Cary Cao has worked for MAN ES in China for nearly 20 years, for the last two as Team Leader ­Contracts & Project Management Four-Stroke China. In this interview, she talks about her career, what she loves about her job and her personal recipe for success.

MAN People: How long have you been with MAN ES?

Cary Cao: I’ve been with the company for nearly 20 years. After studying law and sociology, I joined MAN ES in Shanghai as Commercial Support in April 2005. Since then, I’ve worked in various areas there and learned an enormous amount. I’ve been in charge of Contracts & Project Management for Four-Stroke in China since April 2022. My team consists of two engineers and four project managers.

What is particularly important in your job?

Apart from the necessary specialist knowledge about our products and solutions, in my view it’s primarily the ability to communicate: as project managers, we always have to stay on top of things, coordinate with all the departments involved, both nationally and internationally, and keep all the parties up to date. We’re also the most important point of contact with our customers from start to finish of Order Management. This intensive, personal communication really suits me and is something I enjoy. I also think I’m pretty good at dealing with people, maybe as a result of studying sociology.

Is it a bit unusual for a woman to be in a role like yours in China?

No. There are quite a lot of women working in my sphere. And I’m also delighted to see that more and more women are being given tremendous opportunities here at MAN ES. In my view, the proportion of women is a very important aspect of diversity and moves our company forward.

What do you love about your job?

Every project is different and no two days are the same. My team and I are constantly faced with new challenges. I love that, as you grow with your tasks! And so far we’ve completed them all successfully, which makes me confident that we’ll be able to overcome all future challenges too. So I think I’ve become increasingly optimistic, resilient and self-assured over the years. That’s also something I’d like to pass on to my team.

Do you have a personal recipe for success?

That ties in with what I’ve just said: I’m always sure that everything will turn out well in the end. So I always approach things positively and with a smile. I’m certain that, with this attitude, I’m much more likely to succeed in what I’ve got in mind and luck will be on my side. This mindset has been a great help to me in my career here at MAN ES and throughout my life.