Meet Sophia Crespi

A Tale of Passion and Growth in Procurement  

When Sophia joined Fedrigoni she was drawn by the company’s ambitious projects and vision. Today, she feels deeply intertwined with our strategic goals. “Every morning, I wake up with the feeling of being in the right place at the right time” 

Sophia sees procurement as a crucial strategic function that fosters strong collaborations and synergies, both within the company and with external partners. Unlike the typical perception of procurement as an operational role, at Fedrigoni, it’s a dynamic and value-creating function. Her journey in procurement is more than just acquiring goods and services; it’s about shaping the company’s strategy and driving innovation. 

In procurement, working in cross-functional teams is essential for sharing all ongoing projects. This collaboration with marketing, supply chain, and R&D departments brings in client-driven ideas, ensures seamless operations, and introduces supplier projects to the quality department, a key partner providing valuable insights. Overall, their teamwork with all functions helps break down silos and fosters cohesion within the teams. 

A Journey of Leadership and Collaboration 

Sophia truly appreciates and values an open and collaborative environment. She flourishes in settings where talented individuals come together to engage in meaningful conversations, active participation and the sparking of innovative ideas and solutions. This inclusive and collaborative atmosphere is what has kept her motivated and committed to growing within the company. 

Throughout her journey, Sophia has been inspired by a dynamic and diverse leadership model. She has encountered a variety of leadership styles, each leaving its unique mark and promoting a culture of open collaboration and transparency where every voice is heard and valued. “The best ideas come from different perspectives,” she says, reflecting the shared belief among the leaders. 

Reflecting on her five-year tenure with the company, Sophia fondly remembers her most challenging and proudest project. She spent two transformative months in Brazil, assisting the South American procurement team. Her role was to help them adopt the processes used at headquarters and explain the reasoning behind various activities.  This experience was both professionally and personally enriching for her. She gained a deep appreciation for the challenges faced by colleagues far from the main office and was moved by their gratitude.  This newfound understanding fostered trust not only in Sophia but also in the company. 

Sophia’s Guide to a Vibrant Workplace: Embracing Learning in a dynamic environment 

Sophia believes in the power of experiential learning, often saying, “I learn by observing and doing”. She integrates the best practices and unique approaches she observes into her own work. In our fast-paced environment, this hands-on learning approach is essential, as each day brings new challenges and opportunities. 

She often reminds her team that since we spend a significant portion of our lives at work, it’s essential to make it enjoyable and fun to maintain a healthy and dynamic environment. To achieve this, Sophia fosters an environment where questions and feedback are always welcome. She assures her team that she’s open to their thoughts and concerns, and if they ever feel uncomfortable approaching her, she encourages them to seek out someone else who can provide a fresh perspective. Her approach not only promotes a positive workplace culture but also ensures that everyone feels heard and supported.