People at ALPLA - Interview with Ngoc Truong

Hi Ngoc, thanks for taking your time. Can you tell us what you are doing at ALPLA? 

I joined ALPLA Vietnam in 2014 as a Plant Packaging Manager. In 2024, I was given the opportunity to take on a new role in Program Management, where I am going to support the start-up of new projects across the Asia Pacific region.

Your professional journey at ALPLA is remarkable, can you tell us, how you developed within our organization?

Working in product development showed that I am always eager to learn new things. I enjoy communicating with colleagues from different countries and discovering new cultures. I believe this curiosity and openness helped me grow and prepared me for the new opportunity I have now.

What has been the favorite project you have been working on at ALPLA so far?

For me, it was the Chachoengsao project. It confirmed to me that taking this new career step was the right decision — and I am very happy I said yes to it.

Which role does continuous improvement play in your daily work?

Continuous improvement is very important to me. It helps me optimize processes, exchange feedback, make better decisions, and, most importantly, continue learning and developing myself.

Let us know something about you personally as well. So, what are your favorite hobbies?

I love cooking for my family, friends, and colleagues. For me, preparing a good meal is like managing a project: it requires preparation, planning, execution, and a proper closing. I also enjoy the conversations and sharing that happen during the whole process — they help me learn and understand more about people. Besides cooking, I enjoy running, swimming, yoga, and traveling to places with beautiful natural landscapes.

What is your favorite place in the world?

I appreciate every place I have visited, because each country has given me a unique and valuable experience.

Can you share a unique saying in your language with us?

“Xin chào” – it means “Hello.” Whoever visits Vietnam will quickly see that people here are very friendly and kind.

If you got one additional hour a day, what would you spend it on?

I would use it to reflect on my day — what I did well and what I could do better next time.

Back to ALPLA: You already made a remarkable journey. What advice would you give to colleagues who are just starting there career at ALPLA?

I would tell them: welcome to our family – the ALPLA family.

If you could switch job with someone, who would it be?

Honestly, no one. I have just started in my new role, and I am very excited about it. I would not want to switch with anyone right now.

Please describe ALPLA in your own three words!

My second family.

Thanks, Ngoc.