“At NN, I never had to choose between my career and my family.”
“At NN, I never had to choose between my career and my family.”
From procurement to IT: Szilvia on building her path at NN Hungary
When Szilvia Kara (33) joined NN Hungary in 2018, she sought a good fit rather than a long-term career plan. “It was the people and the atmosphere that convinced me,” she recalls. “I started as an operational procurement assistant, also looking after office catering. I didn’t know much about the company itself back then, but now, after seven years, it’s NN that keeps me here.”
Her career has since taken an unexpected turn. With encouragement and training, Szilvia transitioned into IT – first as a back office administrator and now as a junior IT process management expert. “From the beginning, I was trained for more. My manager put a lot of effort into developing me, signed me up for training and kept pushing me to grow. I still have a lot to learn, but the support has been incredible.”
Growing through change
Szilvia’s journey wasn’t just about switching career paths. After her first role, she took maternity leave to have her son, who is now three. When she returned, NN welcomed her back into a new position with new challenges. “I never felt that becoming a mother limited my opportunities. HR managed everything smoothly, and my manager trusted me to take on more responsibility. Balancing a career shift, training and a toddler was a lot, but NN made it as easy as it could be.”
She smiles as she recalls online meetings: “No one complains if your child shows up in the background. That’s part of the culture here. It’s family-friendly, flexible, understanding. I always wanted a role where I didn’t have to choose between work and life. At NN, I’ve found it.”
Steep learning curve
Stepping into IT came with its challenges. “Sometimes I feel like a toddler learning to walk again,” Szilvia admits. “Understanding technical language, building my confidence... it can be tough. But I learn something new every day and can see how far I’ve come.”
Her most significant source of motivation is her team. “The atmosphere here is unique. I’ve never experienced such a supportive community at work. Everyone is helpful and wants you to succeed. That’s why I’ve stayed.”
A journey of growth and belonging
Looking back, Szilvia is proud of the path she has carved. “I’ve had three different positions, each showing growth. And after seven years, I know almost everyone at NN Hungary,” she laughs. “It really feels like a community.”
When asked what advice she would give someone considering NN, her answer is simple: “Do it. It doesn’t matter where you start. If you show that you can do more, they will notice and give you the chance. That’s what happened to me.” For Szilvia, NN is not just an employer, but the place where she’s grown as both a professional and a mother. “Here, you can truly have both – a career and a life.”
“Say yes to what challenges you—start small, adapt, and keep moving, because progress is the real goal.”
"NN gave me a challenge for seasoned professionals and trusted me to rise to it."
“At NN, everyone is happy to help you with your development”
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