Meet Veronika, Ecologist & Health and Safety Specialist in Lovosice Plant

Tuesday, November 4, 2025

Returning to work after a long break can be daunting, but it can also be a rewarding experience. In this inspiring interview, we speak with Veronika Fialová who shares her journey back to the workplace after taking time off to raise her children. Discover how she navigated the transition, the support she received from the company, and what she finds most fulfilling in her role.

What was your path to the safety team at Mondelēz International? What brought you to this field?

My path to Mondelēz International started straight after graduating from university with an environmental focus. I originally started as an HR Specialist and, after half a year, transitioned to the HSE Specialist position, where they were looking for someone who understood ecology. I'm not a technical safety expert, but I deal with safety every day. I am mainly responsible for preparing safety campaigns and deepening soft skills from a safety perspective.

What was it like returning after your parental leave? What surprised or pleased you?

I was returning to work after having two children and being away for almost 6 years. I was looking forward to it, but I was also afraid of how the new team would receive me. I was pleased to see so many familiar faces here and how kind everyone was to me. I see our factory as one big family, and I’m glad to be a part of it.

What does your typical workday look like today?

I wake up at 4:30 AM, and when I’m not taking the children to school and kindergarten, I drive to work as early as 5:30 AM. I enjoy the quiet time when I can calmly read emails and plan what I want to accomplish that day. Then I dive into work, and I can’t believe how quickly the time flies. In the afternoon, I leave early enough to pick up the children and enjoy time with my family, or to have time to go for a walk.

How did the company support you when you returned to work? What helped you the most?

It was mainly the flexible working hours that allows me to be in the office or stay at home, especially when the children are sick. It is definitely important and crucial for me.

What do you enjoy or find most fulfilling in your work?

What I enjoy most about my position is working with people and being able to dedicate myself to something that fulfills me.

Do you have any advice for colleagues who are returning to work after a longer break?

If you love your work, there's nothing to be afraid of.