responsibility yourself with the goal of improvement. In relation to my previous life and career path, I have moved and developed in many different directions. After my studies in cultural and social sciences, I was able to join Evonik in the HR department and get to know many HR areas. In 2017, I became part of the "HR Special Sourcing" team and completed a master's degree in personnel and organizational development while working. The direct link between scientific theory and experienced professional practice is of great value to me! Accordingly, I wrote my thesis on change management at Evonik, in the project “Sourcing 4.0”. 

What is the exciting thing about "HR Special Sourcing" for you?

As a "Special Sourcer" we are involved in personnel recruitment and selection processes, which are used for hard-to-fill vacancies. If there are many applications, we use aptitude diagnostics to identify the most suitable candidates. Internal and regional recruitment is also an important issue: with the help of various candidate pools and networks, we can support colleagues in finding alternative positions - a sensible, efficient and cost-effective way of keeping our employees in the company.

If you could be an animal - which one would you choose? 

I would choose a bear. She is strong but not aggressive and reacts flexibly to external circumstances: While she appears fundamentally calm and composed, she can run up to 50 km/h when it counts. In addition, she does not stay rigidly in one place, but also undertakes hikes to new areas.

Which characteristics do your friends find typical for you? 

I am often asked when there is something to plan or organize. Furthermore, my friends consider me to be very diplomatic, honest and impartial. However, this is connected with the fact that sometimes seemingly insignificant decisions are difficult for me.

Which Evonik site would you like to visit and why? 

I would like to visit the Sandnes site in Norway. I would like to experience the impressive landscape and Scandinavian culture first-hand.

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