How do you manage projects with structure without losing agility? And how do you build a new team while keeping an eye on international markets?
In our latest employee interview, Jürgen Hoffmann provides insights into his role as team leader at our Vienna location. He talks about his approach to project management, the expansion of our EPCMV services in the pharmaceutical and life sciences sector – and why clarity, a hands-on mentality, and knowledge transfer are more than just buzzwords to him.
An authentic conversation about responsibility, team culture, and the right amount of personal motivation.
How long have you been with SpiraTec and what is your current role?
I joined SpiraTec at the end of 2024, and I now lead a dedicated team at the Vienna branch. Our team focuses on project management services, as well as compliance and qualification in regulated environments. I am also driving the expansion of our integrated project management (EPCMV) services in pharmaceutical and life sciences plant engineering.
What exactly do you do here, and what does a “typical” workday look like for you?
My responsibilities include managing interdisciplinary projects and providing support for ongoing projects, especially when challenges arise. I refine project scopes, manage risks, clarify interfaces, and control deadlines and costs.
I am also interested in sharing knowledge through a practical, strategic training program that appeals to young talent and experienced colleagues alike.
Although there is rarely a “typical” day in project management, every day begins with a structured review of priorities, an overview of upcoming meetings, and a brief team alignment.
What three things are almost always on your desk?
- My notebook with the risk register and decision log
- A current to-do list
- A homemade cell phone holder from my daughter – my personal highlight!
What are you currently working on, and what are your biggest challenges?
I am currently working on the targeted expansion of our Vienna team in the Industrial Engineering and Design division and providing operational support for ongoing projects within SpiraTec, including contract and interface issues. I also analyze market developments in further countries, particularly with regard to EPCMV projects.
The biggest challenge right now is the market situation. Many customers are hesitant to make investment decisions, so flexible and forward-looking project planning is necessary.
What do you like most about your role or team?
I appreciate the high impact of my role in an interdisciplinary environment. Working with the SpiraTec teams, who impress me with their strong hands-on mentality, is particularly motivating. Having the freedom to structure complex issues – from technology to compliance – in a clear, solution-oriented manner makes all the difference to me. We don’t sugarcoat problems; we solve them.
If you weren’t at SpiraTec, what would you be doing today?
I could see myself running a small “critical chain café” with a focused atmosphere, excellent espresso, and a visible planning board for managing orders and projects. It would be a place that makes a feel-good structure tangible.
