Working at Kiwa: Kristiine Kikas
Kristiine joined Kiwa in 2005. She began her career as a Quality Specialist/Assistant and later transitioned to a Quality Specialist role. In 2014, she was promoted to her current position as Quality Manager. Reflecting on her journey, Kristiine says, “Starting as a Quality Specialist and growing into the role of Quality Manager has been incredibly rewarding. The company has evolved, and so have I.”
Kristiine thrives on the diversity and constant challenges her role presents. Each day brings something new, keeping her work engaging and dynamic. “The ever-changing nature of my work ensures that I am always learning and growing,” she shares. Kristiine is particularly passionate about continuous learning and skill development, especially in the areas of quality management and ESG initiatives. She adds, “I love that no two days are the same. It keeps me motivated and ensures that I’m always on my toes.”
Projects with Purpose
Over the years, Kristiine has been involved in a number of interesting projects. Recently, she played a key role in organizing Earth Day and is currently focusing on Safety Week. Additionally, she is working on enhancing the company’s website, which involves setting and achieving various goals. One of her most significant recent achievements was successfully completing an integration project related to a company merger. “Each project offers its own set of challenges, but the satisfaction of seeing them through to completion is incredibly fulfilling,” Kristiine says.
Growing with Kiwa
Kristiine’s career at Kiwa has been marked by substantial professional growth. Beginning as a Quality Specialist/Assistant and advancing to Quality Manager, she has benefited immensely from internal training and participation in working groups. These experiences have also enabled her to build connections with colleagues from different countries, further enhancing her professional development. “Kiwa has provided me with countless opportunities to grow and connect with others. It’s been a truly enriching experience,” she reflects.
Building Expertise
Throughout her time at Kiwa, Kristiine has acquired extensive knowledge in ESG and communication. She recently completed EPD training and successfully passed the EPD exam. Kristiine has also learned the importance of seeking help and understanding that it’s okay not to have all the answers. “One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is that you don’t have to know everything. It’s okay to ask for help and rely on your team,” she concludes.