People at ALPLA – Interview with Sandro Manfio

Hi Sandro, you are kind of an ALPLA globetrotter. Can you give us some insight into your journey within the ALPLA world?
 

I began my journey at ALPLA in Brazil in 2013 as the first regional maintenance manager. My role involved developing the department and supporting our plants to enhance maintenance performance. The real success came from the dedication and hard work of the local teams. Wanting European experience for my family, we moved to England, where I worked as maintenance manager at Port Sunlight. This was an excellent opportunity, and I learned a lot, especially adapting to the Liverpool accent and a totally different culture over three years.

I then applied for the position of regional maintenance manager for Central Eastern Europe, overseeing around 25 plants. My responsibilities included harmonising maintenance standards and reducing stress in the work environment. I now work at corporate level, developing worldwide standards. My family and I live in Eastern Austria, and I work from the CEEU headquarters near Vienna. I frequently travel and visit the headquarters in Hard to stay connected with my corporate colleagues.

You are now working as the Corporate Maintenance Manager EBM in our headquarters. Can you describe your job in a way you would describe it to a child?
 

My job is to help maintenance managers in the regions and plants. I make sure everything is working well and the right amount of resources are used. Maintenance ensures that all the machines and plants work smoothly. It is important to take care of the machines, and to make things even better. And if something does break, to fix it as fast as possible. My job is to support the people who do this.

You have tremendous experience at ALPLA. What project stands out in your career so far?
 

We have achieved many great things. Brazil is now at a very high standard, as is the CEEU – but the success is not solely due to me. I am just one cog in a larger machine. I am proud of my job and the small part I play in ALPLA’s success. However, I cannot claim any individual achievements. It’s never about just one person – if I cannot engage the people in the factories, I cannot succeed. It’s always a team effort.

How does a typical day at ALPLA look for you?
 

My days are very dynamic, especially now that I work at the corporate level, dealing with almost 50 countries and 200 locations. In our CEEU region, I managed ten different countries with ten different languages and cultures, which was already quite challenging. Nowadays, I interact with even more diverse environments, constantly challenging people and being challenged in return. There are no boring days.

So are you busy meeting people?
 

Yes, I am indeed very busy meeting people. I prefer to be physically present at the plants rather than just communicating digitally. It is essential to understand the problems first-hand and develop effective solutions together with the colleagues on-site. While numbers can provide some insights, they do not always tell the full story. Being on the ground allows me to grasp the reality of the situation and work closely with the team to find the best solutions.

You have worked in different locations around the globe – which place is your favourite place on earth?
 

Well, Brazil – home is always appealing with its vibrant culture and delicious cuisine. The United Kingdom also offered a wonderful experience for both me and my family. Now in Austria, we truly enjoy the weather here, how the seasons are so distinctly defined. I appreciate the fresher, colder days during the winter.

What are your favourite things to do in your free time?
 

I love cooking. Cooking helps me relax. With an Italian mother and a Portuguese father, I have a deep appreciation for both Italian and Portuguese cuisines. 

In my free time with my family, I love being outdoors. Even though my kids aren’t as interested any more – it’s an age thing, I guess. They are both teenagers and I adapt to their interests. I play video games with my son and watch Formula 1 with my daughter, as she’s really into it. However, every other week, I insist on going out – whether it’s hiking, going to the movies, or something else.

Imagine you get one more hour a day. What would you use it for?
 

I think I would use this extra hour to spend more time with my family. Since I travel frequently, my family time is quite limited, and any additional time with them would be precious.

Let’s get back to ALPLA: what advice would you give to someone who has just started the career at ALPLA?
 

ALPLA is a fast-moving, challenging, fair and motivating company. If you do your best and give your best, the company gives back. ALPLA recognises you and wants people who are motivated. If you do this, you will have a great future at ALPLA. Be open-minded, get out of your comfort zone sometimes, and you are set for success. My family and I are very grateful to ALPLA – we always got the support we needed. 

And what three words describe ALPLA for you?
 

Dynamic, flexible and fair.

Thanks Sandro for your time and your insights. 

About:

Name, Age: Sandro Manfio, 48

Corporate Maintenance Manager EBM

Family status: Married, two children

Hobbies: Cooking, spending time with family