Can you introduce yourself and tell us about your role in the company?
I am Claudia Gerbes and I have been with ME Elecmetal North America for over 11 years. I started as an Import & Export Administrator in the Logistics area and was recently promoted to Logistics & Transportation Manager. I am based in Minnesota, United States.
My role focuses on coordinating the import of materials not manufactured in our foundries, working with suppliers from various markets such as China, India, Turkey, and South Africa.
I am part of a key process for the business: ensuring that each project has the necessary supplies at the right time. From defining routes to selecting the most efficient port, every logistical decision directly impacts meeting deadlines, cost control, and, above all, the operational continuity of our customers.
What attracted you to ME Elecmetal?
When I received the offer, what motivated me the most was the opportunity to grow with a company with great potential. ME Elecmetal offered me an environment where I could develop professionally, take on new challenges, and build a long-term career.
I was especially attracted to the possibility of being an active part of that growth, contributing from my experience, and continuing to learn constantly. Over time, that expectation has not only been met but exceeded, allowing me to grow both professionally and personally.
How would you describe the culture at ME Elecmetal?
The culture at ME Elecmetal is characterized by being close-knit, collaborative, and trust-based. Despite the company’s growth, it has maintained an environment where people truly know one another, work as a team, and support each other across different areas.
There is open communication where ideas are heard and valued. Personally, I feel empowered to propose solutions, drive improvements, and implement new initiatives, which creates a very dynamic and motivating environment.
Additionally, there is a strong sense of belonging. Understanding the work done by other areas allows us to collaborate with greater empathy and efficiency, reinforcing the idea that we all contribute to the same goal.
What benefits do you value most about working here?
One of the aspects I value most is the work flexibility. The company promotes a real balance between professional and personal life, which is especially important to me as a mother of two children.
The hybrid work model and understanding of family needs allow for better day-to-day organization without compromising commitment to work responsibilities. This is complemented by a culture that promotes well-being and rest, recognizing that good performance also depends on having those spaces.
Could you share an experience related to teamwork, an achievement, or a company event?
Each project represents a different challenge, but there is one in particular that I remember. The delivery depended on all components arriving complete: there were four containers, and the absence of a single piece could compromise the entire project.
Thanks to close coordination among multiple teams and very rigorous planning, we ensured that everything arrived on time, just a few days before installation.
It was a collective achievement that reflected the commitment, collaboration, and teamwork that characterize our company. Experiences like that are what turn every challenge into an opportunity for learning and growth.
“There is open communication where ideas are heard and valued. Personally, I feel empowered to propose solutions, drive improvements, and implement new initiatives, which creates a very dynamic and motivating environment.”
How does your team contribute to solving the challenges of the mining industry?
The Logistics team plays a strategic role within the supply chain. Efficient planning ensures that products arrive on time, avoiding delays that can directly affect our customers' operations.
We continuously analyze variables such as transit times, costs, taxes, transportation capacity, and supplier availability to make informed and efficient decisions.
Our work allows customers to receive the products they need, when they need them, contributing to operational continuity and productivity of their operations.
What excites you most about the future of ME Elecmetal?
What excites me most is the sustained growth of the company and the opportunity to continue being part of that journey.
I am motivated to see how ME Elecmetal continues to expand and consolidate its presence globally. My goal is to continue growing with the organization, contributing from my experience and seeing how that effort translates into innovation, recognition, and leadership within the industry.
Being part of this story and knowing that I have contributed to the company's development is, without a doubt, one of my greatest professional satisfactions.
