To build with quality, lead with trust and contribute to something greater than oneself.
During my approximately eight years at ESS I have developed both technically and as a leader. The work involved in building an advanced research facility combines high technical standards with practical experience, flexibility and problem-solving. But above all, it is the people, their expertise and our shared goals that drive the work forward. My colleagues’ commitment, sense of responsibility and willingness to share their knowledge are a crucial strength in our ongoing work.
Cryo Module Installation – a major technical challenge
One of the greatest technical challenges during my time at ESS was the installation of the Cryo Modules within the Accelerator Division. For almost two years, a team of 14 people on average worked on putting theoretical solutions into practice. The work posed high requirements regarding planning, coordination, quality and technical accuracy, where details, tolerances and the interaction between different systems were crucial.
What impressed me most was the team’s ability to solve problems together. The combination of diverse skills, perseverance and a willingness to help one another made the work possible. My role involved both ensuring the installation was carried out to the right standard and creating the conditions for the team to succeed. I have great respect for the professional skill and commitment that everyone brought to the project – a job to be proud of!
Leadership – creating opportunities for others
My work at ESS reinforces my belief that good leadership is based on clarity, trust and a sense of security. Planning, prioritising and making decisions are important, but it is just as crucial to listen and create a working environment where people feel confident enough to take responsibility and contribute their expertise. To me, a good leader sees the whole group, the whole team, and ensures that everyone feels involved. Everyone is needed for the ”cog” to work.
My aim is to give my colleagues the conditions they need to do their best work. Sometimes this means creating structure, removing obstacles or making difficult decisions. At other times, it’s about being there when someone needs support. One important lesson I’ve learnt is that leadership doesn’t require me to have all the answers myself, but rather that I draw on the team’s collective expertise and set a clear direction.
”Beam on dump’ – a moment of pride
One highlight was when ESS reached the ”Beam on dump” milestone. This was when theory, advanced technology and practical experience came together to produce a tangible result that demonstrated that the systems could work together.
Behind this milestone lay countless hours of planning, installation, testing, troubleshooting and problem-solving. For me, therefore, it represents more than just a technical achievement. It demonstrates what many different teams and areas of expertise can achieve through long-term collaboration. I am particularly proud of the people behind this achievement, including those whose contributions are not always visible. When we tested ‘Beam on dump’ after four years of work, I saw a flickering light on a screen and was almost moved to tears. The absolute best thing is that all professional groups have worked together – from researchers and technicians to my team and many more. But what made me and the team particularly proud is that we were the only subcontractor to be featured in ESS’s internal Weekly Report; that means a great deal and builds team spirit.
Experiences that will strengthen our ongoing work
In a complex organisation such as ESS, both the individual parts and the whole must function effectively. This requires communication, coordination and an understanding of each other’s work. I see how difficult challenges become solvable when people share their experiences and take responsibility for more than just their own tasks. ESS continues to shape me, both technically and as a leader. The expertise and trust we build together also strengthen our work going forward. I feel proud to be contributing to the development of the facility and deeply grateful for my colleagues’ commitment. Above all, my time here has taught me that sustainable results are achieved through quality, collaboration and shared responsibility. This is the biggest project I’ve ever undertaken. I’ve been at ESS for eight years – we do nine years of primary school, so eight years really is a long time. I’m so proud. My journey, and that of ESS and Power Heat, is the coolest thing I’ve ever done and will ever do. This is completely unique! / Sebastian
