Alaa Saeed about working internationally for NIRA

"Working abroad has been incredibly rewarding, both professionally and personally. Experiencing different cultures and learning firsthand from our clients and colleagues is something I’m deeply grateful for." 

- Alaa Saeed, Systems Engineer 

I joined NIRA 3.5 years ago as a Systems Engineer focused on integration within our Asia team. Growing up in Linköping and earning a Master’s in Mechanical Engineering with a specialization in Electrical Engineering, I was drawn to NIRA after hearing inspiring lectures from former students that now work at NIRA. Though I initially lacked programming experience, I worked at another company to build those skills. When the right position opened at NIRA, I got the opportunity to join the team. 

China has become one of NIRA’s largest markets, and my first major assignment abroad was to support our local team in Shanghai. I had always wanted to work internationally, so when the opportunity arose, I eagerly accepted. I first went for three months in the summer of 2023 and returned in 2024 for a six-month assignment. Being onsite in China, working with engineers in the test workshop, and joining client meetings with the engineering teams or the sales team gave me a broader understanding of our products and deepened my technical expertise. 

Currently, I’m based in Japan for a two-month project, where I support both our Chinese and Japanese colleagues. This role has given me the chance to provide technical expertise and help streamline our processes globally and to improve our efficiency and service in Asia. 

Why I Chose NIRA 

What initially drew me to NIRA was the company’s innovative approach and its commitment to technical excellence. We’re a company with a global impact, where every individual’s expertise is valued. NIRA has a strong culture of collaboration, and there’s a genuine openness that makes it easy to grow professionally. I’ve had the opportunity to try new responsibilities, and it’s a place where help is always just around the corner, thanks to the strong sense of community. 

Working Across Cultures 

One of the things I appreciate most about working at NIRA is the balance of support and independence. At NIRA, we have a flat structure where everyone’s ideas are valued, which contrasts with the more hierarchical work culture in China. My colleagues in China looked up to us from Sweden, so we made an effort to build those connections as equals. The pace in China is also much faster; the goal there is to be first to the market, which creates a high-pressure environment. While challenging, it’s rewarding to find ways to balance this speed with the quality and reliability our customers expect. 

Opportunities for Growth 

NIRA has been instrumental in expanding my technical skills and system knowledge. From troubleshooting to hands-on support and analyzing test data, my time at NIRA has allowed me to build a broad and deep understanding of our products from both a technical and customer perspective. My international experiences in China and Japan have accelerated my development, giving me new insights and opportunities that I wouldn’t have gained otherwise. 

Looking forward, I’m excited about the potential to continue my journey at NIRA. I’m considering a return to Shanghai after my time in Japan as a technical expert, but I’m open to new challenges, whether that’s in Asia or back in Sweden. One thing is certain - NIRA has become my professional home, and I’m looking forward to grow with the company for years to come.