Interview

Arkema Inc. is "an innovative global chemical company...focused on safety, its employees, and its community"

 Geri Dal Balcon
Supply Chain Manager, Fluorochemicals - King of Prussia, PA - B.S. Chemical Engineering - University of Delaware


What is your job at Arkema Inc?
Supply Chain Manager for Fluorochemicals

What are your day-to-day responsibilities?
I am responsible for the developing the 18-month supply and operating plan for the Calvert City plant, this involves identifying potential problem areas and working with the DFL Team to resolve them.  I am responsible for managing and executing transactions for all bulk product purchases, terminal, and tolling operations. I also manage the DFL equipment fleet.

What did you do before joining Arkema Inc?
Student at the University of Delaware

Why did you apply for a job at Arkema Inc?
I was interested in a global chemical company with a presence in the Philadelphia area.

How do you see your future at Arkema Inc?
I look forward to my future with Arkema.  I am excited to watch the company grow and become more profitable. I continue to see opportunities to learn and expand the breadth of knowledge it takes to stay globally competitive.  I hope that there is a position for me within Arkema for many more years.

In your opinion, what are the main qualities that you need to grow your career at Arkema Inc?  I need to be flexible, open to new opportunities, and possess a desire to continue learning and challenging myself.  This includes a willingness to take on new challenges and the risks that these entail.  I must continue to refine my communication skills including the ability to facilitate and work toward consensus.  I must continue to take advantage of each new experience and take these opportunities and apply the lessons learned toward the development of meaningful leadership abilities.

What advice would you give to anyone who wanted to work for Arkema Inc?
I have enjoyed working for Arkema in a variety of challenging assignments.  Arkema’s focus on training and development of its employees has increased since I started with the company 8 yrs ago.  Arkema continues to look for ways to grow the company and expand its presence in the global market.

What are some of the highlights of working at Arkema Inc?
One of my most fortunate opportunities was being able to help with a new plant start-up in Beaumont, Texas.  As a young engineer, it was an amazing hands-on experience to see each piece of equipment from the inside and to help troubleshoot during the start-up.  Living in Texas was also a great experience of a different culture.

How would you describe Arkema Inc. in one sentence?
Arkema is an innovative global chemical company, which develops many product offerings in numerous markets, while remaining focused on safety, its employees, and its community.