For the second year in a row, GLS Romania has chosen to continue its partnership with the Sibiu International Theater Festival and to share with the Sibiu community the celebration of 30 years of FITS. Trust in people, the strength of a team and quality, are the elements that have strengthened this partnership for many years to come.

And because in any good team people make the difference, this year we spoke with Lucian Jeder, sales director of GLS Romania. He is from Sibiu, he joined the GLS team since the first day of the company’s establishment in Romania and for over 11 years, he is the one who knows, the one who travels the country, talks to customers, creates sales strategies and seeks to maintain the high quality of services.

What are the main assets of Sibiu, when it comes to the image of the city, taking into account the experience you have in the field of sales?

Lucian Jeder: From the perspective of the salesman, born and raised in Sibiu, I can say that this city is unique in our country. Beyond its well-known cultural assets such as its rich history, well-preserved medieval architecture, picturesque squares and vibrant atmosphere, Sibiu has so much to offer that it is impossible not to at least consider staying here once you manage to experience even a tiny part of its charm.

The fact that we are positioned in the heart of the country and that we have quick access to all major cities is an advantage worth exploiting for the development of business and tourism. The GLS headquarters is in Sibiu, and this asset is one of those that set us apart from our competition on the market, an asset that we have promoted every time to potential clients.

Also, let us not forget that Sibiu is a well-known university center that attracts students from all over the country and from abroad. Being myself a graduate of the “Lucian Blaga” University of Sibiu, majoring in Communication and Public Relations, I can say that the opportunities that the Sibiu academic community offers (quality of education, cultural activities, conferences, symposia, etc.) not only train talented and creative professionals, but also bring visibility and recognition to Sibiu as an innovative city with strong cultural resources.

What made you choose GLS and stay on the team for so many years?

Lucian Jeder: I have been part of the GLS team since the first day of its establishment. I participated in the development of the organization, and looking back, I notice how, at the same time, I also developed as a sales person.

I don’t believe in standard recipes for winning a person’s loyalty. I think you have to be genuine and transparent. This is where company values ​​and organizational culture come into play. GLS Romania has a positive and inclusive organizational culture that promotes a sense of belonging and encourages employee commitment.

With around 250 people employed in the main office and several thousand collaborators and partners spread throughout the country, GLS has always known how to bring almost everyone together by organizing internal events, from team buildings to relational psychology trainings, intended to contribute both to the personal development of each employee and to our development as a group.

What I’ve learned in the 11+ years I’ve been leading the sales department is that a supportive and collaborative work environment can make employees feel valued and motivated to stay with the company. Individual experiences and motivation can vary greatly, and the main reason why you choose to be loyal to a company is from the perspective of personal values ​​that align with organizational ones.

What projects has the GLS team chosen to get involved in this year and what is the message you want to convey to the community?

Lucian Jeder: It is important for us to ensure that the message aligns with the actions of the projects we support. That is why GLS Romania supports local and national NGOs year after year. The colleagues responsible for CSR projects create an effective mix of projects that we support.

From local sports associations, associations that rescue and care for abandoned animals, foundations that help children in unpleasant situations, from cultural events to reforestation actions, we try every year to cover as varied a range of NGOs as possible. There are many causes worthy of support, but we make sure that where we can help, we will bring joy, a smile to many people’s faces. It is only together that we can do great things!

You are always in direct contact with customers, attending conferences, meetings, etc. What are three essential things in establishing a relationship with the community? Why do you think there is a need for the cultural and educational environment to be supported by the private business environment?

Lucian Jeder: Building a strong relationship with the community, whether it’s an individual or a business, is crucial to fostering trust, support and a positive reputation. That’s why active involvement in the community, transparency and communication of plans and processes, supporting local causes are the first 3 things that come to mind when I think of a healthy and sustainable relationship with the community.

In terms of supporting the cultural and educational environment by the private business sector, there are several reasons why this collaboration is beneficial. First of all, a strong educational environment supported by private companies can contribute to the formation of a qualified workforce that can meet the ever-evolving needs of industries.

Secondly, a thriving cultural environment is vital to the social fabric of a community. At the same time, through active local involvement, private companies can contribute to the preservation and promotion of cultural heritage, support artistic endeavors and sponsor cultural events and festivals. This will improve the quality of life in the community, attract tourists and create a dynamic and attractive environment that benefits everyone.

It’s the second year that GLS partners with FITS. How would you describe this partnership?

Lucian Jeder: I grew up with the city, since 2007 when Sibiu was the European Capital of Culture, I knew that there is a huge potential for culture. Here we are in the second year that we partner with the International Theater Festival in Sibiu and through this we emphasize the company’s commitment to the community, to culture.

Our participation as a sponsor of the festival means more than just financial support. We are actively involved with passion and dedication in this collaboration, aware of the positive impact that FITS has on the community and are delighted to be able to support an internationally renowned festival that promotes innovation and artistic expression in all its forms. In addition, GLS employees are proud to work for a company that supports the arts and helps strengthen the local community.