Commuting has long since become a habit for him. Born in Bavaria, he has been moving between Vorarlberg, Switzerland and Liechtenstein for almost 18 years. Stefan Fitzel has been working at Oerlikon Balzers for nine years, currently in the role of "Head of Finance Europe", and drives the approximately 65-kilometer route from Lochau in Austria to Balzers in Liechtenstein by car. "One advantage is the good connection to the highway: the tunnel, which was built around ten years ago, has significantly improved the situation and relieved traffic at this junction. Nevertheless, I have the feeling that more and more people are commuting, which has had an increasing impact on traffic in recent years," he explains. Whether it's the outward or return journey - for him, commuting is a natural part of everyday life. "I use the journey to start or end the working day. With every kilometer I can sort out my thoughts, make plans for the day or clear my head - for what matters at home."

From Bavaria to Liechtenstein and the financial world of Oerlikon

Born in Augsburg, he came to Vorarlberg via Vienna. "The mentality here is a bit more relaxed and cheerful than what I know from my home country. Here, people are a bit more confident to show joy and enjoy life," he describes. Together with his team of around 30 people, he is responsible for the financial accounting of the company's European companies. "The international focus of Oerlikon combined with the rural tranquillity of Liechtenstein creates an ideal environment for me." He has always been fascinated by global perspectives. "In my professional career, I have always chosen companies that operate internationally. The exchange with people from different countries and cultures is incredibly enriching for me." Liechtenstein is home to many of these global players, making it a particularly attractive business location. Oerlikon is active worldwide - this enables me to exchange ideas across national borders on a daily basis. "Communicating in English is part of the job - I really appreciate that. I have a very interesting job that challenges me, but also makes me happy. It is this combination of challenge and fulfilling work that gives me pleasure in my work."

New challenges instead of routine

"Yin and yang beat in my heart," says Stefan Fitzel and laughs. "On the one hand, I sometimes wish for a quiet phase - but when it comes, I can hardly stand it. I've learned a lot about myself over the years. Today I know that routine is not good for me. After big projects, it's pleasant for a short time when everything is a bit calmer - but as soon as it lasts longer, I become dissatisfied and start to question myself. Instead of recharging my batteries, I slow myself down. Then I have to get out, I need something new."

One thing is clear to him: he needs movement, development and new impetus. "I really appreciate challenges. And there are plenty of them at Oerlikon. The company is constantly changing - whether due to market requirements or internal structural transformations. Every change brings new tasks with it. If you are open to this, there are many opportunities to actively help shape your work. Good performance is rewarded - be it through new development opportunities or additional responsibilities. But you have to be the right type. You have to like this dynamic."

How corona changed commuting

The daily commute has changed significantly for Stefan Fitzel in recent years - mainly due to the coronavirus pandemic. "I used to drive to the office every day. Working from home wasn't an issue for us. It wasn't until the pandemic that new working models came into play - and with them a degree of flexibility. At Oerlikon, we now offer the option of working from home on certain days. This is a real added value for me. Not only because it makes the daily commute easier, but above all because it makes family life easier. My wife works part-time and we have three children - there's always something going on. The home office days really help us to organize our everyday lives better. It's easier to divide responsibilities between both parents - and that's a good thing. Nevertheless, I can't imagine life without commuting. I can finish the day in the car, sort out my thoughts, listen to music, talk to friends on the phone, listen to the news or a podcast. It helps me to flip the switch - from work to family life." One issue that is particularly close to Stefan Fitzel's heart is public transport in his commuting region. "I'd like to take the train more often - that would actually be ideal. But at the moment there is no continuous connection between Bregenz and Balzers. It's a shame that there is no direct train connection. I take much longer on public transport than by car, which is unfortunately impractical in everyday life. I see great potential here: if there was a better connection, I - and I'm sure many others - would use it immediately. It would be an important step towards making commuting more sustainable and at the same time more relaxed."

Liechtenstein as an attractive place to work and live

"Liechtenstein is an extremely attractive place to live and work for me," he says. "I like the relaxed atmosphere, the 'you' culture and the good work-life balance that Oerlikon offers its employees - many of my colleagues also commute, which creates a sense of community and openness." In addition to his job, he spends most of his time with his family. "Our children are between ten and twelve years old - my leisure activities are often based on their hobbies, which I like to be involved in. My wife and I love traveling and we are now trying to get our children interested in it too. They now really enjoy getting to know new cities, countries and cultures - like on a recent trip to Indonesia. That was a very valuable experience for us as a family. I also enjoy sports: I like skiing in winter and jogging or cycling in summer. I really appreciate the high quality of life in the region - both professionally and privately.

Photo: ©Liechtenstein Business | Abderhalden