I was just curious as to how large the automotive industry is in Switzerland? As well, if anyone on this forum is in the industry? Im a Parts Department manager, living in a city where the auto dealerships are HUGE. Im trying to get a grasp as to what my chances will be like landing a job around Geneva.
Typically in the automotive world, the parts department has the highest employee retention rate. Sometimes the only way in is when the current parts manager retires (after working there for 25 or more years!) or when someone gets fired (in Canada this is the case anyways).
From what I understand it’s small apart from Sauber and MOWAG I can’t think of any others. If you are in the Parts distribution dept, why not look outside the automotive industry, or do you want to stay there specifically?
I do not work for the Automotive industry, but I do work for the Airline industry near the Basel Airport. I know of individuals who did work for various Auto companies in the U.K. and now working in Basel for Airline companies. Maybe you could go this direction? Parts for Airplanes instead of for Cars (if you are searching for jobs)?
I should have been a bit more specific about what I do. I work in a dealership type environment. I maintain stock levels of parts needed by the shop to complete repairs, as well to walk in retail customers, and call in mechanical shops and bodyshops. I give the mechanics what they need to do their job.
I have some French, but definatly not fluent, nor strong. I will be taking a French immersion class before looking for work.
My apologies, trying to multi-quote from an iPhone can be hell!
Actually, I have been trying to get into the airline industry for 2 years now. They have parts departments that require the same skillset that I have for my proffesion. I have poked around for job postings on Geneva-Cointrins website.
My only doubts are that an airport would be less likely to hire a foreiner (Canadian) to work for them. Maybe for security reasons? That could be just in my head however.
Bingo! Caterpillar has their international job placement office 5 minutes from my condo here in town! Thanks! (my dad has always wanted me to work for Cat)