Would you like to tell us in what role and area you work?
Ahmet Barus: I work at EnBW in the Infrastructure and Facility Management area, which also includes the mailroom. As a team coordinator, I am responsible for two mailroom locations in Stuttgart (EnBW-City) and Esslingen. My tasks include coordinating the teams as well as being responsible for the digitalization and processing of incoming mail.
So you’ve been involved in digitalization in recent years?
Ahmet Barus: An exciting project that we started even before the coronavirus pandemic is “DigiPost” – the digitalization of incoming mail at EnBW. The goal was to convert incoming paper mail into a digital format. Employees who worked from home during the pandemic were able to handle the digitized mail extremely well, and the project proved to be so successful that it has since become a fixed part of everyday work. Today, all physical incoming mail at the Karlsruhe, EnBW-City and Biberach locations is digitized and made available as PDF documents via Outlook. With regard to the energy transition, the digitalization of paper mail also makes a contribution: participation was previously voluntary, but following a decision by EnBW’s Executive Board, the procedure became mandatory for all organizational units on April 1, 2024.
How long have you been at EnBW and where were you before?
Ahmet Barus: : I’ve been with EnBW for 24 years now and have spent most of my time in the IT sector. Later, I moved to the Infrastructure and Mailroom area. With the “DigiPost” project during the coronavirus period, I took the step into digitalization and was able to actively help shape this exciting development.
What was your first position 24 years ago?
Ahmet Barus: I started as an IT support specialist at the former SIS GmbH in Stuttgart, where I was responsible for the technical support of various stock corporations, including Kraftwerk AG and the holding company. My tasks included providing support and maintenance for hardware and software both on-site and in the field.
How are digitalization and the energy transition connected?
Ahmet Barus: Digitalization is an integral part of the energy transition. One example of this is digital customer contracts, which can be signed electronically instead of being sent by traditional mail.
Do you have a particular motivation or reason that brings you joy at work?
Ahmet Barus: For me, the feeling of responsibility is central. Every morning I know exactly what needs to be done, and that gives me structure and purpose. Especially as I slowly approach retirement, I realize how difficult it will be to give up the familiar work rhythm after 40 years. I see myself as part of a big wheel that I keep turning with my work — and that’s exactly what I value so much. In addition, there’s a great team, a modern and stylish working environment, and a fantastic atmosphere. The company also offers many social benefits, from canteens and cafés to comprehensive social protection.
You’ve also worked in other large companies — are there any differences that stood out to you?
Ahmet Barus: At EnBW, I particularly appreciate the high level of acceptance and appreciation, as well as the family-like atmosphere and close connection within the company. One example of this: 20 years ago, I worked in one area, and to this day, Executive Board member Dirk Güsewell still knows my name. This personal interaction, the excellent working atmosphere, and fair pay make EnBW an exceptional employer.