Samantha has already made significant strides in her career, balancing her studies in European Union law with her role at Ignitis Renewables. Having emigrated from France to Lithuania just a year ago, she is now working as an Offshore Purchasing and Contracting Associate, a position that places her at the center of various cross-functional teams.

“I’m working closely with the Supply Chain team, the Commercial team, and many different packages,” Samantha explains. “I support tasks related to contracts, procurement, and more.” This role allows her to engage with a wide array of responsibilities, which she loves for its unpredictability. “Each workday is different, and that’s what I appreciate about this job. Some days are hectic, especially during ITT periods when many colleagues need my help, while other days are quieter, allowing me to focus on drafting documents and analyzing commercial data.”

Discovering the world of renewables

Samantha joined Ignitis Renewables with a desire to learn about the renewable energy sector, an area she was curious about but had no prior experience in. “I was really interested in learning how wind turbines are created and commissioned. A couple of months ago, I had no idea about this process, and now I’m immersed in it. It’s the perfect start to my professional career.”

Choosing Ignitis Group was also a strategic decision for Samantha. “Ignitis is a huge company in Lithuania, and it was a great opportunity to learn what it’s like to work in a corporate world, especially when the ultimate goal is to contribute to a project as impactful as this.”

Growth, both professional and personal

Since joining Ignitis Renewables, Samantha has honed several new skills, one of which she never thought she’d master: Excel. “I always thought Excel was reserved for geniuses, but thanks to YouTube tutorials, I learned it and saved myself a lot of time,” she laughs. But beyond technical skills, the role has also enriched her personally. “I’ve had the chance to work with so many international colleagues, and this has helped me improve my English skills and boosted my self-confidence.”

Working at Ignitis Renewables has also offered Samantha a level of freedom she hadn’t experienced in her previous jobs. “I used to work as a cashier during my studies, and now, I’m no longer timed to the second. I feel free to work at my own pace as long as I meet deadlines.”

A culture of acceptance

What Samantha values most at Ignitis is the inclusive and accepting culture. “In France, it can still be hard to find a job if you don’t fit the ‘normal’ corporate mold. But here, I never feel judged for my appearance or my preferences. I can be myself.”

Advice

For those just starting out in their careers, her advice is simple but profound: “Be yourself. Don’t change who you are for any company. You’ll always find someone who will accept you, and that’s when you’ll feel truly successful.