Energetic, proactive, assertive, and always positive—Contract Manager Táňa Ciferská has been with OKIN for thirteen years, during which time she has built long-lasting relationships with both clients and colleagues. She worked her way up from a technical administration support role to her current position as Contract Manager, where she oversees projects across the entire Czech Republic. She considers responsibility, conscientiousness, open communication, and the ability to inspire those around her to be the keys to success.

How did you get into the sector you work in today?

Essentially, from the very start of my time at OKIN, I’ve been providing support for technical management, liaising with suppliers and clients, and standing in for facility specialists when needed. Before that, I worked for several years as a sales representative in the pharmaceutical sector, but I studied at a technical college specialising in mechanical engineering, and technology has always appealed to me. I wanted a change and felt that the pharmaceutical industry wasn’t fulfilling me. In 2013, I joined Agnieszka Vichová’s team; I spent the first few months in Prague and then began working with Arnošt Gajdušek.

Would you say that you’re now doing the job you’ve always dreamed of?
When I was looking for a new role, I had absolutely no idea where it would take me. Gradually, however, I realised that I really enjoy facility management and that I’m constantly finding new challenges in it. I like the fact that you can work out a lot of things logically and don’t have to learn anything by heart. What’s more, no two days are the same – every situation brings a new experience, and that’s what fulfils me most about this job.

What was the hardest part of the transition to a managerial role?
I had to take on greater responsibility, particularly towards the people in my team. Everyone is different, and finding the right approach isn’t always easy. You need to balance the expectations of the client, the company and your colleagues at the right time and find a solution that works for everyone. At the same time, I believe that a manager should inspire people and create a positive atmosphere. When the team is in an optimistic frame of mind, that carries over into the results of their work.

How would you describe your job to someone who has absolutely no idea what contract management involves?
Our job is to make the client feel that they are important to us. We need to make time for them, build a relationship and be a partner they can rely on. Setting the right priorities and delegating tasks are also crucial. If a client needs something, it’s always the number one priority.

Positive energy as part of leadership

What do you think is the key to a good long-term relationship with a client?
Where possible, I prefer face-to-face meetings. Without them, it’s difficult to build trust. I visit clients regularly. It’s important to find common topics and not just talk about work. Relationships are also built on the little things – for example, wishing a client a happy birthday or going for lunch or a coffee together; these are situations that open up further opportunities for collaboration.

What do you find most challenging when working with clients, and what do you enjoy the most?
I always say that we see things through the client’s eyes. We should offer them the same level of care as if we were managing our own home. Our role is to spot problems before they become a reality and resolve them on the client’s behalf. At the same time, I’ve learnt to work with the very best suppliers and to be fair to all parties, because that’s exactly what the client expects.

Is there anyone who has inspired you professionally?
I’m inspired by people who can make quick decisions and don’t put things off unnecessarily. I’m working on this myself – there’s no point in delaying a decision that can be made straight away. Thinking about things for too long can sometimes be more of a hindrance. I’ve also found inspiration in Baťa’s principles, which describe in very simple terms situations we commonly encounter but often don’t even realise are happening.

Responsibility that inspires

How do you cope with pressure and responsibility?
I’m an athlete, and sport has taught me discipline and perseverance. Of course, there are difficult moments and tough decisions, but I always try to find a way out. I’m an optimist and I try to see the good in people. In my view, taking responsibility is one of the most important qualities.

What leadership style suits you best?
The key is communication and perseverance. I like people who are ambitious and want to keep moving forward – both at work and in their personal lives. It’s important not to stagnate, not to rest on your laurels, and not to let yourself be influenced by negativity or a constant focus on problems.

How do you deal with stressful or conflictual situations?
I try to prevent them, because I don’t like conflict. But if they do arise, I can be firm and openly state how we’ll resolve the situation. Once a problem is resolved, there’s no point in dwelling on it.

Looking back on your career journey, what are you most proud of?
I’m happy with where I am today – both professionally and personally. I believe that if you work responsibly and conscientiously, you can be proud of your work. And I also believe that when I decide to do something, I should do it straight away and not wait for ‘sometime later’. In my view, the ability to make decisions is very important.

What advice would you give to people who are starting out in support or administrative roles today?
Don’t let yourself be put off and do your job to the best of your ability. If you want to achieve something, go for it. I don’t like the word ‘motivation’ – ‘inspiration’ is much closer to my heart. It has lasting power. It’s just as important to encourage others’ enthusiasm, not to take away their plans, and to learn from the people around you.

If you had to choose one word to describe your work, what would it be?
Responsibility. You can’t do without it. And right after that, I’d add conscientiousness, proactivity and communication.

What recharges you most outside of work?
I love spending time with my family, doing sport and travelling. I’m interested in history and people’s life stories, so I enjoy going on sightseeing trips. This year I’m planning to visit the English countryside. I also enjoy reading in the evening before going to bed.