Kitron’s culture is built on fostering growth, learning, and leadership. With a strong commitment to both personal and professional development, we empower our employees to explore opportunities and create fulfilling, global careers.
In this interview, we hear from those who have embraced these opportunities with enthusiasm and open minds. Fourteen years ago, Žygimantas Dirsė, VP Asia at Kitron Group, and Vilma Dirsienė, Project Manager, made the bold decision to leave their hometown in Lithuania. This took them from humble beginnings to thriving careers and adventurous family life in China and Malaysia. Here’s what they have learned along the way.
How did your journey with Kitron begin?
Žygimantas: We joined Kitron in 2003, already as a family. I started as an Incoming Inspection trainee in the warehouse. Over the years, I seized every opportunity and worked in various roles. In 2007, I was promoted to Head of the Technical Department. Although I was still young and faced challenges early on, the experience taught me valuable leadership skills and helped me earn the respect of more experienced colleagues.
Vilma: I started my career at Kitron as a warehouse trainee. Next year, I got a chance to move to the Technical Department and later to the Quality Department. Lastly, I took the opportunity and moved to the Production Department, where I worked as a Project Manager and was responsible for the efficiency of project management right until we left for China.
.jpg)
Can you share when and how you decided to move to China?
Vilma: In 2010, Kitron announced plans to open a new factory in Ningbo, China. I heard this from a colleague who always dreamed of leaving the country. All open positions in China did not suit me, so I had no plans or dreams to go there. At that time, I was very happy with my job in Lithuania, so it felt like a difficult decision, especially for me, as I'd have to give up my job in Kitron.
Žygimantas: During the company's rapid growth in Lithuania, we acquired another business to address capacity challenges. However, an efficiency program improved operations so significantly that we no longer needed the new factory and sold it. This experience taught me that change isn't something to fear – it drives progress and strengthens. This mindset likely drove my decision to apply for the role in China.
How has your career evolved since moving to China?
Žygimantas: In 2011, when the opportunity to become Managing Director of Kitron Ningbo came up, I didn't hesitate. It reminded me of when I first began managing a Technical Department – facing uncertainty and new challenges. Finally, as part of Kitron’s strategic plans to expand in Asia and following the acquisition of BB Electronics, Kitron decided to establish a regional structure. I was offered the role of VP Asia, and with my experience in China and understanding of the market dynamics, this opportunity felt like a natural progression. I was honoured to take on this responsibility. The most rewarding aspect of my work has been the freedom to create, innovate and continuously learn. Though the responsibility is immense, the possibilities are limitless.
Vilma: Kitron China team, working with a medical customer I had supported in Lithuania, was looking for someone to take on responsibility for quality control. Given my experience with this customer, I was offered a job. That’s how I found my way back to a job I truly enjoy. Everything fell into place perfectly.
What was your first impression when you arrived in China?
Vilma: When we first arrived, it was 30°C, rainy, and felt like stepping into a sauna. The streets were full of life, with sights and sounds I hadn't experienced before. Insects moved around, and though I was not used to them, the locals seemed unfazed. I appreciated the cultural experience, but I found myself counting the minutes until we could return to the hotel. You wouldn't recognize the place today – 14 years later, the country has transformed completely. Everything is modern and new. When I return to Lithuania, I can't help but notice how incredibly slow and peaceful life feels here.
Žygimantas: Everything was completely different, and we were totally unprepared – even for the weather! Our journey began with mistakes as we tried to teach everyone and change things since nothing matched our previous experiences or perceptions.
What was the new Kitron facility like at that time? And how did it change over time?
Žygimantas: When we first visited China to see the factory, there were just a few pieces of furniture in the office, a few employees, and concrete in the production area. The first year was quite challenging as we adapted to the local culture while building the factory to meet customer needs. We experienced no growth in the first year, but everything changed with the start of serial production. Over the years, we began adding new customers, acquiring new equipment, and hiring more employees, which expanded our competencies. By 2019, the factory had doubled in size to 8,000 square meters, transforming us into a high-performing company with 160 motivated employees.
.jpg)
What does it mean to you to have the unique opportunity to change your life by building a career in a foreign country?
Žygimantas: It means a lot to me. In China, I underwent significant personal growth; I became stronger and more resilient. Living there expanded my knowledge and understanding of a different culture, broadening my perspective and reshaping my thinking. China is and will always be a huge part of my life, filled with many cherished memories, lovely family expansion and the challenges I overcame.
Vilma: The most precious things in life are those that no amount of money can buy: meaningful international connections, an expanded worldview, friendships, and the experiences of travelling and immersing myself in different cultures. I cherish the fact that my nine-year-old is fluent in Lithuanian, Chinese, and English, growing up in a multicultural environment that fosters an open mindset. Additionally, I have a fascinating job that allows me to engage with various cultures daily.
Note: Kitron adheres to strict guidelines to avoid conflicts of interest, including ensuring that no employee reports directly to a family member. Vilma Dirsienė has always reported directly to the Chief Operational Officer of Kitron Group.
.png)
