People at ALPLA - Interview with Valentin Trupiano

Thanks, Valentin, for taking the time for us. Your ALPLA story is quite amazing. Can you give us a little insight into this journey? 

Thanks for giving me the opportunity to share my ALPLA story. In May 2010, I was waiting for my exams and looking for a temporary job. I joined a temporary staffing agency and began working as a packer at the plant in Blois during the summer. I then took on the role of sales assistant intern before transitioning to the logistics department as a purchasing agent and power user. Just a few months later, the new Corp initiatives related to improvement program was launched in plant. They included 5S and the introduction of Controlling Tools for Operations (CTO). 

 My office was located directly opposite the Plant Manager’s office. I recall an instance when he opened the door and said, ‘Valentin, can you come to my office please? I have something new for you.’ It was my first time attending a meeting in the Plant Manager’s office, and that is how I got in charge of this newly started programme at our Blois plant. 

In 2015, I was asked to support the roll-out of CTO at other French plants. Over the years, this experience gave me extensive knowledge about the organisation and various topics and tools, which contributed to my professional and personal growth. Since then, I have held a national position closely connected to continuous improvement and 5S.

You are now working as an Operational Excellence Manager in France. How would you describe this job to a child? 

That’s a funny question. My son, who is three-and-a-half years old, thinks I’m helping friends make better plastic bottles. More seriously, continuous improvement and OPEX-related topics are not widely known, even among friends. I describe my job as striving for excellence in our work environment by improving HSE and industrial performance.

What has been your favourite project/task that you have worked on at ALPLA so far? 

I enjoy interdisciplinary improvement projects, such as Kaizen events, value stream mapping and problem-solving workshops. These activities benefit everyone involved: experts share their knowledge while newcomers learn about the shop floor activities, techniques and complexities.

What do you find most interesting about working at ALPLA? 

My position allows me to work with most departments in the company. Learning from each colleague is very informative. Additionally, ALPLA operates as a family company with a flat hierarchy, where trust is given, respect is practised, skills are developed and many of us focus on achieving results.

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

That’s a tough question. Since joining ALPLA, I’ve moved between departments without a set plan. I enjoy discovering new things, so perhaps working closely with finance colleagues would be interesting.

In our interviews, we also try to take a more personal look at our colleagues, so let me ask you some more private questions. Here’s an easy one to start: what is your favourite place on earth? 

All the countries I have had the chance to visit have been unique. From Italy to the USA, each country has a specific atmosphere and culture. We enjoy discovering local habits and trying local food. However, the best place for me is close to my family!

If Hollywood made a film about your life, who would you like to see cast as you? 

An international version could feature Andrew Garfield, while François Civil would be a good choice for a French version.

If you had one more hour each day, what would you use it for?

I would spend time at home with my son and girlfriend. For nearly nine years, I have been traveling to various French plants every week, often spending at least four days away from home. This extended travel can be particularly challenging, especially with a young child.

What is your favourite hobby? 

I have had an interest in sports from a young age, particularly table tennis. I continue to play it regularly, and it provides an opportunity to meet friends and compete with other players. Over the past two years, and especially during the summer leading up to the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, table tennis has increased its profile through the efforts of two young brothers from the south of France who are excelling in international competitions. They recently earned a silver medal.

Now back to ALPLA: what does a typical day at work look like for you? 

A typical day begins by driving to the next plant. Usually, daily business involves trainings, workshops or assessments. If I am not travelling, I have regular follow-up meetings with my counterparts to support them or ensure that progress is made on our topics.

I am in frequent contact with local OPEX colleagues. We consider ourselves a team. Each of us faces similar challenges, seeks advice on tools and asks questions to gain additional opinions or think creatively.

What advice would you give to new employees?

Take the time to be properly onboarded from day one before you dive into daily tasks. Our department relies on specific systems and tools, and a thorough understanding of them is essential. Reviewing the new Data Catalogue will help you become familiar with our terminology.

Describe ALPLA using your own three words/adjectives: 

ALPLA is an ambitious, motivating and dynamic family company.

Thanks for giving us your time!

About Valentin:

Valentin TRUPIANO, 36 years old
Country OPEX Manager for France