Connected to the chain #21 | Anne Friedrich

Anne Friedrich works as an operational buyer for the SuedOstLink project within Supply Chain Management Large Projects Direct Current department. She started her professional journey in September 2018, immediately after graduating from school, by enrolling in a commercial apprenticeship at TenneT. This apprenticeship gave her the valuable opportunity to explore different departments and experience different roles within the company, which ultimately helped her find the career path that suited her best. Following her apprenticeship, Anne seamlessly moved into operational purchasing in February 2021, a role she has successfully held for over three years.

Outside of work, Anne leads an active lifestyle with a strong interest in sport, participating in swimming, hiking and regular workouts at the gym. She also likes to explore her creative side by stitching, which gives her a calm balance to her dynamic working life and allows her to relax and recharge.

What difficulties did you have to overcome in the beginning?

After completing my apprenticeship at TenneT, I went straight into the role of operational buyer at SuedOstLink. Although I had gained practical experience in purchasing and a general understanding of TenneT's operations during my training, adapting to the specific demands of the project and asserting my role, especially while working from home immediately after training, was a major challenge. However, it soon became clear that I was part of a supportive team involved in an exciting project. I was given responsibility from the start, which helped me to settle into my role quickly. The team was always on hand to answer any questions I had, which enabled me to integrate quickly and contribute effectively to the project from the outset.

How do you work with your internal clients?

I prioritise maintaining close contact with internal clients and colleagues, as this is essential for effective collaboration. This is particularly important during tendering processes, where our joint efforts are aimed at achieving the best affordability and reliability for TenneT. In addition, close cooperation helps us to monitor ongoing requirements and needs and to respond in a timely and sustainable manner. This proactive and networked approach is fundamental to managing our internal dynamics and ensuring successful outcomes.

What makes Supply Chain Management a unique place to work?

I think what makes Supply Chain Management (SCM) a unique place to work is the exciting daily tasks and challenges. Ongoing interaction with various suppliers, collaborative task completion within the team, and interesting topics from both project and special initiatives within the SCM department all contribute to a diverse and stimulating work environment.

What gets you going in the morning?

A strong cup of coffee and, depending on the season, the first rays of sunshine give me fresh energy. In addition, each day brings exciting new issues to tackle. The variety of tasks and interactions with many colleagues and suppliers ensure that every day is unique. I have a general idea of what to expect, but it's the unexpected challenges that really get me going each morning.

How do you maintain a good work-life balance?

It's important for me to maintain a balance after work, whether it's through sport or spending time with family and friends. In addition, having a variety of tasks at work also plays an important role in maintaining a good work-life balance.

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