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J. Kim

Quality Technologist
Cheonan-si, Republic of Korea
Rechargeable Battery Materials
Working for Umicore since 2019
"Learning every day, that is what I am enjoying the most! "

Can you describe your role/position at Umicore?

I started my job at Umicore at the quality management department in February 2019. As a Quality Technologist I monitor and manage the quality of battery materials. Together with other involved departments we work on improving the quality on a daily basis.

What do you like about your job?

Learning every day, that’s what I am enjoying the most! To really know our products’ quality I need to focus on many aspects, such as the quality management methods, the quality system and product and facility information. 

What do you like about working at Umicore?

When it comes to safety, Umicore does not make any compromise. Together, we seek to create an accident-free working environment for everybody. We identify potential risks on the workplace and have processes and preventive measures in place. We also take care of each other. As an example, when someone forgets to put on a safety vest, I will remind that person to do so. I do care a lot about safety, not only for myself but also for my colleagues. 

Why did you want to work at Umicore?

Umicore’s sustainability aspirations are very much aligned with my personal ambitions. I want to take part in the process of making the world a more sustainable and better place. It doesn’t stop with the battery materials production but it continues with a responsible design and usage of the batteries, and finally closing the loop through recycling of the batteries at the end of their life. 

What do you look forward to when you set off to work in the morning?

I always look forward to a day without quality process issues of course! But when they do occur, I like the feeling of having solved them well.

What has been the highlight of your time at Umicore so far?

When Covid-19 hit, we had to work from home and use Microsoft Teams for calls and collaboration. In my role of ‘digital hero’, I could help colleagues who were struggling with the application. This was very rewarding to me.

Any advice for newcomers?

Umicore offers great opportunities to learn a lot from good people and professionals, so don’t be afraid of failure and feel free to express your opinion.