SIGers on the move: meet Harald Schwaiger
Please introduce yourself and your role at SIG.
Hello, I’m Harald Schwaiger. I've been with SIG for nearly 35 years, starting in Saalfelden in 1990. Throughout my journey, I’ve held various roles in printing across Austria, Germany, Thailand, the USA, the UK, Brazil, China, and India. I was in India, supporting a groundbreaking project—launching SIG’s first gravure printing press using water-based ink, a significant step toward sustainable packaging. After years abroad, I’m excited to have returned since august 2025 where it all began, in Saalfelden.
What’s the most rewarding part of working in a different country?
Experiencing different cultures and ways of working has been incredibly rewarding. In Thailand, I was inspired by the dedication and teamwork of my colleagues, who became like family. In the USA, I embraced innovation, gaining valuable insights into advanced printing technologies. One of my proudest achievements was starting up SIG’s first plant in China, working with an extraordinary team to deliver outstanding results. Now, contributing to sustainability efforts in India continues to enrich my global experience.
How has SIG’s global culture helped you adapt?
SIG’s culture of inclusivity and collaboration makes adapting easy. Whether it was emphasizing quality and structure in Newcastle or thriving in Suzhou’s fast-paced environment, I always felt supported. SIG’s commitment to knowledge sharing allowed me to quickly integrate and learn from diverse teams, making every transition smoother and more enriching.
What’s your top advice for colleagues considering global mobility?
Stay curious and flexible. Each country brings unique perspectives and ways of working—embrace them with respect and openness. Build relationships, actively listen, and appreciate diverse viewpoints. I’ve learned so much from the determination of my team in China, especially as we pioneered high-speed printing at 600m/min. Remember, adaptability is your greatest asset.
What has surprised you the most about living and working abroad?
How quickly deep, genuine connections form, even in unfamiliar places. Thailand became my second home, and I’ve created a wonderful life with my Chinese wife and our daughter, who’s now learning German in preparation for our return to Austria. These personal connections have deeply enriched my global journey.
How has this experience contributed to your personal or professional growth?
Working internationally has transformed me both professionally and personally. I gained comprehensive expertise in global operations and cross-cultural leadership, which strengthened my problem-solving and decision-making skills. Personally, I became more resilient, adaptable, and empathetic, learning to communicate effectively and build inclusive teams wherever I went.
The importance of family on this journey.
Family support has been essential to my success abroad. Moving to new countries means adapting to new environments, schools, and cultures, which isn't always easy. My family’s resilience and positivity have been my foundation, making every move possible and rewarding.
Now, as I return to Saalfelden, where my journey with SIG began, I feel immense gratitude and excitement. It’s a rewarding closure to an incredible chapter and the beginning of a promising new one.