|
|
|
|
Working for COWI: Benjamin Challier
|
 |
|
Benjamin Challier comes from Briançon in the French Alps, and is a project manager in COWI, working on container terminals for the transportation industry. He studied for his BSc in Civil Engineering in Wales, and lived in the UK for ten years before coming to Denmark when his wife's job meant relocating.
|
|
|
COWI: How did you hear about your job with COWI?
Benjamin: When my wife was relocated to Denmark, I started looking online for potential employers. It is fantastic that COWI include all the contact details of key people on their website. I sent a speculative CV to the right person and got a job.
How is Denmark different from France?
It's better if I compare it to the UK, where I lived for ten years. Denmark has a much better work/life balance. You work 37 hours a week and are not expected to do overtime. In the UK, career progression can be seen in terms of arriving before the boss and leaving after he leaves. That's not the way it works here.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
What have you learned by working in Denmark?
Danish people argue and debate issues forever! But, of course, this is also a strength since no stone is left unturned.
Where else would you like to work?
Asia, China specifically. My wife's parents are from Hong Kong and I'd like to live in China to really understand the culture and the life. A holiday there is not enough.
What has surprised you about working in Denmark?
Morgenbrød. [See Five things you should know about COWI in Denmark] That's very nice every Friday morning. But I am also surprised that COWI does not do more to welcome foreigners. I think a minimum they should provide Danish lessons and help to settle within the slightly complicated Danish administrative system. I have been in meetings that are not held in English, and that's a problem. I think COWI has some way to go to become a truly international company.
What do you think of the food in Denmark?
Much better than England! And you get more choice and variety than in England. It's good quality too.
What do you miss most about your home country?
England - Cornwall, good beer and pubs. France - food, family, and the weather.
Describe your day in two sentences.
I get up and go to work. I come home early and have a life after work.
What would make your day easier?
Nothing at the moment. I can work from home when I have to. In my office, I have a great desk that goes up and down!
What advice would you give to someone who's been offered a job in another country?
It's a great idea, go for it. Don't be disheartened if it is hard for the first six months. You have to re-establish yourself and your networks. Get involved with sports or social activities as quick as you can.
Do you prefer cheese or chocolate?
Cheese, of course, because I am French.
By Martyn Glanville
Published: 14.03.2008
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Printed from www.cowi.com
on 06.07.08© COWI A/S
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|