Szabolcs Kállai

26.01.2024

Managing Director Trocellen Automotive Hungary

When did you join the company? What was your first position?

I have been with the company since June 2009 (for 14 years). I started as a Sales Manager in the Automotive and Tape business unit(s), responsible for Central and Eastern Europe (CEE).

Tell us about your background and qualifications.

I am an environmental engineer and a teacher of engineering (MsC -2003) by training. I graduated with an MBA in Economics while working here in 2018.

What led to your appointment?

I’ve held various positions in the company. My appointments were always brought about by life, as the market environment and business strategy evolved.

Between 2009 and 2019 I was Sales Manager for the Automotive and Adhesive Foams divisions. I also had other Project Management responsibilities and acted as a liaison between the Automotive and the Polifoam business units.

Between 2020 and 2022 I was responsible for the creation of the new automotive plant (CCA (Converting Center Automotive) as Operations Manager. I was involved in the reorganisation of this factory as a separate company, which is how TAH, Trocellen Automotive Hungary Kft. was established.

I am the Managing Director of this company from 1 January 2023.

What are your key responsibilities today?

Managing the company, developing the overall strategy and meeting the set budget. Ensuring the necessary conditions for operation, planning, organising and managing the company’s activities, taking into account customer expectations and profitable operation.

You joined the company 14 years ago. Why do you still like working here?

The company offers diverse and challenging opportunities. From the very first moment, I am impressed by the supportive, diverse and highly professional staff.

Share something with us about your private life, about your hobbies so that we can get to know you a little bit better. Is a work-life balance difficult to achieve?

I am a happy father of two lively children (7 and 4 years old). I love my family, I spend most of my free time with them. When I have time, I dive, ski, do handicrafts, play ping pong, travel, play with my dogs… I love water and water-related sports.

It’s not easy to balance, and I have to admit I find it difficult to separate them. I am consciously working on this, for example by taking up regular exercise again.

What is your advice for new hires? What should they do to have such a successful career at Trocellen?

Look for challenges, be proactive, efficient and brisk!