In today's fast-paced world of work, characterized by change and innovation, it is often the unconventional career paths and the people who deliberately go against the grain that can teach us the most valuable lessons about success and leadership. Ralph Zillig, born in Basel and living in Oberwil, is one such inspiring personality who shows us that the path to leadership does not always have to be planned in detail. "The path is life," as he tells us in the interview. This saying reminds us that life is not just about goals and results, but above all about the experiences, challenges and learning processes we go through along the way.
Ralph Zillig began his professional journey with an apprenticeship as a machine mechanic. What initially started as a career with modest ambitions developed into a very satisfying and successful career based on values such as diligence and openness to new things and a strong belief in the power of change and innovation. Since the late 1980s, he has left his mark on the packaging industry and has now been with the company for two decades. Stebler Packaging AG a renowned manufacturer of tinplate packaging for leading companies in the chemical-technical industry. He has been managing the company as site manager for five years. Stebler Blech AG's more than 100 years of know-how will be put to good use at the Stebler Packaging AG continued as the result of a joint venture between Stebler Blech AG and the Massilly Group, which operates internationally in the metal packaging industry.
Ralph Zillig has not only turned against the 'we've always done it this way' mentality, he has actually challenged it. A staunch advocate of automation, he has shown that innovation and change are the keys to success, and that those brave enough to break new ground are the ones who shape the future. His vision as a leader is that every person in an organization is equally valuable. He has left behind the idea of a rigid hierarchy and instead created a corporate culture in which the ideas and contributions of the 22 or so employees are heard and valued.
Gain insights into his professional and private habits and views on decisions, goals and satisfaction in this interview with Ralph Zillig.
Mr. Zillig, if you had taken a different path when you were younger, what would you have become?
"As a child, I knew I wanted to work with my hands. I like wood, but I didn't want to be a carpenter. Forester would have been exciting, but I wanted to work indoors. That's how I got into machines, and I've never regretted my choice of an apprenticeship as a machine mechanic. I knew early on that it was the profession with the most opportunities for later."
What is your favorite way to start your day?
"I haven't needed an alarm clock for years. I usually wake up between 3-5 a.m., have a cup of coffee, and work on initial emails from home. This way I can still participate in family life in the morning before heading to the store after rush hour."
What does success mean to you personally?
"In a word, contentment. I never aspired to ranks and titles, never wanted to get as far as possible. For me, success means coming home in the evening and being able to say: Today was great. I've done this, I've done that, I'm one step closer to a goal I've set myself. My grandparents and parents already taught me the importance of inner satisfaction."
What would you work for free for a week?
"I did that regularly for 15 years: My wife used to run a daycare center. Every year I took a week's vacation and accompanied her and the children to the camp in Ticino and helped with childcare, among other things. This commitment broadened my horizons - after all, there is something else besides industry. The social aspect was very enriching."
What was the best professional advice you ever received?
"You spend so much time at work that it's important to be satisfied with your job. I get this feeling when I achieve a set goal. These have to be achievable, no matter how big or challenging they are. One of my teachers gave me this advice, which I still take to heart today: 'The biggest job becomes small if you break it down into steps'. Another piece of advice that I think has proven itself in both business and private life is this: 'Spend less than you earn and you'll always have enough'."
We would like to thank Mr. Zillig for his contribution to this article.
This interview was conducted orally.
Batterman Consulting Basel AG
Executive Search,
Byfangweg 1a, CH-4051 Basel
T +41 58 680 55 55
basel@batterman.ch
