I’m Alexandru Al Shehari, Romanian-born, UK-based, and completely obsessed with robotics and emerging tech. As Schneider Electric’s Motion Control & Robotics Offer Manager for UK & Ireland, I spend my days shaping automation strategies and my evenings exploring new corners of Britain. My Google Maps? Over 1,500 saved locations and counting! Let’s just say I’m never short of travel recommendations if anyone needs them.
The Plot Twist: From Code to Cobots
Seven years ago, I joined Schneider Electric’s EcoStruxure Academy program in Romania. Coming from software development (business analysis and backend programming), I thought I’d found my path promoting EcoStruxure software across Southeast Europe.
Then came the conversation that changed everything.
“What’s your next career move?” I was asked. My answer was immediate: “I’m ready for an international challenge.” One interview later, I was packing my bags for the UK.
The Great British Challenge
Why did I do it? Professionally, I was craving new markets and customer dynamics. Personally, I wanted to escape my comfort zone and feed my travel obsession.
The reality check? Different processes, tools, organizational structures—and a completely new market to decode. But here’s where Schneider Electric’s culture truly shines: my colleagues became mentors, challenges became opportunities, and adaptation became second nature.
My strategy was simple: listen first, strategize second. I spent months interviewing partners, end-users and sales teams to understand how Schneider Electric was perceived in the UK market. That customer-centric approach? It’s now the foundation of everything I do in robotics.
From Software Strategist to Robotics Revolutionary
Today, I develop go-to-market strategies for robotics, motion control, and HVAC controllers across UK&I. My mission? Position Schneider Electric as the robotics leader in an emerging market.
My proudest moment so far? Launching a Cobot bundle campaign that’s teaching me about market shifts and complex automation architectures. It’s still running and I’m genuinely excited to use these insights for future campaigns.
What drives me every morning? The opportunity to shape an entire market strategy while learning something completely new every single day.
The Schneider Electric Effect
I genuinely couldn’t have done this without my mentors and the incredible people who supported me throughout this journey. Schneider Electric’s commitment to international mobility isn’t just corporate policy, it’s personal support, career investment and genuine belief that global perspectives drive innovation.
My advice for anyone considering a similar move? “Just do it!”
It’s worth every challenge, every awkward moment learning that ‘quite good’ actually means excellent and every ‘aha!’ moment when something finally clicked. You’ll discover capabilities you didn’t know you had, build relationships across continents and contribute to innovations with global impact. Plus, your travel map will never look the same.
The Journey Continues
I hope my story proves you that the best career moves often start with a simple conversation and the courage to say “yes” to the unknown.
Next stop on my ever-growing travel list? Probably somewhere with fascinating local history and an even better automation story to tell. Trust me, the view from outside your comfort zone is absolutely worth it.
Ready for your own international adventure? check all the opportunities waiting for you at Schneider Electric!
About the author
Alexandru Al Shehari
Robotics & Motion Control Offer Marketing Manager
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