Susanne Vinje

Susanne Vinje

My job

Title/organization/location: Market analyst (alumina), Hydro’s Aluminium business area, Oslo.

My job is quite varied. I start every morning by reading the latest news on the global alumina market. I also prepare alumina presentations, as well as meet with individuals from different departments to answer and discuss various questions within alumina.

Occasionally I go on study trips. I was recently in China to learn more about how much and where they produce alumina. I also travel to conferences two to three times a year to meet other analysts and hear their perspectives on the market. This past spring I was in Athens where I met several new market analysts. The opportunity to travel and see other parts of the world is both educational and exciting.

My job has led to cultivating numerous new contacts from various facets of the company, helping me to learn more about other areas of business. I’ve also had the chance to help develop strategies. I work frequently with engineers and continually acquire new knowledge about technical things I would not otherwise have the opportunity to learn.

It’s important in this job to work independently, analytically and accurately. You must also be flexible and think internationally. Travel often comes up suddenly. It’s important to master English, both written and spoken, where it’s the working language. It doesn’t hurt to master other languages either.

I suggest to others interested in working for Hydro to start in the trainee program. It’s a great introduction and opportunity to work with experienced people, and mentors who comment on your work, your strengths and where you can improve.