SIGers on the move - meet George Xavier de Assis

Current location: Buffalo, NY, USA
SIG journey: Joined SIG in 2010 as a Field Service Technician in Itapevi-SP, Brazil → Service Specialist in 2020 → Now Resident Technician in the USA

Tell us a bit about your role at SIG and what brought you to your new country.

I started at SIG over a decade ago, and it’s been an incredible learning journey. I became a Service Specialist in 2020 and was always open to expanding my horizons. When the opportunity came up to relocate to the U.S. as a Resident Technician supporting one of our biggest clients, it felt like the right time. The move had been in the works for a while, but the pandemic caused delays — so arriving in 2023 was a dream fulfilled for both my family and me.

What has been the most rewarding part of this international move — both personally and professionally?

Professionally, I’ve grown a lot. Here in the U.S., I was exposed to new filling technologies and advanced training. I’m more involved in problem analysis and resolution, which adds a strategic layer to my role. On a personal level, achieving this dream without having to leave SIG has been incredibly meaningful. It shows that international growth and career continuity can go hand-in-hand.

How did SIG support you through the transition, and what role did our global culture play?

SIG really walks the talk when it comes to global opportunities. Even before the move, I was working on projects with the North America team, so the transition felt natural. The support from my managers and colleagues gave me the confidence I needed. SIG’s culture of mobility, openness, and collaboration helped me adapt quickly and feel part of something bigger.

What advice would you give to a colleague considering a move abroad?

First, don’t keep your ambitions to yourself — talk to your manager. SIG is open to these conversations, and being transparent about your goals is the first step.
Second, prepare! Learn about the language, the culture, and how life works in your new country — it makes all the difference.

And third, make sure it’s a good fit for your family too. Moving abroad isn’t just a job change — it’s a life change. When everyone is aligned, the transition is much smoother.