As the new Head of Industry/Process, Thomas Reichert brings his expertise to large-scale electrical planning projects. On the Swiss market, he and his team are responsible for coordinating with contractors, with a focus on implementing solutions in the field of renewable energies, particularly solar installations. In the international arena, he works closely with Bühler. Thomas Reichert and his team plan the electrical installations and supervise the work on site. In a joint discussion, Thomas Reichert explains: “Our expertise goes far beyond process cabling; we offer complete electrical planning that extends from the grid connection deep into the plant. Within the plant, we take care of aspects such as lighting, access control and security systems – we see ourselves as an integral partner. The aim is to offer our customers an all-in-one package so that they receive all services from a single source.”
To get to know Thomas Reichert, we asked him six questions about his goals for the Electrical Planning division, his perspective on future developments and his sources of motivation, among other things.
What are the goals and visions for the electrical planning sector in the coming years?
TR: Over the next few years, the electrical planning division aims to remain innovative in its core expertise and focus more on renewable energies. The aim is not only to plan electrical installations, but also to offer holistic energy concepts that make customers fit for the future. As an integrative partner, the focus is on high-quality, market-attractive and efficiently implemented solutions in order to build sustainable customer relationships.
What do you think the future holds for electrical planning?
TR: The future of electrical planning will be shaped by Building Information Modeling (BIM) and Artificial Intelligence (AI), among other things. BIM is also increasingly supporting the promotion of sustainability, while AI processes will contribute to the development of new planning methods and increased efficiency. Digital building models expand cooperation with companies such as Bühler by combining physical and digital processes.
What significance does intercultural competence have for you and your team?
TR: Intercultural competence is very important to us, especially as Bühler + Scherler has subsidiaries in South America, India and North America. We are a highly networked company operating internationally. The ability to understand cultural differences in the context of trade and negotiations and to communicate appropriately with customers from different cultures is crucial. It’s not just about delivering technical solutions, but also optimizing communication and collaboration with service providers, contractors and an extensive network of site supervisors. We can continuously learn from intercultural exchange and create synergies, and we have already successfully disproved the prejudice that Swiss companies are fundamentally too expensive.
How would you describe Bühler + Scherler’s corporate culture and how does it contribute to our success?
TR: Bühler + Scherler’s corporate culture is characterized by the dynamism of an SME combined with the strength of a large corporation behind it – the best of both worlds. We are practice-oriented “doers” and “technicians with a passion” who aim to produce high-quality work and implement successful projects. This culture has contributed to our success for over 40 years. Despite changes in the market, the culture accepts challenges with great motivation and shows a willingness to continuously reinvent itself.
What gives you energy and motivation?
TR: My energy and motivation come from professional challenges with an international flair and the interplay between Swiss quality, innovative strength and global markets. In addition, my family with two children brings joy and drive to my life. Regular sport helps me to maintain my basic fitness and supports my performance.
Finally, can you tell us more about your training and your professional career?
TR: My academic background is based on a degree in electrical engineering, after which I gained experience in electronics development. I then moved to Bühler, where I worked on automation, software development and the digitalization of grain mills. Through an internal development program, I moved into electrical planning and joined the management team at Bühler + Scherler. Having completed an Executive MBA, I now feel fully equipped for my role and am keen not only to continue the work I have done so far, but also to develop the company further and lead it successfully into the future together with my team.
