In a field traditionally dominated by men, Kristi Natalia Kusbianto breaks the stereotype. As a Mechanical Supervisor, her role ensures the smooth operation of mechanical systems and equipment while upholding high standards of safety, quality, and efficiency.
But what brought her to this role, managing a diverse team of both men and women, ranging from rookies to seasoned experts?
It began in 2017 when Kristi joined as a Trainee at APRIL Learning Institute (ALI). It is a training and development center, aiming to align employee proficiency with company needs. Following dedicated training, in 2019, Kristi earned a position in APR as an Operator in the Precision Room. Not stopping there, she expressed a desire to explore her skills further. “I wanted to truly challenge myself,” she recalls.
Her passion for growth did not go unnoticed by the company. In 2021, she was promoted to the role of Mechanical Supervisor. Now, she stands as the heart and soul of her team, with her unique leadership style at the core of her success.
Leadership Style: The Wisdom of Listening
More than a boss, Kristi is a hands-on leader. She has learned from the best: her mother. “My mom taught me to be a woman with a soft heart, but also resolute when needed.”
Armed with that wisdom, Kristi adeptly tackles the challenges that come with her role, from boosting production to mastering the intricacies of machinery and doing fieldwork for the majority of her days. It’s exactly this hands-on involvement alongside her team that garners respect and trust.
Yet, what truly sets Kristi apart is her ability to listen to her team. From workplace problems to personal struggles, Kristi listens with genuine care and a dash of humor. “When I’m all ears, I can show my team how much I care,” she explains.
This open-door policy creates a culture of support that goes both ways. By listening, Kristi can understand her team better to lead them towards greater heights. In turn, her team knows how to assist Kristi better to meet their collective goals.
Championing the Team’s Growth
In the workplace’s hustle and bustle, Kristi does not forget continuous improvement. Since joining as a Trainee, she views ALI as a hub for personal and professional growth, providing individual development plans tailored to each role. She credits the Institute for boosting her confidence and progress, saying, “It’s my favorite place, and I’ve experienced its benefits firsthand.”
Committed to extending these opportunities, Kristi actively works to enhance her team’s skills and assist them in securing company scholarships. She closes our conversation with a simple yet profound message: “My focus is to listen to my team’s needs and help them shine brighter. Because without them, there’s no me.”
APR2030: Advancing Gender Equality
Kristi’s leadership journey conveys a powerful message: gender is no barrier to success in APR. She serves as an inspiration and representation for women across all levels of the organization.
Her success is not an exception but a reflection of our APR2030 commitments to gender equality across our value chain. From equal pay to equal opportunities for advancement, APR ensures that women are valued and respected. Regardless of gender, everyone in APR is encouraged to pursue their ambitions in their chosen fields, knowing they have our full support, from technical and soft-skill training to scholarship programs. With Kristi at the helm, a bright future awaits her team and APR as a whole.
Click on the video below to watch and get inspired by Kristi’s journey in action:
