Sustainability Report 2016 / 2017

Personal Development At Werner & Mertz we want every employee to reach his/her full potential. That’s why we promote a per- sonalized, needs-oriented and strategic development plan. Our approach not only leads to highly satis- fied and motivated individuals but also contributes to the success of the entire company. An employee’s personal training needs are determined in part during the annual performance appraisal. At that time the employee also has the opportunity to give his/her supervisor feedback about his/her work and leader­ ship role. The annual appraisal is an important instrument that managers value for the development of their own competencies. Several different aspects are taken into consideration such as continuous development of specialized skills and knowledge, social and methodological competence and special requirements like IT training and language courses. We support employees who want to continue their education or study while remaining on the job. Werner & Mertz provides full or partial financial support and releases the employee from work to attend classes. Idea Management: Creativity that pays off In addition to the annual appraisal, we give our employees other ways to develop and to show their potential. In Idea Ma- nagement or the Employee Suggestion Program (BVW) every employee can make suggestions on how to optimize or improve work processes, occupational safety, environmental protection or products. A financial accounting unit determines the savings potential. We show our appreciation of employees’ suggestions with a bonus of 20 percent of the total amount an idea saves us in one year. All the ideas submitted during the year are eligible for a prize draw at year’s end. 97 Employees A bright idea on the subject “ Compilation of freight charges ” saves the company about 17,500€ annually. Our Austrian colleague was pleased with the bonus equal to 20 percent of the total saved in one year. The Austrian Managing Director Franz Studener presented Teresa Purkhart with her certificate.