Interview with Michael Kiene

Look behind the scences of SABEU – Part 14 and meet Michael Kiene.

For 28 years, Michael has been a cornerstone of SABEU - and we can’t imagine the company without him! 

What drives him? 

  • Numbers, responsibility, and staying active. 
  • From logistics to management - his career path at SABEU
  • How the weekly running meeting connects colleagues
  • Why a calculator is indispensable for him
  • How he designs occupational safety with vision

Curious? Read on!

Michael started his career at SABEU in the warehouse, became a production foreman, then production manager – and eventually went back to school to study business administration. Since 2018, he has been Head of Central Services, responsible for Purchasing, Finance, Accounting, Occupational Safety, and Fire Protection.

But his impact goes far beyond the desk. Every week, Michael leads the SABEU running group – an initiative by our People & Development team. Between two and six colleagues join regularly, including one who’s semi-retired but still going strong. As a passionate endurance athlete, Michael has completed two Ironman triathlons and recently took part in a running tour across Spain.

What does he value most at SABEU?
“The teamwork, the freedom to shape things, and the variety in my role. I truly enjoy working here – and many of my colleagues have been around even longer than I have. At SABEU, you really can make a difference.”

A Numbers Enthusiast with an Eye for Detail
What brings him the most joy? “Definitely working with numbers. I enjoy building calculation models, analyzing data, and improving processes.”
Michael also handles budget planning, monthly reporting for management, and cost center evaluations. His must-haves? A computer – and a trusty calculator (plus a backup one, just in case). 

Safety First
Michael is also the go-to person for workplace safety and fire protection – both internally and in collaboration with the local authorities and fire department. “Thankfully, we’ve never had any major incidents – when we built our new facility, I made sure safety and structure were integrated from day one.”

Thank you, Michael, for your dedication, versatility, and team spirit – in the office, on the running track, and beyond!
 

Interview (Part 13) - Sandra Schild >

Interview (Part 12) - Anja Rollberg >