What is the current recruitment situation at Grupa Azoty Kędzierzyn?

I won't hide the fact that this is a challenging time for us. As a company operating in the chemical industry, we are feeling the effects of both global economic instability and changes in the labor market. On the one hand, we are struggling with a difficult financial situation, and on the other, we are having increasing problems finding suitably qualified employees. Our company, like many others in the sector, has had to adapt to the new reality – we are looking for savings, but at the same time we are trying not to lose what is most valuable: our people and the knowledge we have built up over the years.

Have you noticed a decline in interest in job offers?

The number of applications has fallen in recent months. Candidates are more cautious, analyzing the stability of the companies they apply to. Our financial situation, even though we are working to stabilize it, is no secret – this also affects how we are perceived as an employer. Candidates will think twice before changing a stable job. On the other hand, people with experience in chemical production know that this is an industry with solid foundations and great potential in the long term. Our job as recruiters is to show that even in difficult times, we can offer growth and security.

Which positions are currently the most difficult to fill?

First and foremost, these are production and technical positions – process line operators, laboratory technicians, chemical engineers, and maintenance mechanics. They require specific knowledge and experience, and there is simply a shortage of such candidates on the market. In addition, we compete for the same specialists with other companies, which can often offer better financial conditions.

What skills are currently most sought after in our company?

As I mentioned, we focus on technical specialists – chemical plant operators, technologists, maintenance engineers. But we are also placing increasing emphasis on so-called soft skills: the ability to work in a team, resistance to stress, and openness to change. In a situation where a lot is happening and things do not always go according to plan, flexibility becomes crucial.

How do you maintain team commitment and attract new employees in such circumstances?

Through honesty and communication. We don't hide the difficulties, but we also show that the company is operating, developing, and has a plan for the future. We focus on talking to our employees, explaining decisions, and involving them in the change process. We also offer our employees: private medical care, an employee pension plan, MultiSport sports cards, and the Azoty Care program, which provides Azoty Group employees with discounts on purchases in online stores, extracurricular activities for children and young people, admission to amusement parks, and cultural events.  Contrary to appearances, it is possible to build a very loyal and harmonious team during a crisis – as long as people see the meaning in what they do.

What are the forecasts for the future – both for the industry and for recruitment?

I am cautiously optimistic. The chemical industry is of great importance to agriculture and the economy. I think that in the coming years, it will be crucial to invest in environmentally friendly technologies and process automation. This, in turn, will create new jobs – perhaps with a slightly different profile than before. For recruiters, this is a signal that we need to be flexible, keep up with changes, and be able to translate the language of technology into the language of people.

Finally, what message would you have for candidates who are hesitant to apply to our company?

Don't be afraid of chemistry! It's not just a maze of pipes with various media, laboratories, and test tubes, but above all, a stable, interesting, and modern industry and people who are really creating something necessary. If you like challenges, value development, and are curious about the world, this is where you can really spread your wings. We encourage all those who want to become part of our company and work for the largest fertilizer and chemical group in Poland to visit our website frequently and keep track of the job offers at Grupa Azoty Kędzierzyn.