5 Questions for Nicole Schmutz, HR Manager at CTC Analytics

In today's competitive workplace, skilled professionals are more in demand than ever. Companies are looking for employees who not only have technical expertise, but also the confidence to realize their full potential and drive their professional development. But often we get in our own way, doubting our abilities and not daring to take the next steps. Does this sound familiar? Our interview partner of the month is a dynamic and self-confident woman. Her enthusiastic demeanor does not suggest that she, too, might know this feeling. But Nicole Schmutz also knows doubts and challenging decisions, albeit from her youth.

Growing up in Laufental, Nicole Schmutz was fascinated by two things: Architecture and sports. She spent hours on the volleyball court. But when the time came to choose a career, doubts prevailed. Instead of following her passions, she opted for a supposedly safe path. She began by studying law part-time and completed her training as a technical customs specialist. While working at the Directorate General of Customs in Bern, she came into contact with human resources for the first time and immediately found this area exciting. Not surprisingly, as a technical customs officer, she had a healthy basic curiosity and always wanted to get to the bottom of things. In order to have a solid basis, she completed the Federal Personnel Certificate while working and thus began her career in HR. Today, she works as HR manager at the family-run laboratory automation company, CTC Analytics in Zwingen. She draws daily on her knowledge, skills and experience from her previous positions, not least the contractual and labor law aspects of her current profession.

Long-term, satisfied employees are a company's greatest asset. As Head of HR and member of the Executive Board, Nicole Schmutz plays a crucial role in creating a positive working environment in which employees are satisfied and want to stay with the company for the long term - and sets a good example herself. For over 12 years she has now been with CTC Analyticswhich is a leader in the field of sample automation for gas and liquid chromatography. For almost 40 years, the company has been developing and producing high-performance laboratory robots for handling samples for applications in life science, food, environmental analysis, plastics or petrochemistry with around 100 employees. The technologically demanding research and development projects attract qualified software developers, design engineers, mechanical engineers and other specialists at the interface of chemistry, biology and physics, as does the family-like corporate culture. At CTC Analytics there is not only a flat hierarchy and a "Duz" culture, but also family values such as support, consideration and a sense of togetherness. As head of HR, Nicole Schmutz ensures the necessary framework conditions through regular events or sports activities that enrich her job. These measures not only promote the well-being and motivation of employees, but also lead to a positive corporate culture and strengthened team cohesion. "From very administrative to very strategic tasks, my range of activities is broad," says Nicole Schmutz.

Today, she knows that the key to realizing our full potential lies in daring to do more - both professionally and personally. So she encourages not only employees but also her two teenage sons to go beyond their self-imposed limits and open themselves up to new possibilities. Although Nicole Schmutz did not take the classic career path in architecture or sports, she has managed to integrate her passions into her everyday life: She uses her enthusiasm for architecture to design innovative and inspiring workplaces, as is currently the case with the site expansion at CTC Analytics. In sports she finds her balance to her professional life and is active in a support association for youth sports.

As HR Director, Nicole Schmutz is convinced that outstanding performance and long-term commitment can only come about when people do what they love. Take time over the summer break to reflect on your own values, interests and goals, or to learn about your career options or seek advice from others. Doubt is a natural part of the decision-making process. However, it is important not to get stuck in them, but to take active steps to overcome your doubts. We hope this interview inspires you to think about the importance of passion, confidence and courage in your own life.

Ms. Schmutz, if you had taken a different path when you were younger, what would you have become?

"I would have loved to study either architecture or sports. But at the time I didn't think I could do either, from today's perspective because of trivialities, but at the time I considered these too big challenges. Both sports and architecture still accompany me in some way, even in my current profession. Moreover, this experience is a learning that I pass on to my two sons: Believe in yourselves and your abilities and try to pursue and live your dreams, your goals."

What is your favorite way to start your day?
"Preferably in the first few minutes alone with a first espresso. And then very much with the family at a joint and extensive breakfast."

What does success mean to you personally?
"When I commit myself to something, with heart and soul and passion, and then I can be happy about the hopefully good result and this result is also appreciated by others. Today, I don't define success in terms of big milestones, but rather look for "success in small things" and acknowledge the small, everyday successes and progress in life. I also experience this feeling of fulfillment and success when I am able to help, support or assist someone in a difficult time without expecting anything in return."

What would you work for free for a week?
"I bim on the board of the Mattenheim'san association for the care and support of mentally handicapped adults. In addition, I am involved in a support association for youth sports and support children and young people with job application training. I would devote more time to these volunteer activities." 

What was the best professional advice you ever received?
"Every evening before you go home, ask yourself what your personal highlight was today. That's how even challenging days end on a positive note. Because most of the time, even a difficult day at work included a positive experience."

We would like to thank Ms. Schmutz for her contribution to this article.
This interview was conducted by telephone.