Our people : Adriana Mendes

Introduce yourself...When did you join Safic-Alcan? And why? 

I'm Adriana, division manager of the Coatings and Construction department at SA Portugal. 

I have a master's degree in chemical engineering and did research in the area of composites and nanomaterials, but after I finished this project in 2016, I decided to accept the challenge of taking a 180º turn in my life and started working at Safic as a sales technician, in a world that was totally unknown. Why? Because I wanted to experience something different from the laboratory environment, as I have always enjoyed being in contact and dealing with people in my day-to-day life, talking, discussing problems, and learning from the experience of those around me. 

How would you describe your experience working with different collaborators, customers and everyone you encounter? 

I believe that the best way to learn is to be surrounded by more experienced, knowledgeable people with different views from ours. They help us open our minds to try to understand other perspectives and discuss issues from many different angles. 

It has been a big challenge, mainly not being focused on just one specific topic, but learning about everything. Learning from my customers, finding solutions to the problems they face daily, always with the support of our best partners and my colleagues.

Any highlights of your experience with Coatings Customers so far at Safic-Alcan? 

I am proud to be part of this team, my resilience is put to the test with every difficulty I face, but this is also a challenge, and a game I like to play… and win. 

Thanks to Safic, I have created ties and friendships with incredible people who add a lot to me and help me face difficulties in a lighter way. 

In Portugal we say ‘’dress the shirt’’ when we feel that something belongs to us and we fight as a team for the same goal, so I proudly dress the Safic shirt. 

What are some of the trends to look out for Coatings that could possibly contribute to achievement of a Greener Future? 

One of my personal causes is to fight for a sustainable and environmentally healthy planet. Knowing that my customers are increasingly looking for bio-based raw materials, with less environmental impact, taking advantage of by-products from other industries for different purposes, makes me very satisfied. It means that the mindset in general is changing. Of course, it takes time, but as far as I am concerned, I will always promote this type of raw material even more diligently. I hope that the next generation can enjoy water-based and eco-friendly coatings almost exclusively. 

So, besides work, what does Adriana MENDES do for fun? 

I love running in the park with my best friend - Hamilton, the cutest Labrador on the planet. Sometimes it gives me a headache, especially when he tries to do some DIY in my garden, but it's my faithful companion. The one who welcomes me every day with all the happiness after hard days at work. I also like to travel with my friends. Getting to know new places, people and different cultures and food is something that gives me great pleasure. Furthermore, I really like to cook. It was something I discovered during the pandemic, at that time I became a vegetarian and exploring flavours and new recipes is something I really enjoy doing.