At Contiweb, innovation is at the core of everything we do. Every day, our team works on continuously improving and optimizing our products and processes. This applies not only to our technology but also to our employees. Our Development & Engineering (D&E) department is evolving rapidly, and with several open vacancies, now is the perfect time to take a look behind the scenes. We spoke with Martin Smallegange, Director of Development & Engineering, about the future of innovation at Contiweb.
A Fresh Perspective on Development
Since July 2024, Martin Smallegange has been part of Contiweb as Director of Development & Engineering. With a broad background in innovation, general management, production, and marketing & sales, he brings valuable experience from international roles at various companies. Over the past few months, he has focused on developing a new strategy for the department, emphasizing new business opportunities and product development.
What sets Contiweb apart is its in-depth application knowledge at all levels of the company. Our expertise in drying, web handling, and splicing contributes to optimizing printing presses and easing the workload for operators. The work environment at Contiweb is characterized by close collaboration, a no-nonsense mentality, and a strong customer focus. Our modern and innovative headquarters foster teamwork and promote a dynamic work culture, making it an inspiring place to work.
A Necessary Strategic Course
Our Development & Engineering department plays a crucial role in Contiweb’s growth and future. Therefore, redefining collaboration between D&E and other departments has been essential. The new strategy focuses on two pillars: Explore (exploring new markets) and Exploit (expanding activities within existing markets). Collaboration is key in this approach, both internally—with departments like Aftermarket and Sales—and externally, with technology partners and end-users.
“As a company, we aim to respond quickly to market trends, customer needs, and new opportunities. By restructuring the D&E department, we increase our agility and effectiveness,” Martin explains. Innovation sprints play a key role in this transformation. During an innovation sprint, new business ideas are tested for feasibility and customer value over a short, intensive period of 8 to 12 weeks. This enables us to quickly determine whether an idea has potential and is worth further development.
A recent example of successful innovation at Contiweb is the integration of the CB module into the C-platform. This automatic splicer (non-stop roll change) bridges the gap between web-fed and sheet-fed printing technologies. Such technological advancements allow us to stay ahead in the industry.
The Role of Employees in Innovation
Innovation is deeply embedded in Contiweb’s company culture. The new strategy offers employees fresh opportunities and challenges. “We encourage our people to think outside the box, develop new ideas, and collaborate on innovative solutions—always with customer needs as the starting point,” says Martin.
This approach makes Contiweb an attractive employer for professionals driven by technology and innovation. We provide not only room for personal and professional growth but also the opportunity to make a real impact in an ever-evolving industry.
Interested in Working at Contiweb?
Contiweb stands out with a strong focus on innovation and offers a work environment where employees can reach their full potential. Thanks to our open culture, short communication lines, and structured, integrated approach to innovation, employees can excel and contribute to groundbreaking developments in the printing and packaging industry.
For those seeking an exciting career in technology and customer-driven innovation, Contiweb is the ideal workplace.
Currently, we have several exciting vacancies in the Development & Engineering department, including positions for Business Developer, Software Engineer, and Application Engineer. Curious about the opportunities? Visit www.werkenbijcontiweb.nl/jobs and discover how you can contribute to the future of Contiweb!
