Today, Hanne works as a Procurement Manager, but she first joined Sperre in 2014 as an apprentice in logistics. She spent two years in the warehouse, learning quickly in a hands-on environment that suited her well.

– I’m a learn-by-doing kind of person. Those two years in the warehouse gave me practical experience I still rely on today, Hanne says.

In 2016, she completed her trade certificate. She had always imagined that she would end up in an office-based role and hadn’t expected to enjoy warehouse work as much as she did.

– I had a great time there. Looking back, I wouldn’t trade those years for anything. The practical experience has turned out to be incredibly valuable, she says.

Choosing a different path

However, after several years at Sperre, Hanne felt the need to explore something completely different. She wanted to challenge herself and try a completely new direction, one that involved working more closely with people.

She moved to Kongsberg to pursue a bachelor’s degree in optometry and later worked for two years as an optometrist in Molde.

– It was important for me to try something new. I learned a lot, both professionally and about myself, she says.

Over time, she began to feel that something was missing.

Finding her way back

In 2021, Hanne moved back to Ålesund and began studying Shipping Management while working part-time as an optometrist. Around that time, she heard that Sperre might be looking for a purchasing assistant.

She joined on a part-time basis in 2022, combining work with her studies – a decision that quickly felt right.

– Being able to connect my studies directly to the job made a big difference. The subjects sparked something in me, and I realised this was a field I wanted to explore further.

After completing her degree in 2024, she transitioned into a permanent position. Her earlier experience in the warehouse soon proved to be a real strength.

– Having worked hands-on with the products I now deal with gives me a solid understanding of the entire value chain. I see every day how that practical background supports me in my role, she adds.

Growing with responsibility

Since returning to Sperre, Hanne’s role has gradually evolved. She started with assistant-level tasks – following up orders, confirming deliveries and handling routine purchasing processes.

– My managers have trusted me with more complex tasks while continuing to challenge me to grow.

With increased responsibility comes pressure, but also development.

– It can feel intense at times, but I remind myself that someone believed I could handle it. That’s motivating, she says.

Today, she feels more independent and confident in her role, supported by colleagues who openly share knowledge across departments.

– Something special about Sperre is that there’s always someone willing to help. Whatever question you have, someone either has the answer or will help you find it. You never feel left alone.

A culture that supports growth

For Hanne, the collaborative environment is one of Sperre’s strongest qualities.

– There’s a good atmosphere in the corridors. People show genuine interest in each other, both professionally and personally. We work as one team towards the same goal.

Looking back, Hanne is proud of having dared to change direction when she felt it was necessary.

– You often think that once you choose a career path, that’s it. But it’s okay to change your mind. It’s important to listen to yourself, she says.