In celebration of World Quality Day, we're happy to spotlight Mikolaj Kugler, our Quality Manager at CATTS, whose steadfast commitment to excellence drives the standards we hold ourselves to every day. With an impressive background in quality assurance and a passion for continual improvement, Mikolaj ensures that our products and services not only meet but exceed expectations, helping us deliver consistently reliable results to our clients.
Below, Mikolaj shares insights into his role, experiences, and the values that guide his work in quality management at CATTS, giving us a closer look at what drives his dedication to upholding our standards.
A New Journey in Quality
After 25 years in higher education, Mikolaj transitioned to CATTS, embracing the challenge of applying his expertise in quality assurance to the realm of international trade. "CATTS offered the perfect opportunity to leverage my background in quality in a fresh environment," Mikolaj explains. His role as Quality Manager involves coordinating the Quality Management System (QMS) to meet ISO 9001 standards, ensuring CATTS' services meet the high expectations of its clients.
What Motivated You to Join CATTS?
“What attracted me to CATTS was the company’s dedication to structured, quality-driven practices,” Mikolaj explains. He was inspired by CATTS’ commitment to providing top-tier services, seeing it as an opportunity to shape quality standards across international trade services.
Professional Experience and Skills
Mikolaj’s background has equipped him with analytical skills, attention to detail, and a strong commitment to quality. “I bring a blend of academic rigor and hands-on quality management experience,” he notes. He continues to deepen his expertise through ongoing training, practical experience, and involvement in quality audits and standards.
A Key Accomplishment
One of Mikolaj’s notable achievements was leading CATTS Poland’s acquisition of AEO Authorization, an important certification that enhances trust and compliance for CATTS and its clients. “It was a challenging project, but a rewarding one, as it marked a significant step forward for our operations,” he reflects.
Finding Fulfillment in Quality
For Mikolaj, the most fulfilling part of his work is seeing how quality improvements positively impact the team and clients. “A strong quality management system enhances efficiency and builds customer confidence,” he says. His passion for process improvement is clear in his drive to create streamlined systems that support CATTS' objectives.
Personal Interests Outside of Work
Outside of CATTS, Mikolaj values personal development and well-being. He enjoys running, traveling, and spending quality time with his family. These interests help him stay grounded and bring a well-rounded perspective to his work.
How Does Your Role Align with CATTS' Mission?
Mikolaj’s role directly supports CATTS' mission of delivering reliable, high-quality services. “By focusing on quality, we meet client needs consistently and build trust in our services,” he explains. He appreciates CATTS' collaborative environment, which fosters innovative problem-solving and professional growth.
Overcoming Challenges
One of the challenges Mikolaj faces is aligning quality efforts across CATTS’ global team, especially while working remotely. “Balancing daily tasks with quality contributions requires a team mindset,” he says. Regular, clear communication helps bridge time zones and cultural differences, keeping everyone aligned.
Team Collaboration at CATTS
Collaboration is essential to Mikolaj’s approach. He works closely with colleagues across teams to ensure consistent quality standards. “Regular communication helps us proactively address challenges and foster teamwork,” he explains. One memorable team effort was securing the AEO Authorization, a project that showcased the strength of collaboration within CATTS.
Looking Ahead: Future Aspirations
In the future, Mikolaj aims to implement additional management systems, like an Information Security Management System, integrated with the QMS. “This would allow us to uphold high standards across various domains,” he says. He is particularly excited about achieving ISO 9001 certification, which validates CATTS' commitment to continuous improvement.
Advice for Aspiring Quality Professionals
Mikolaj advises those entering the field to stay resilient and focused. “Quality management involves advocating for high standards, which can sometimes be challenging. Remember, quality is a team effort,” he notes, emphasizing the importance of collaboration to achieve shared goals.
Staying Positive and Moving Forward
Mikolaj’s optimistic approach keeps him motivated. “Every experience has value, even if it doesn’t go as planned,” he says. This perspective helps him see each challenge as an opportunity to learn and improve, aligning perfectly with CATTS’ commitment to excellence.
Keep an eye out for more profiles in our Meet the Crew series, as we continue to introduce the talented individuals at CATTS.