The instrumentation industry has seen significant advancements, particularly with the rise of digital technologies that have transformed traditional processes. As companies strive to improve efficiency and precision, the focus on product development has evolved, emphasizing innovation and adaptability. The emergence of new technologies, such as microcontrollers, has reshaped the landscape, enabling organizations to enhance their offerings and meet the changing demands of the market.
In this dynamic environment, Thomas Fischer, the CEO of SUTO iTEC, has emerged as a leader driving progress and nurturing talent. With a background in research and development, he has played a fundamental role in promoting a culture of collaboration and open communication. His approach to leadership emphasizes mentoring and empowering the next generation, ensuring that valuable knowledge and skills are passed on within the organization.
SUTO iTEC has established itself as a key player in the field of compressed air measurement and monitoring. With a commitment to excellence, the company continues to explore new market segments and leverage its technological expertise to achieve impressive results. Over the years, it has grown significantly, building a reputation for quality and innovation while fostering a supportive and inclusive workplace culture. This dedication not only drives business success but also creates a sense of community among employees, contributing to a fulfilling work environment.
Building a Family Culture in the Workplace
After graduation, Thomas joined an instrumentation company as a developer in R&D in Germany. This company had a very special management style, with strict development plans that kept everyone busy adhering to the planned schedule. After work, employees from different departments often gathered for drinks in the company canteen, discussing many work-related topics. It fostered a sense of belonging, making everyone feel like a member of a big family. Thomas carried this experience into SUTO iTEC, especially during the early years when the team was still small, which helped to bind the group together.
Experiencing Technology's Evolution in Product Development
During his studies of Electronics, Thomas completed an internship at the instrumentation company in Germany. Their products caught his attention, and he experienced firsthand how the theories he learned at university could be applied in practical product development. It was in the mid-80s when the first microcontrollers emerged, changing product development forever, as everything had previously been analog-based. He was fascinated by the technology and loved creating new products, finding the best reward in seeing that customers liked them.
Navigating Challenges and Embracing Growth
When they started their business, Thomas and his team had a close cooperation with another German company. After some years, this cooperation became difficult, and both sides began to go their own ways. While this is quite normal, in their case, it was not an easy separation and proved to be quite challenging. Ultimately, they found a way for both sides to move on, which served as a kick-off for substantial growth in the following years for Thomas's company.
From Opportunity to Success
In 1999, Thomas and his wife moved to Hong Kong after he received a job offer to establish production and R&D for his former employer in China. At that time, China had just opened up, and he could feel the drive people had to achieve something in their lives. After five years, he decided to start his own business, considering Shenzhen the perfect base. They were able to attract the best engineers, as many wanted to work for a foreigner. Now, almost 20 years later, the company has 150 employees worldwide with solid financial results. Thomas feels a sense of pride in building such a business as a German in China. On a personal level, China has become their home, and they love it there.
Fostering Open Communication and Team Spirit
Thomas keeps all employees informed about the company's performance, achievements, and challenges. Every quarter, they hold a business report via video conference, inviting all staff worldwide to participate. Another important factor is maintaining a low hierarchy within the company to ensure that information can flow easily in both directions. Additionally, it’s not only about working together; they also enjoy celebrating together.
Evolving Customer Engagement for Product Development
When they started, Thomas personally visited customers frequently and could easily gather information on what needed to be developed. As the company grew larger, the sales and marketing teams began to collect feedback from clients and bring it into the product planning meetings, where they sorted out user requirements and planned future product developments. Based on this feedback, they also explored new markets and applications from time to time to expand the business.
Embracing Cultural Similarities and Fostering Development
There are some cultural differences, but they are becoming less pronounced. Thomas observes that, when looking at young Chinese people, he sees few differences compared to their Western counterparts. For him, it is important to maintain an open environment where every staff member can share their opinions and find opportunities to personally develop their careers within the organization.
Finding Balance: Family, Work, and Personal Life
Thomas and his wife do not have children, and he considers his company a kind of family. He loves his job, and while there are sometimes tasks that are not easy—especially when people are involved—he understands that it is his responsibility to do what is required in the best interest of the company. Besides work, they also enjoy their free time, engaging in sports, traveling, and meeting up with friends.
Learning Through Collaboration and Experience
Thomas had the pleasure of working with some great senior engineers and managers. It was not through official training classes that they trained him; rather, it was through learning by working alongside them. He kept his eyes and ears open, trying to absorb as much knowledge as possible from their experience.
Pursuing Excellence and Mentoring Future Leaders
Their vision is to be number one in compressed air measurement and monitoring, which continues to drive them as they close in on that goal. At the same time, they are exploring other market segments where they believe their technology and sales/marketing can achieve good results. As Thomas is not the youngest anymore, he sees his future role more as a mentor. He aims to share his experience and knowledge with the next generation of leadership and is optimistic that they will continue on their successful path.
