Meet Julia Davidovich, Purchasing Project Manager at Volvo 3P, Mack Engineering Development & Test Center, Allentown, USA.
How did you come to join Volvo 3P?
“I joined Volvo 3P in October of 2007 as a Purchasing Project Manager. I came to Volvo 3P from Mack Truck’s Customer Order Fulfilment (COF) Department. COF was great experience because it afforded me the opportunity to work directly with the dealer network.”
“Knowing there are hardworking salesmen waiting for their trucks at the end of our development process is always in the back of my mind.”
Tell us about your current role and its main responsibilities.
“My current assignment is to manage the Purchasing activities associated with the EPA 2010 Project, specifically the Mack Cab-Over-Engine models.”
“It all starts here in Volvo 3P: the concepts, the designs, the testing and ultimately the parts that we supply to the assembly plant.”
“I enjoy the daily diversity of tasks but most of all; I like the people I work with.”
“My job requires strong cross functional coordination between Purchasing, Product Development, Product Range Management, Economic Support, and Global Manufacturing.”
How would you describe the culture at Volvo 3P?
“The team approach is evident in Volvo 3P. I can honestly say I have never had a situation where I did not receive the utmost cooperation from my colleagues.”
“My own department, the Purchasing Projects Group operates the same way. All the Purchasing Project Managers help each other by freely sharing their experience, tools and techniques. We have a true “all-for-one” spirit.”
Why would you recommend someone to work at Volvo 3P?
“There are possibilities for professional growth at Volvo 3P. Recently, the management provided study materials to a group of project managers who were interested in pursuing the Project Management Professional (PMP) Certification. We started a lunchtime study group to help motivate each other. Preparing for the exam took nearly three months. In the end, a common project management language emerged and new friendships were formed. On May 6, 2009, I received my PMP certification. Soon afterward, another study group member passed his exam and at least five others are planning to take their exam this year.”