Customer proximity and trust as key factors
Arek Dyrdol heads HOERBIGER Corporation of America since December 2020 and is responsible for the North America region at HOERBIGER. On the occasion of HCA's 60th anniversary, we spoke with him about the recipes for long-term success and the company's plans for the future.
HCA celebrates its 60th anniversary this year. How has the company developed over the decades and what key moments have contributed to its longstanding success?
Arek Dyrdol — HCA, marking its 60th anniversary, has showcased remarkable evolution and growth since its inception. Over the decades, the company has strategically adapted to changing markets and technological advancements, expanding its reach and diversifying its portfolio. Key milestones include the development of groundbreaking technologies together with our R&D department in Vienna, strategic partnerships that enhance innovation, mergers and acquisitions that expand our product offerings and market presence, and a strong commitment to quality and customer satisfaction. These elements, combined with a talented and dedicated workforce, have been pivotal in establishing HCA as an enduring industry leader, ensuring its sustained success over the years.
How has HCA responded to changing market conditions and technological developments to remain competitive?
Arek Dyrdol — As a part of HOERBIGER Group, HCA has adeptly responded to evolving market conditions and technological advancements to sustain its competitiveness. The company has consistently invested in research and development to stay at the forefront of technological innovations, particularly in the realm of compression technologies. Embracing market shifts, HCA has diversified its product and service offerings to cater to emerging customers’ needs, ensuring a versatile market presence. Moreover, strategic alliances and collaborations with key industry players have enhanced HCA’s reach and knowledge base, enabling the company to swiftly adapt to changing dynamics and remain a competitive force in the market.
What role does innovation play in the corporate strategy and how does the company promote new ideas and technologies?
Arek Dyrdol — Innovation is a cornerstone of both HCA’s, and HOERBIGER’s corporate strategy, playing a pivotal role in the company's growth and competitiveness. HCA places a strong emphasis on fostering a culture of creativity and a forward-thinking mindset, encouraging its employees to generate new ideas and propose innovative solutions. The company invests substantially in research and development to drive advancements in technologies related to product development, process automation, and other relevant fields. Cross-functional collaboration and knowledge-sharing are actively promoted within the organization to leverage diverse perspectives and expertise, ultimately fueling innovative endeavors.
Additionally, HCA engages in strategic partnerships and participation in industry events to stay informed about the latest trends and breakthroughs, ensuring a continuous flow of fresh concepts and technologies into its operations. Through these initiatives, HCA actively cultivates an environment conducive to innovation, enabling the company to stay ahead of the curve and deliver cutting-edge solutions to its customers.
Darüber hinaus engagiert sich die HCA in strategischen Partnerschaften und nimmt an Branchenveranstaltungen teil, um über die neuesten Trends und Durchbrüche informiert zu bleiben und so einen kontinuierlichen Fluss neuer Konzepte und Technologien im Betrieb zu gewährleisten. Durch diese Initiativen kultiviert die HCA aktiv ein innovationsförderndes Umfeld, das es dem Unternehmen ermöglicht, der Zeit immer einen Schritt voraus zu sein und seinen Kunden modernste Lösungen anzubieten.
„The relationship between HCA, its customers and business partners has evolved over time into a strong foundation of trust, collaboration, and mutual success.“
How has the relationship with customers and business partners developed over time and what measures are taken to build, maintain and strengthen long-term relationships?
Arek Dyrdol — The relationship between HCA, its customers and business partners has evolved over time into a strong foundation of trust, collaboration, and mutual success. Initially, the company focused on delivering high-quality compressor valves, establishing a reputation for reliability and excellence. As HCA expanded its presence, it recognized the importance of fostering lasting relationships. The company prioritizes open communication, actively seeking feedback from customers and partners to understand their needs and preferences.
To build and maintain these relationships, HCA employs several key measures. First and foremost, a customer-centric approach is embedded in its business ethos, ensuring that customer satisfaction remains a top priority. Regular engagement and addressing concerns promptly contribute to fostering trust and loyalty. Additionally, the company invests in ongoing support, providing training, technical assistance, and guidance to customers and partners.
In terms of partnerships, HCA focuses on creating mutually beneficial relationships. Collaborative product development, joint marketing efforts, and transparent communication are encouraged to align goals and drive shared success. Furthermore, HCA honors its commitments and upholds a high level of integrity in all interactions, enhancing its reputation as a trustworthy and dependable business partner. These measures collectively strengthen the relationships over time, leading to enduring partnerships and customer loyalty that have become a hallmark of HCA business operations.
What does the corporate culture look like and which values are particularly important to you?
Arek Dyrdol — HCA embodies a vibrant and inclusive corporate culture that is deeply rooted in a set of core values. Integrity and ethics are fundamental, forming the bedrock of every interaction, decision, and initiative within the company. The organization places a strong emphasis on innovation, encouraging creativity and a forward-thinking mindset among its employees. A commitment to excellence is pervasive, driving the continuous improvement of products, services, and processes.
Collaboration and teamwork are also highly valued, fostering an environment where diverse perspectives are embraced, and collective efforts lead to success. Empowerment and accountability are equally important, promoting individual responsibility and ownership. HCA also values adaptability and agility, recognizing the need to swiftly respond to market changes.
Moreover, a deep dedication to customer satisfaction underlines the corporate culture, emphasizing responsiveness, customer-centricity, and exceeding expectations in all interactions.
Overall, HCA's corporate culture reflects a dynamic blend of values that not only guide the company's actions but also define its identity as an organization committed to excellence, integrity, innovation, and positive societal impact.
You have buried a time capsule with today's items for the employees of the future. What are HCA's plans for the coming years, especially in terms of expansion, sustainability and social responsibility?
Arek Dyrdol — HCA’s future plans in large parts do encompass strategic initiatives in expansion, sustainability, and social responsibility.
In terms of expansion, the company is committed to further broadening its footprint in the Americas while continuing to diversify its portfolio of products and services. HCA aims to penetrate new markets, offering cutting-edge solutions in compression and related technologies.
Sustainability is a paramount focus for HCA, and the company is dedicated to reducing its environmental impact. It is actively implementing eco-friendly practices within its operations, such as energy-efficient manufacturing processes and sustainable supply chain management. HCA is also working towards reducing its carbon footprint and exploring other green technologies to align with its commitment to environmental responsibility.
In the realm of social responsibility, HCA is dedicated to contributing positively to the communities in which it operates. This involves supporting local initiatives, engaging in philanthropic endeavors, and encouraging employee volunteerism. The company recognizes the importance of being a responsible corporate citizen, actively participating in community development projects and collaborating with nonprofit organizations to address pressing societal needs.
In summary, HCA’s future plans are anchored in responsible expansion, environmental stewardship, and a strong commitment to social responsibility. These initiatives reflect the company's vision of sustainable growth and a meaningful contribution to the well-being of both its employees and the broader global community.