Interview

"Arkema has been open to growth and helping employees get to where they want to be"

Connie Lo
Commercial Development Manager for Sustainability Additives - Packaging and Healthcare - King of Prussia, PA

What is your job at Arkema Inc?
Commercial Development Manager for Sustainability Additives – Packaging and Healthcare.

What are your day-to-day responsibilities?
I am responsible in developing our biopolymers and engineering resins additives brand in the packaging market.  This involves working closely with R&D and our customers to make sure our products satisfy their needs.

I also perform audits for our container glass customers, to whom we sell our patented coating technology and coating chemistry.  This involves going into the customer plants, observing operations, and reviewing findings.

A perfect balance of business and technical.

What did you do before joining Arkema Inc?
I worked in a research lab formulating drugs.

Why did you apply for a job at Arkema Inc?
I thought it would be a great opportunity for exposure into the corporate world.

How do you see your future at Arkema Inc?
Arkema has given me the opportunity to expand in different fields that have been both challenging and rewarding.  I see the future as bright and look forward to what Arkema will bring.

In your opinion, what are the main qualities that you need to grow your career at Arkema Inc?
Don’t be afraid to ask.  There are many synergies between our business groups, departments, project, etc. that if there is something of interest, ask to be involved.  Arkema has been open to growth and helping employees get to where they want to be. 

What advice would you give to anyone who wanted to work for Arkema Inc?
Follow your dreams and work towards something you really enjoy.  Arkema is very passionate about its goals, and wants their employees to feel the same.

What are some of the highlights of working at Arkema Inc?
People.  The people make coming into work fun everyday.  We are not only coworkers, but friends.
 
Opportunities.  I was expatriated to China in 2008 for the growth of our Online CVD Systems in China.  This included the start up several projects in China, continued customer support, and development of potential customers.  The amount of knowledge and experiences I obtain during my time there is invaluable.

Travel.  Travel has always been a passion of mine.  Arkema has brought me to places all around the world. 

How would you describe Arkema Inc. in one sentence?
Arkema Inc. is a place that inspires you towards a challenging, yet rewarding world of opportunities.