7 minute read
Rediana Bajrami: Inspired by the 5S Principle in Japan
By Rudina Hoxha
Rediana Bajrami, who works at the Ministry of Finance and Economy in the role of the Head of cooperation, agreements and contracts sector, comes to TRAILBLAZING MAGAZINE to narrate her journey that has guaranteed an excellent career for her today.
In particular, she is in charge of the internal procedures when it comes to the signing of the economic cooperation agreements and institutional cooperation memorandums as well as agreements on foreign investments’ promotion and protection. She also deals with the procedures for the intergovernmental commissions’ sessions.
She has gone through many trainings but the one which has impacted her most has been the one in Japan.
TRAILBLAZING MAGAZINE invites you to read Rediana’s insights.
Full interview below:
Hello Rediana! Would you like to introduce yourself?
Thank you for giving me the opportunity to be interviewed today. Currently, I work at the Ministry of Finance and Economy as Head of the cooperation, agreements and contracts sector.
My convictions in leadership are loyalty, hard work, integrity, enthusiasm and energy. I am passionate about what I believe and the work that I do. Since we use so much of our day in the workplace, it is imperative that we are productive with our time. Over the years of my career, it has been my joy to learn adapt myself to various situations and challenges, never being afraid to take on difficult, seemingly impossible tasks. This is how I have been able to grow into each of the positions that I have been entrusted with throughout the last decade.
I have worked with some great leaders and incredible teams, always seeing my role to utilize enthusiasm, to make a positive impact on my colleagues and those around me.
Making a significant contribution by aiding others in stressful and urgent situations gives me a sense of confidence and belief that I can make a lasting difference. As Mother Teresa once said, “It’s not how much we give but how much love we put into giving.”
You have worked in the public sector for some years, initially in the High Inspectorate of the Declaration and Audit of Assets and Conflict of Interests, then in the Ministry of Economic Development, Tourism, Trade and the Albanian Investment Development Agency. Lately you are in charge of the same Sector of cooperation, agreements and contracts at the Ministry of Finance and Economy as you worked previously. Describe your current work experience, please.
I consider it a privilege to work in this sector, because negotiating and following the procedures for economic agreements/ memorandums with different countries is both interesting and a great responsibility.
Photo family at the end of the training in Japan.
To be effective one must take into consideration the importance of trade and economic relations between both parties, being guided by the common desire to develop mutual interest and understanding. The aim of the agreements is to promote bilateral economic cooperation.
The process of negotiation has proven to be an interesting challenge because it is both intricate and multifaceted which can last multiple years and involve many procedures and it still fascinates me.
The sessions of the joint intergovernmental commissions take place within economic and commercial cooperation agreements between the Council of Ministers of the Republic of Albania and the Governments of other countries.
For about a dozen times I have been able to be the delegation representative of the economic cooperation sector for these commissions which have produced protocols helping to bridge and strengthen international economic relations for the Republic of Albania.
What problems or hurdles do you actually face in your job?
One example is when there are difficult tasks that demand teamwork from different colleagues who all come from various backgrounds and I get to work with them all to find a solution.
Often I have to help facilitate the exchange of ideas and opinions to achieve an acceptable outcome.
I realize stressful situations are always going to come up and I definitely have had to learn how to navigate them throughout my career and I have the opportunity to get better at remaining calm under pressure with every new experience.
How enjoying work has led you to great work results?
Steve Jobs eloquently said that “The only way to do great work is to love what you do.” Passion drives me to enjoy my work and helps me to overcome obstacles in the workplace. If you feel confident and secure with the work you are producing, you will be able to complete it to your fullest potential. Persistence has led to quality work that elevates me and brings me that much closer to my next goal. Working, brainstorming, and discussing with my colleagues helps foster interest in work and create enthusiasm. Knowing that my efforts are on the right track motivates me to exert greater effort. Doing the work you love is stimulating and creates positive feedback which both boost productivity.
How has a series of meetings in Europe and training abroad, specifically in Japan, influenced your career development? Can you share some interesting episodes from these times with our readers?
I feel blessed that I got the chance to experience different countries and cultures because it helped me to improve my performance, acquire new skills, and make me more efficient at my job and more capable of handling various responsibilities and challenges.
The training strengthens my confidence because I have a deeper understanding of my role and responsibilities to perform even better and think of new ideas. The extending of my knowledge with advanced concepts and practices of the Japanese SME-s helped me and the department to achieve better performance as well as sharing the excellent Japanese experience with my colleagues.
I would like to emphasize that the “Production Management for Southeast European Countries” course helped me to understand the reason why Japan is among the most developed countries in the world and I’m very impressed by its history, culture, and tradition.
The 5S principle, as a fundamental base of the company management, is an organisation structure that prioritises efficiency and effectiveness at work place. The 5S technique, created in Japan, empowers businesses to realize these targets through the usage of five key steps. 5S is derived from the philosophy of “kaizen”, which simply means “continuous improvement”.
I have seen the excellent implementation of these principles during the visits in many companies such as Ryugetsu Sweetpia Garden, Nichinoki Seiko, and Toyota Motor Corporation. One saying that stands out is: “You never get a second chance to create a first impression.” So grateful for all the unforgettable experiences.
The first Toyota, manufactured in 1935
When you go back in time, how important has been for your career being determined and a risk-taker?
For me, taking risks has eliminated the possibility of looking back and asking ‘What if?’ Even when I have failed, I have been able to walk away with more knowledge which has led me to further successes in other areas. Taking risks has also made me more confident and also has driven me closer to and led me to achieve my objectives.
What is next for you? Where do you see yourself in the near and distant future?
Well, I’m still considering my options for the future. In the near future, I envision myself being the best that I can be in my current role.
I enjoy situations that test my knowledge and require me to utilize my skills while working hard. I want to be in the action a little bit more instead of being behind the scenes. Hopefully in the future I can discover fresh challenges which will further develop my skills and abilities.
Toyota partner robot
One of the cakes which has received international prizes. Moments from our visit in Ryugetsu Sweetpia Garden company, Japan.
View from another cake which received international prizes. Moments from our visit in Ryugetsu Sweetpia Garden company, Japan.
