Matthias is not only a dedicated and versatile person in his private life. He also shows full commitment at BPN. In addition to his regular concert events in his spare time, he lives in a 12-person shared apartment in Olten and maintains a large circle of friends. This openness and versatility is also reflected in his professional commitment. At BPN, the soon-to-be 40-year-old applies the same passion and energy to the various projects entrusted to him.
Matthias, could you tell us a little about your journey from your work as a teacher to your current position at BPN?
After my studies at the PH Bern, I taught for 5 years. Although I liked the job, I was looking for something more varied and when I saw the job ad for a 20% accounting position at BPN, I spontaneously applied, with the possibility to expand my workload later.
I remember the interview very well. It turned out that there was a chance to take over more than just accounting work. A mediamatician was planning to leave the company and I could also take over this position since I am a trained mediamatician myself.
Thus, in the first years at BPN, I worked about 60-70% and continued to work as a teacher on the side on a daily basis. Since 2017, however, I have been fully dedicated to my work at BPN.
What have been the biggest changes for you at BPN over the past 10 years?
The office is now more in the center, more in the city. I really enjoy this central location. Although the previous location on Fabrikstrasse was also wonderful. I had the honor of taking over the office from Jürg Opprecht. Of course, the team has also changed again and again. I would say, however, that we have generally moved closer together over all these years. Today, more than ever, I feel like "we are one" and I really appreciate the great team!
In addition, a technological development took place within these 10 years - not only at BPN but of course also globally. It was interesting to experience this and to help shape it.
What exciting projects were you involved in during your time at BPN?
I had the privilege of being up close and personal with the launch of BPN in Georgia. I still remember setting up the first computers for the local team and preparing ourselves for the tasks ahead.
Another highlight was certainly the certification of BPN by Zewo. As project manager, I was able to participate in numerous exchanges between BPN and Zewo. We optimized processes and at the same time could be proud of the fact that we were already in an exemplary position in terms of reporting and had this confirmed. The entire process was an educational experience.
Of course, I also really enjoy our major events such as the donation weekend at Lenkerhof. I am responsible for the event technology and we have been able to constantly improve and professionalize over the past few years. It's always a great feeling when everything runs smoothly and the visitors are delighted.
After 10 years, what still motivates you to be fully involved with the BPN Foundation and what makes working here special for you?
For me, it is above all the joy I feel when I observe the progress and developments of the individual entrepreneurs in the countries and see what they have achieved over the years. These achievements reinforce my belief that BPN's work is meaningful and necessary, which continues to motivate me. The great team spirit at BPN also helps me to feel at home here.
Furthermore, working at BPN is never boring. Internally, we have set ourselves the goal of becoming even more professional and constantly developing. This ongoing drive to improve makes it particularly exciting to see how we progress and develop.
I am infinitely grateful for the many BPN supporters who make our work possible in the first place. Without them, it would not be possible to work at BPN. It is by no means a matter of course that I can do my job at BPN. It is only thanks to loyal donors that we are able to continue our work in the countries. I would therefore like to take this opportunity to thank all our long-standing partners!
Anecdote about Matthias' helpfulness, versatility and composure:
Caroline was working with BPN's oldest employee, the 25-year-old shredder, when suddenly a document got stuck, jamming the machine and wildly throwing bits of paper around. Caroline stood helplessly in front of a pile of paper shreds that meanwhile covered the entire office floor. It was almost 1:20 p.m. and the ambassador of Kyrgyzstan was scheduled to arrive at the office for a visit at 1:30 p.m. that day. At that moment, Matthias returned from his lunch break and reacted with lightning speed. He reached for the toolbox, repaired the equipment and cleaned up the mess in the office before the ambassador arrived. Just in time for the ambassador's arrival, Matthias, calm, friendly and courteous, offered a coffee and the previous chaos went unnoticed.
