Andras LASZLO from Hungary has been working for EUAM Iraq as Supply Chain Coordination Officer for more than 2 years. He shares his experience of his challenging yet fulfilling work in Baghdad, Iraq.

Briefly describe your career and tell us why you applied for a position with EUAM Iraq?

Before joining the Mission, I worked in various logistics positions for 25 years, of which 15 years with the Hungarian Defence Forces, and the last 10 years at multinational companies and international organisations in Hungary and abroad, such as in Poland, Iraq, Afghanistan, Cyprus and Western Sahara. Now, I am passionate about contributing to international peace and development, and I am particularly drawn to the mission of EUAM Iraq. My background in logistics, procurement and supply chain has equipped me with the skills and experience necessary to support and enhance EUAM Iraq’s efforts. I am eager to work on initiatives that promote stability, governance, and economic development in the region. The opportunity to be part of a team that makes a tangible difference in such a crucial area aligns perfectly with my professional goals and personal values.

Could you tell us about your daily work?

The Supply Chain Coordination Officer plays an important role in ensuring that the Mission’s logistical needs are met efficiently and effectively, thereby supporting the broader goals of the EUAM Iraq. Since my arrival, I have been involved in a number of tasks that ensure the smooth daily operation of EUAM Iraq and its strategic activities. My role is to maintain accurate records of all supply chain activities, including vendor database, market research, procurement documents, delivery logs and various reports to ensure that activities comply with EU regulations and mission-specific directives. I work within the Procurement Unit and one of my main tasks is to shortlist potential companies for tenders through market surveys. I would like to encourage domestic and international companies to apply to our vendor database through our website to learn about the EUAM Iraq public procurement tender opportunities.

How do you find working with colleagues from different backgrounds?

I find working with colleagues from diverse backgrounds a highly rewarding experience. The variety of perspectives, experiences, and expertise that individuals from different cultures and professional backgrounds bring to the table can significantly enhance problem-solving and innovation. Overall, I believe that working with colleagues from various backgrounds enriches the workplace and leads to more effective and innovative outcomes. It is about embracing differences, fostering mutual respect, and working collaboratively towards shared goals.

What has been the most rewarding or memorable experience for you in the Mission so far?

Immediately after my arrival, I started working on a project where EUAM Iraq planned to donate hundreds of academic books to Al-Nahrain Center for Strategic Studies, one of its partners. The purpose of the donation was to improve the scientific standards of the Iraqi think-tank. Since that was one of my first projects after my arrival to the Mission, it was a challenge to find potential companies and bookstores that could carry a variety of study books in one or two copies. At the end of the successful tender, the Mission was able to deliver more than 500 different books in Arabic and English.

If you could live anywhere, where would you choose?

I would probably choose a location that offers a balance of natural beauty, cultural richness, and opportunities for personal and professional development, such as the northern part of Lake Balaton in Hungary. For example, a city like Veszprem is famous for its stunning natural surroundings, including hills, forests and the nearby Lake Balaton. Proximity to outdoor activities like hiking, skiing and paddling is a big draw for me. The Balaton region offers also a rich array of cultural experiences, ranging from various festivals, cuisines to art exhibitions.

What is something your colleagues don’t know about you?

I am an active orienteering runner. Orienteering is a sport that combines running with navigation, where you use a map and compass to find your way through various checkpoints in a natural terrain. Orienteering challenges me both physically and mentally. It requires quick decision-making and problem-solving as one navigates through different landscapes, which keeps the experience exciting and engaging.

What is your usual order at a restaurant?  

My usual order in Hungarian restaurants reflects my love for traditional food: gulyás (Goulash), a hearty soup made with beef, paprikás, chicken cooked in a creamy paprika sauce served with dumplings, and, above all, a small glass of pálinka, a traditional Hungarian fruit spirit for good appetite.

How do you relax?

Here in Iraq, I mainly read, walk, or play floorball or frisbee with my colleagues. I usually prefer outdoor activities rather than watching TV series or movies since I already spend a lot of time behind the computer screen.