According to many, UPM HR Service Center is much more than just a workplace. It is a close-knit community and a living proof that a diverse team, guided by the same values, can accomplish great things together. And that teamwork can extend beyond the office walls.
Different backgrounds, one team
Opened in 2012, the UPM HR Service Center in Kraków boasts a strong employee community, made up of 100 human resources professionals, who support UPM in more than 40 countries around the world. Representing different nationalities – including Finland, Poland, Ukraine, Germany or Spain – and varying levels of seniority and experience (ranging from just a few weeks to 17 years at the company), they feel empowered to bring their unique perspectives and ideas to the table in a friendly, welcoming environment.
“Diversity and inclusion are at the heart of our team, which means we make sure everyone feels valued and heard, regardless of their background or experience. I believe, what truly makes us a community is the genuine care and respect we have for each other. We celebrate each other's successes, learn from our challenges and work together towards common goals,” says Kamila, HR Specialist.
“We are from different cultures, but we all share the same values. You really feel welcome here from day one,” shares Paula, HR Specialist from Finland, whose move to Kraków turned into a long-term stay when she was given the opportunity to grow in her chosen career path. "The HR Service Center is a great example of how UPM’s core values – trust and be trusted, achieve together, and renew with courage – are put into practice every day,” she adds.
From colleagues to community
With a focus on collaboration, responsibility and honest communication, the company values form the foundation of its culture, fostering a sense of community where everyone feels respected and welcome. It is the feeling of belonging that makes all the difference, bringing employees closer together, both at work and outside of it. From time spent together during lunch to creative workshops, cinema outings and sports events, shared experiences strengthen employee bonds and contribute to the well-being of the UPM community.
“Our community is vibrant, very lively and very active! We spend a lot of time together outside of work, whether it is during our weekly sports sessions or other free time activities,” says Arttu, Senior HR Specialist.
“What makes UPM HR Service Center unique is how it puts people first. The company invests in our well-being through wellness workshops and team building activities, making sure that we stay connected and energized,” adds Kamila.
Making a difference together
However, there is more to their time together than unwinding after work – the team love finding ways to make a difference in their local community.
“We take part in volunteering and other activities, which help us give back to the community and build stronger connections with each other. For example, a group of us got together to sew pillows for a retirement home for Christmas. It was a great experience—helping the elderly and spending time together made our bonds even stronger,” sums up Kamila.
“Every year we hold a Christmas auction where employees can offer homemade goods or services, such as language lessons or guided tours. The proceeds are donated to support causes like Szlachetna Paczka, our local senior home or animal shelter,” says Ula, Senior HR Specialist.
So far, the team have collected donations for a retirement home, supported an animal shelter, donated clothes to second-hand shops for flood victims, fulfilled Christmas wishes for seniors, planted trees to help the planet and participated in charity runs. And that is just the start of what they can do. Through acts like these, this employee community not only builds stronger relationships at work but also makes a meaningful impact outside the office. What they have created together inspires them to help others, sharing that sense of community everywhere they go.
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