98. VIDEOPODCAST DE UNICA: Raíces firmes, mirada al futuro

The Purpose of Work: Transforming the World

Introduction to the Podcast

• The podcast discusses not just agriculture but broader themes like future, social economy, and innovation.

• The host introduces Loli Rodríguez from the commercial department, highlighting her extensive role in managing various products.

Role of a CCO

• Loli explains that a Chief Commercial Officer (CCO) coordinates teams to ensure maximum organization and profitability in product management.

• Daily operations involve organizing meetings across departments and managing logistics for products.

Current Campaign Insights

• Loli describes daily tasks as routine yet crucial for anticipating potential problems in product management.

• She emphasizes the importance of preemptive organization to avoid issues during busy campaign periods.

Transition Between Campaigns

• Discussion on transitioning between different production areas, such as Almería and Alicante, while managing multiple products simultaneously.

• Loli mentions that they are preparing for the watermelon campaign while still concluding the pepper campaign.

Challenges Faced During Production

Complications in Pepper Production

• A summary of challenges faced during the Almería pepper campaign due to reduced production levels linked to pest issues.

• Loli notes that despite lower yields per hectare, higher prices have somewhat compensated for losses.

Personal Journey within Única

• Loli shares her long-standing involvement with Única since its inception, detailing how it began with five cooperatives aiming to consolidate offerings for better farmer profitability.

• She reflects on initial skepticism surrounding this new cooperative model but acknowledges its eventual acceptance and success.

Introduction to Career Journey

Early Beginnings in CAB

• The speaker began their career at CAB, starting in the warehouse after completing their studies due to a lack of available commercial positions.

• After a health issue with a commercial colleague, the speaker applied for and was selected for a commercial assistant role, marking the transition from warehouse work to sales.

Transition to Commercial Role

• The speaker's journey continued as they became part of the Única project, where they worked under the former commercial director of Cavas.

• They specialized in managing bell peppers and eggplants, noting that different cooperatives had distinct product focuses (e.g., tomatoes or cucumbers).

Evolution of Commercial Work

Changes Over Time

• The speaker reflects on how mobile technology has transformed commercial practices compared to earlier times when mobility was limited.

• Modern tools allow for greater flexibility and management capabilities without being tied to an office or fixed phone lines.

Current Practices

• Today’s sales professionals can directly engage with clients and resolve last-minute issues more efficiently than before.

Impact of New Facilities

Improvements in Work Environment

• The new Única 2.0 building is described as functional, comfortable, and aesthetically pleasing, enhancing overall work conditions.

• The speaker notes improved communication among departments and teamwork compared to previous cramped facilities.

Personal Achievements and Challenges

Professional Growth

• The speaker expresses pride in overcoming gender biases within a traditionally male-dominated industry through opportunities provided by Única.

Team Dynamics and Goals

• Emphasizes the importance of teamwork aligned with shared goals for successful campaign planning and execution.

Key Challenges Faced

Focus on Profitability

• A major challenge is ensuring maximum profitability for farmers while navigating various unpredictable factors like climate changes or pest issues during campaigns.

Evaluation Process

• Post-campaign evaluations are crucial; success is measured by whether farmers achieve expected profitability despite daily challenges encountered throughout the process.

Commercial Team Dynamics and Product Insights

Overview of the Commercial Team

• The current commercial team consists of three members: Jesús Villega, Marcos, and the speaker from Ceco. They are supported by auxiliary staff and billing personnel.

• The Sandía team has expanded to five or six dedicated salespeople who work daily across Spain, indicating a strong commitment to their product line.

Market Recognition and Consumer Demand

• The Sandía brand is well-recognized in national markets, which contributes to consistent customer engagement through regular outreach efforts.

• There is an increasing consumer desire for seasonal products like sandía (watermelon) as warmer weather approaches, reflecting a broader trend of renewal in food preferences.

New Campaign Initiatives

• A new campaign for sandía has been launched with fresh branding and packaging aimed at revitalizing interest while maintaining high quality standards. This reflects a strategic approach to marketing.

Personal Reflections on Work Environment

• When asked about the ideal workday, the speaker emphasizes enthusiasm over specific days of the week, highlighting that motivation is key regardless of timing.

• In envisioning the company's future in five years, there is optimism about significant growth potential that seems unstoppable. This indicates confidence in market strategies and product offerings.

Insights on Product Preferences

• The speaker expresses a preference for orange watermelon due to its novelty and challenge compared to traditional varieties; this highlights an inclination towards innovation within their product range.

• Among various products offered by Unicap, tomatoes are favored for their flavor profile when used in salads, showcasing personal taste aligned with professional interests in produce quality.

Team Interactions and Relationships

• Key relationships within the team include close collaboration with colleagues Marcos and Jesús as well as frequent interactions with Carlos Chieema and Eva regarding product management discussions. This illustrates teamwork dynamics essential for operational success.

Advice for Future Professionals

• If starting anew in their career path, the speaker would maintain their passion for work but encourages women not to fear pursuing opportunities within this field—emphasizing that enthusiasm can lead to success despite challenges faced along the way.

Career Advice for Aspiring Sales Professionals

Importance of Passion and Motivation

• The speaker emphasizes the significance of working comfortably in a field that is attractive and enjoyable, highlighting the importance of passion for the project.

• They encourage young individuals or new sales professionals to pursue their interests with enthusiasm, suggesting that motivation and joy are crucial for success in sales.

Encouragement to Embrace Challenges

• The speaker advises aspiring salespeople not to fear mistakes but rather to embrace them as part of the learning process. They stress the need for a willingness to grow and develop professionally.

• They note that while different companies have varying environments (e.g., smaller family-owned businesses vs. larger corporations), having a genuine interest in the sector can lead to fulfilling opportunities.