Building a Global Career: Mathias Wahlqvist

I joined Trelleborg as a Treasury Intern in Stockholm in 2012 and later participated in the Graduate Program, which transformed my career. It introduced me to the many opportunities within the Group and inspired me to explore them further.
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Over the years, I’ve worked with various Trelleborg businesses across industries, geographies, and job functions—a reflection of the company’s deliberate approach to developing its people. After several years in Strategy and Finance at both Group and Business Area levels, I transitioned to the Marine & Infrastructure Business Unit. During my time with Marine & Infrastructure, I’ve had the opportunity to build commercial and operational experience, first as a Marine Technology Project Manager, then as Sales Manager for Africa and Product Area Controller in Dubai.

This diverse experience is incredibly valuable in my current role as Managing Director for PA Infrastructure in Rotterdam. Each position built on the last, giving me a well-rounded understanding of how our business operates in different markets and regions.

The international exposure has been particularly rewarding. Working with customers and colleagues from different cultures and business environments has taught me adaptability and provided insights I wouldn’t have gained in a single location. From Stockholm, through Dubai and on to Rotterdam, each step has brought unique challenges and learning opportunities that have shaped me both professionally and personally.

What aspects do you think make Trelleborg an attractive employer?

To me, Trelleborg stands out because of the meaningful impact its employees can make. While our solutions may not always be visible to the general public, they are often found all around us. Whether it's making trains more reliable, ports cleaner or aerospace safer, we play a pivotal role in addressing critical challenges that affect millions of people daily.

Few things are as motivating or purposeful as tackling the world's largest and most important problems. With Trelleborg, you're not only part of this mission—you're empowered and expected to shape it. This isn't about being a small cog in a massive machine; it's about being an active contributor to solutions that matter.

This sense of purpose extends beyond individual projects. Trelleborg's commitment to innovation means that employees are constantly working on next-generation solutions. We're not just maintaining the status quo—we're actively pushing boundaries and setting new standards across industries.

The company's global reach also means that the impact of your work extends worldwide. A solution developed in one location can improve lives and operations across multiple continents. This global perspective adds another layer of meaning to the work we do and creates opportunities for collaboration that are both professionally enriching and personally fulfilling.

Why would you recommend Trelleborg to someone beginning their professional career?

Trelleborg offers an outstanding environment for young professionals at the start of their careers for several important reasons.

First, the company’s decentralized model is built on empowering, engaging and trusting employees at every level. With a high degree of local autonomy, new team members have the chance to make a real impact from day one—accelerating both personal confidence and career progression.

Additionally, Trelleborg’s global presence and diverse business structure provide remarkable opportunities for professional development. Individuals who are eager to collaborate with talented colleagues from around the world will find the environment both dynamic and inspiring. The breadth of industries, geographies and projects creates a rich landscape for learning, growth and meaningful contribution.

Trelleborg’s investment in its people is another standout factor. Through resources like Trelleborg Group University, employees have access to a wide array of training and development programs. These initiatives not only build critical skills but also connect staff with peers from across the globe, fostering both professional growth and a sense of community.

Together, these strengths create a powerful platform for young professionals—offering the support, opportunities and encouragement needed for personal and professional advancement within a global organization.