Welcome to the latest edition of our interview series "Behind AVALES," where we take a closer look at the members of our team. Today, we have the pleasure of featuring Anita Barberio, our assistant in various service areas, in the spotlight. With a wealth of experience and an impressive professional background, Anita has a multifaceted career that spans from national and international companies to educational administration. After successfully navigating the family phase, she brought her diverse skills and passion for organizational and administrative tasks to the team at AVALES Wilhelm AG.
What motivated you to apply to AVALES Wilhelm AG?
The decision to apply at AVALES Wilhelm AG was sparked by an interesting incident. A good friend, Sandra Vagenknecht, who was already working at Wilhelm AG at the time, asked me if I would be interested in applying for the then-vacant assistant position. At that time, I was working in school administration and had already been contemplating a change in my work environment to further develop professionally. The prospect of working in a company where someone from my personal circle had a positive experience, coupled with the fact that it was in an industry that fascinated me during my business apprenticeship, piqued my interest. So, I decided to take a closer look at the position and determine if it aligned with my professional goals. Now, I am here and eagerly look forward to facing new challenges and contributing to AVALES Wilhelm AG.
What connects you with the HR consulting industry?
Honestly, I've had only a few opportunities to engage with the fascinating world of HR consulting. My first exciting experience was during my more generalized commercial apprenticeship when I briefly got a glimpse into the HR department at Contraves AG – a former Swiss defense company which belonged to the Orelikon-Bührle Group and is known today as Rheinmetall Air Defence AG. These insights opened a window to an exciting and dynamic work environment that was far from mundane, unlike traditional accounting. During that time, I saw HR as a vibrant stage where employee care took center stage – from close collaboration with internal staff to meticulous management of their information. This perspective provided me with a unique insight into the world of HR work, and I could already see the diversity and variety that this industry had to offer. However, despite the fascinating insight and positive experiences, I didn't have the opportunity to delve into the world of human resources after my later training as a secretary and the changes in my family situation. Nevertheless, it's amazing how life sometimes takes unexpected turns. When I applied for my current position, a surprising and exciting opportunity presented itself for me to dive into the world of HR consulting. I realized that fate may have led me in this direction, and I decided to seize this chance and fully embrace this new journey. Looking back on my career path, one could say that I stumbled into this field somewhat serendipitously. Yet, it's often these serendipities that open the most astonishing doors. Fundamentally, I'm someone who is open to new experiences and challenges. The world of HR consulting appears to me as a fascinating and multifaceted universe where I can bring my years of skills, broad range of experiences, and passion for collaborating with people. It's an industry that is constantly evolving and offers the opportunity for continuous development and growth – an opportunity I welcome with open arms.
How would you describe your key skills and experiences that you would like to bring to your new role?
In my role at AVALES Wilhelm AG, I particularly want to contribute my broad knowledge and comprehensive skills that I've acquired throughout my diverse professional journey in various locations and industries. I firmly believe that this diversity of experiences helps me develop a comprehensive perspective and find innovative solutions. The treasures of my extensive practical experience have also underscored how essential it is to work with care and precision to achieve optimal results. Furthermore, my adaptability and team spirit define me. I'm enthusiastically ready to take on new tasks and challenges while also finding joy in collaborating with other team members toward common goals. My willingness to adapt and my commitment to the team reflect my understanding of the importance of cooperation and collective effort for success. Last but not least, I have a deep enthusiasm for the interpersonal aspect. This interest in people and their well-being is the driving force behind my passion for this work. The opportunity to have a positive impact on the lives and careers of others is invaluable to me. As a result, I always strive to be empathetic and attentive to ensure that the needs of each individual are met in the best possible way. This aspect not only gives purpose to my work but also makes it a lasting source of joy and motivation for my daily challenges.
How would you characterize yourself?
If I had to describe myself, I would say that I am an uncomplicated, flexible, and sociable person. Working together and feeling comfortable in social situations are my strengths. Occasionally, I can be a bit impatient, especially when I'm motivated to make progress. However, overall, I'm usually in good spirits and strive to create a positive atmosphere, whether in the work environment or in my personal life. The joy I feel when interacting with others and achieving goals together is a constant source of energy and inspiration for me.
Where can you be found in your free time?
In my free time, I prefer to enjoy quiet moments at home, often with a captivating book in hand while sitting in my favorite spot. Other times, I enjoy meeting up with friends for a relaxed cup of coffee or tea and a cozy chat. Nature holds a special allure for me, and since I'm fortunate to live in a rural area, I spend many hours outdoors in the natural surroundings. The wind in the trees, the chirping of birds, and the expansive landscape are truly invigorating sources of inspiration for me. Another precious aspect of my life is my family. Spending time with my two now-adult children, their partners, and my husband is invaluable to me. We've made it a habit to share a variety of activities – whether it's going on nature excursions or engaging in everyday undertakings that often find their brilliance in the simplest things. It's wonderful to experience how these moments bring us together and enrich our lives with unforgettable memories. Whether it's a weekend getaway or a cozy movie night at home, these shared experiences strengthen our bond and lend an unparalleled value to my life.
