How I learned to lead – my journey to becoming a regional manager
With nearly 30 years of company history, numerous career milestones, and plenty of courage to blaze new trails, Robert Schlönvoigt knows the Nagel-Group like few others. His professional journey began in 1994 with a business apprenticeship in Berlin; today, as a regional manager, he oversees several locations. In between, he has gained countless experiences, moved to different locations, and, above all, developed the conviction that true growth always begins with people.
It was clear to Robert early on that he wanted to take on responsibility. After completing his apprenticeship, he moved into scheduling and, just a few years later, took on his first management role. This was driven not only by his professional development but also by the opportunity to delve deeply into the topics of communication and leadership through seminars and continuing education. Looking back, he recalls:
“Even back then, I knew I wanted to keep growing. I didn’t know exactly where I was headed yet, but I knew I had to do more.”
Robert Schlönvoigt, Area Manager West 1 at the Nagel-Group
Growth begins outside your comfort zone
A decisive turning point came in 2006: Robert left his hometown of Berlin and moved to the Saarland to take on a new role. For him, this step was far more than just a change of location.
“Personal growth begins when you’re willing to step outside your comfort zone.”
This decision would have a significant impact on the rest of his career. In the years that followed, Robert repeatedly took on new challenges as a division manager, later as a branch manager, and finally as a regional manager. Looking back, he says that it was precisely his willingness to embrace change that allowed him to grow both professionally and personally. Today, he looks back on this time with great gratitude: “When I look back now, it was exactly these changes that were the moments when I grew the most personally.”
The Nagel-Group offers opportunities if you seize them
For Robert, one of the greatest advantages of the Nagel-Group is the wide range of development opportunities. Whether it’s a different department, a different location, or even a move abroad, those who are willing to break new ground will find numerous opportunities for personal and professional growth.
He particularly emphasizes how much these opportunities have expanded in recent years: “Today, anyone who truly wants to and is ready to take on responsibility can forge their own path. The Nagel-Group provides excellent conditions for this.”
In his view, modern leadership programs, targeted workforce development, and an open culture of feedback create the best conditions for fostering talent and supporting its long-term development.
Robert Schlönvoigt, Area Manager West 1 at the Nagel-Group
Leaderships means helping people succeed
Robert offers a particularly compelling description of how his understanding of leadership has evolved over the years. While professional expertise used to be the primary focus, something entirely different is crucial to him today: the best results come from trust.
For him, leadership does not mean giving orders, but rather listening, providing guidance, taking responsibility, and supporting people in their development. Communication, transparency, and mutual trust form the foundation of his daily work. One insight in particular has stayed with him to this day:
“At some point, it just clicked for me: It’s not about power; it’s about people.”
This attitude has been a constant thread throughout his entire career. Many colleagues whom Robert has worked with over the years now hold leadership positions themselves. This is an achievement of which he is particularly proud.
His advice for future generations
If Robert could offer one piece of advice to his younger colleagues, it would be surprisingly simple:
Have courage. The courage to take on responsibility. The courage to make mistakes. And the courage to change your location or area of responsibility from time to time. Because for him, one thing is certain: Growth doesn’t happen on its own. It always begins with the willingness to take the first step.
Robert’s journey impressively demonstrates just how diverse a career at the Nagel-Group can be. From apprentice to regional manager, no path was predetermined; what mattered most were curiosity, a willingness to learn, and the determination to take on responsibility. Or, as Robert himself puts it: For those willing to step out of their comfort zone and work with people, many doors are open at the Nagel-Group.