Lotta T.

Can you describe your role at Umicore?

I work as a Quality Management Engineer at our Battery Cathode Materials site in Kokkola, Finland. My job is to make sure that the products we produce meet the highest quality standards every single day, meaning that these products are clean, safe and exactly how they should be. We analyze daily samples to check for contamination and monitor our closed production processes extremely precisely so that no foreign materials can enter at any point. It’s all about protecting quality from start to finish. 

What do you enjoy about your job?

I really enjoy working with a strong, supportive team and contributing to a company that has a real environmental impact. Being part of a global innovator is something I feel genuinely proud of. 

What do you enjoy about working for Umicore?

I’ve always been passionate about the environment, so working on materials that ultimately end up in electric vehicles feels meaningful. At Umicore, I get to combine that personal interest with a job that drives positive change.  

What do you look forward to when you leave for work in the morning?

When I head to work, I genuinely look forward to the familiar faces and the small but meaningful moments that start the day—like sharing a quick conversation over coffee. I enjoy the little wins that come with problem‑solving, closing tasks, and supporting my colleagues. Every day brings something new to learn, and I’m motivated by the knowledge that the challenges I tackle help improve our processes and overall product quality. 

What has been your highlight so far in your role at Umicore?

One of my biggest highlights has been improving contamination management at the Kokkola site. In simple terms, it means keeping any unwanted particles out of our products—like making sure no crumbs get into a clean kitchen. Strengthening these processes and seeing the direct impact on our daily work has been especially rewarding. 

Advice for new joiners?

Stay curious and don’t be afraid to ask questions. If something doesn’t seem right, speak up. I’ve learned that fresh eyes often notice things the rest of us no longer see, and that perspective is such a gift.