Professional development opportunities at DPD - Interview with Alessandro

DPD is a company where growth and evolution are truly encouraged. This approach fosters an environment where employees can explore their potential, seize opportunities, and grow within a supportive structure. Let’s dive into a conversation that reflects this spirit.

DPD : "What was your career path at DPD before becoming Key Account Manager? And why did you decide to move ?"

Alessandro : "My career at DPD began in customer service, then I worked in the Pickup back office. After that, I split my role between the back office and as a field animator for Pickup, where I supported and visited partners. I then took on the role of full-time field animator, which enabled me to really understand the challenges in the field. Finally, I became Key Account Manager at the beginning of 2024, a position that requires solid field experience.

When I was in customer service, I already felt the need to change, to see other things. The opportunity to work in an other department like Pickup presented itself, and I jumped at the chance. After several years of good experiences and an excellent relationship with my colleagues, I wanted to evolve within the company. At the beginning of 2024, after six years in the Pickup business, I was keen to take on a new challenge. Sükran, in charge of key account management, offered me the chance to join her team, an opportunity I obviously seized."

DPD : "What specific skills did you develop in your Customer Service role that helped you in your new position?"

Alessandro : "In customer service, I really learned how to communicate with customers, something I've always enjoyed doing. DPD gave me the freedom to manage these exchanges, which enabled me to really understand their needs. I also realized how important feedback is for improvement, and that now helps me in my role as Key Account Manager."

DPD : "How does DPD support employee development (training, mentoring, etc.)?"

Alessandro : "At DPD, the good thing is that employee development is mainly achieved through internal mobility. Before looking to recruit from outside, the company favors people who are already in post, which gives us the chance to evolve and seize new opportunities. Then, if you have an idea for training, you can always ask for it.

What's also important tis that we're always supported, even when we have doubts. They let us work in our own way, but if we need help, DPD is there to support us. And even when we make mistakes, it's no thanks, that's how we learn, and my managers have always let me do it so that I can learn from my own actions."

DPD : "What challenges have you encountered in changing roles, and how have you overcome them?"

Alessandro : "I think the biggest challenge has been to get out of my comfort zone and not be afraid of the unknown. At DPD, we're given the freedom to choose our path, while at the same time being given opportunities to move forward. In fact, I've always asked my superiors: “If I'm doing something wrong, tell me straight away” to improve. Another challenge has been patience, which has never been easy for me. In Pickup, for example, the process only took 2-3 weeks from first contact to signature. But with major accounts, it takes much longer. You really have to keep in touch, even if sometimes the wait can last for years, which makes management more complex."

DPD : "Were there times when you felt lost or uncertain about your decision to change roles?"

Alessandro : "Honestly, yes, there were several moments when I felt a bit lost or unsure about my decision to change roles. Each time, I went to my manager to discuss and get advice. For example, when I started the Field Animator role, I wasn't sure how to handle certain situations, like when Pickup Parcel Shops stopped their contract with DPD, and how to react to that, especially with the Pickup. What always helped me was to have a relationship based on trust and honesty with my managers, which enabled me to overcome these moments of uncertainty and above all to learn more about my job."

DPD : "What do you think of the company's long-term career prospects?"

Alessandro : "Yes, absolutely, I really believe in the long-term career prospects at DPD. I really enjoy my job and there are still things I haven't done that I'd like to achieve, like acquiring a customer on my own. It's a challenge, especially with the big customers, as the decision-making process takes longer, but it's a goal I really want to achieve."

DPD : "What motivates you to continue developing within DPD? What are your long-term career goals?"

Alessandro : "What motivates me to continue developing at DPD is the opportunity to discover new brands and companies. Currently, as Key Account Manager, I love my role, as it combines acquiring new customers with managing existing ones. I really enjoy this balance. As for my long-term goals, I don't have any specific plans at the moment. I'm still learning every day in my current position, and there's so much to discover and do that I prefer to focus on my continued progress."

DPD : "What message would you like to pass on to those aspiring to a career with DPD?"

Alessandro : "I guess my message would be: be open to new opportunities and ready to learn constantly. Always do your best in your work, because there's always something to develop and improve. If you have the motivation to progress, communicate it and show it to your colleagues and managers. It's this attitude that will enable you to evolve and grow within the company."