PEOPLE OF CNH
HONG LI
Next in our People of CNH series is Hong Li, from CE Commercial Logistics, Australia. Her commitment to her career journey serves to inspire us all. Here is her story.
In 1994, after getting a Master's degree in Agricultural Business Management from China, I ventured to Australia with the primary objective of pursuing advanced studies and embarking on a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) program.
However, I encountered significant challenges in securing funding for my Ph.D. studies. This prompted me to shift my focus towards exploring opportunities in the rapidly growing Asia Pacific market.
It was during this pursuit that I received an unexpected call from the CASE Corporation, which was then acquired by Fiat Group to create the CNH Corporation in 1999. Despite having a solid nine-year tenure at the Economy Institute, I realized that I needed to begin anew, and accepted the offer presented to me.
In August 1997, I officially joined CASE Corporation as a Research Coordinator, undertaking various projects with a predominant focus on the Asia Pacific region.
Following the discontinuation of the strategic division, I transitioned back to the realm of construction within the organization, where I worked in dealer development and forecasting. In 2002, I embarked on a new chapter and joined the joint venture between CNH and the Kobelco Corporation. In 2013, when the joint venture concluded, the company chose to reintegrate approximately 10 to 15 professionals into CNH. As a result, I rejoined CNH as the Commercial Logistics Manager for Construction Equipment (CE), where I oversaw forecasting, supply chain management and dealer support.
Reflecting upon my 26-year journey within the company, I am proud to have navigated through a multitude of roles and positions, each of which has contributed to my growth and development, as well as the continued success of the organization.
What I like about my journey with CNH
Compared to my passion for academia, the construction industry presented an entirely different landscape. This transition exposed me to new experiences, connected me with diverse individuals, and helped me acquire a multitude of skills. Daily interactions with people, troubleshooting challenges and ensuring prompt deliverables became the norm. This fast-paced environment spurred continuous learning and personal growth.
Contributing to communities
My professional pursuits extend across geographical boundaries as I actively engage in contributing to the Sydney Children's Hospitals Foundation and Cancer Council. Whenever I can visit, I do so with a sense of pride, wearing the CNH logo on my cap, t-shirts, and other merchandise from CNH Australia that I sometimes bring as gifts.
This collective effort not only underscores our commitment to philanthropy but also sets CNH apart as a socially responsible organization.
Testimonials from colleagues
“I have had the privilege of knowing Hong for over a decade, and throughout this time, she has consistently been an integral part of the CE division. Hong's professional demeanor is characterized by her exceptional cooperation, unwavering readiness to assist, and a remarkable efficiency in resolving challenges. She is undeniably one of the finest professionals I have had the privilege to collaborate with during my tenure at the company.”
Emanuela Grandi, CE Invoicing Coordination and OEM Order Management
“I’ve known Hong for many years. She managed to create and maintain over time the best dealer service relationship and support to CNH's core teams. Always precise and punctual in the processes, she’s a very dedicated person with a strong work ethic. Along her CNH journey, Hong went through various reorganizations never losing her professionalism and motivation. It is a pleasure to have such a trustworthy individual in my team from both a professional and human point of view.”
Cristina Elvezzi, EMEA & APAC Sales Administration, Process Improvement & Planning
PLANT SPOTLIGHT
SAINT VALENTIN
The Saint Valentin plant has been the European headquarters for the Case IH and STEYR brands since 2006. The plant occupies a surface equivalent to 32 football/soccer pitches.
(170,180 m²) of which,
are covered buildings.
Saint Valentin is one of our most modern and advanced manufacturing facilities for agricultural tractors. Here, quality is a great source of pride for around 760 devoted and skilled people, a third of whom have an agricultural background.
Coordinating 12,000 parts from over 400 suppliers around the world, it specializes in large tractors from 100-300 horse-power (hp). 90% are delivered within Europe and 10% overseas.
Starting with the iconic STEYR 180, through to the first ever continuously variable transmission (CVT) tractors down to our latest Hybrid Drivetrain Konzept tractor. The proudly Made in Austria STEYR tractor technology helps farmers to look to the future with confidence and determination.
The plant is highly committed to the lean philosophy through the adoption of the CNH Business System and works hard to implement its key elements.
production day per tractor
tractors built each year
tractors built since 1947
Johanna Schätz, Teamleader Logistics Cab Assembly:
“With my logistics team I ensure that we have the right parts at the right time for our colleagues at the assembly line. I’m proud to contribute my part to every tractor that leaves our plant.”
Florian Schaferl, Tractor Assembly:
“Everyone in the Saint Valentin team strives to build the best tractors for our customers. Working in an environment with such a positive spirit is very motivating – even more so when we hear the feedback from the market.”
Andreas Derflinger, Process Engineer Plant:
“I am very glad to be part of the team here in Saint Valentin. As a process engineer, we try to continuously improve and develop our processes every day to ensure the best quality for our customers. What makes me most proud is that together as one team we can plan and design the processes for new product launches and thus play an active role in shaping the future of our plant.”
Last month, Case IH and STEYR brands were showcased in front of the European Press during the FarmingRED event. This exciting moment has seen the launch of the Connect Room. Recently installed in Saint Valentin, it will transform how we serve customers. Through the tractors’ connectivity, the technical teams will be able to assist customers virtually, advising them on how to get the best performance, maximizing their tractor’s uptime and, when necessary, taking action to resolve any issue almost in real time.
The event was organized in collaboration with the Swedish supplier, Vaderstad, and it was also an opportunity to unveil the third generation of the STEYR Hybrid CVT and assist a full field demonstration of the Case IH Autonomous Magnum for the first time in Europe.
