Team Manager – Engineering Capability Focused on PLM Rollout and Data Buildup

The Team Manager for Engineering Capability at IKEA is responsible for leading a team through various assignments while aligning with IKEA's values and business objectives. This includes guiding the team through changes in a complex environment, developing team competencies, managing recruitment, and implementing unified work processes. Additionally, the manager will identify and lead the development of essential capabilities to enhance business performance and contribute to budgeting processes.

To qualify for the Team Manager – Engineering Capability role at IKEA, candidates should have proven experience in similar leadership positions, the ability to navigate change in complex environments, and a passion for coaching teams. Strong communication skills and a commitment to continuous improvement are essential, along with an understanding of IKEA's business processes or relevant industry experience.

The Team Manager at IKEA plays a pivotal role in team development by enabling the team to perform optimally in line with business priorities. This involves offering coaching, facilitating skill development, managing recruitment to fill gaps, and ensuring that there is a proactive succession plan in place. The manager is also responsible for fostering a culture of continuous improvement within the team.

The work environment for the Team Manager in Älmhult, Sweden, is both collaborative and supportive, with a focus on innovation and continuous improvement. Employees enjoy a flexible work arrangement, including the option to work from home a couple of days each week. There is an emphasis on teamwork and forging strong relationships, while also navigating the complexities of business changes.

The application process for the Team Manager position at IKEA involves registering in the recruitment system and responding to specific questions regarding your contributions to the role, leadership values, and how you manage change. Applications should be submitted by January 19th, and interviews may be conducted on a rolling basis. It's important to note that responses may be slower during the holiday season.

In your response, emphasize your ability to adapt your leadership style based on team dynamics. Highlight how you embody IKEA values in fostering a supportive environment while challenging your team to achieve their best. Consider giving specific examples of how your leadership has positively impacted a project.

Discuss a structured approach to managing change, such as clear communication, involving team members in the transition process, and providing support or training. Use an example from your past experience to illustrate how you successfully guided a team through change.

Be prepared to share your strategies, which might include setting clear goals, providing regular feedback, promoting collaboration, and encouraging professional development. You could also discuss how you measure success and adjust strategies based on team performance.

Talk about establishing regular check-ins, utilizing various communication tools, and fostering an open-door policy. Sharing a personal anecdote where effective communication led to a successful outcome can illustrate your point.

Discuss your familiarity with Product Lifecycle Management, its challenges, and its critical role in product development. Emphasize your past experiences with PLM rollout, underscoring how it enhances efficiency and quality.

Share a specific example where you identified skill gaps in your team and implemented a plan, such as training sessions or mentorship programs. This demonstrates your proactive approach to team growth.

Be ready to discuss your preferred project management methods, whether agile, waterfall, or other frameworks. Provide instances where these tools have led to successful project outcomes under your guidance.

Explain your conflict resolution approach, emphasizing empathy and open communication. Provide a scenario where you successfully resolved conflicts and ensured team harmony.

Discuss the key performance indicators (KPIs) you consider essential for measuring team success, such as project completion rates, quality of deliverables, and team engagement scores. Explain how you use these metrics to foster continuous improvement.

Express your passion for IKEA's values and mission. Talk about how the position aligns with your career goals and how you envision contributing to the company's development objectives.