How "Neochim" JSC Attracts Young Talents in the Chemical Industry

The fertilizer giant "Neochim" AD is developing a large-scale program to attract young talent in the chemical sector, which covers extensive cooperation with universities and targeted initiatives for career growth. Executive Director Stefan Dimitrov emphasizes the comprehensive approach to filling work positions, which goes beyond traditional compensation.

The company actively communicates with higher education institutions specialized in training chemical engineers. Regular participation in career forums and platforms allows direct presentation of professional opportunities. Diana Dimitrova, Director of Investor Relations, reveals details about the strategy for attracting young specialists.

The main challenges stem from the lack of professional secondary schools in the Haskovo region that would prepare future chemists. An additional problem is students' desire to work in offices in big cities or remotely. Job advertisements in the Labor Bureau and specialized internet platforms are used as alternative recruitment channels.

As a leading employer in the region, "Neochim" AD offers an extremely attractive social package. The average salary ranges between 2800 and 3000 leva, and in more complex production it can reach up to 3500 leva. Social benefits include food vouchers, bonuses, an in-house medical center, and a "Life" insurance.

The onboarding of new employees involves a mandatory adaptation period with mentorship, lasting from one to four months. A mandatory element is the final qualification exam. The company demonstrates exceptional care for professional development by covering the costs of postgraduate education - semester fees and travel expenses.

Stefan Dimitrov highlights a serious problem in modern education - the mismatch between academic training and real industrial needs. For him, the key point is not only financial compensation, but social inclusion and opportunities for full professional realization.

The company's history dates back to November 5, 1951, when it started as a "Chemical Combine" in Dimitrovgrad. Currently, "Neochim" AD is a leading producer of ammonia fertilizers with an impressive annual capacity - 450,000 tons of ammonia, 380,000 tons of nitric acid, and 710,000 tons of ammonium nitrate. The company is the only Bulgarian producer of formaldehyde with an annual capacity of 30,000 tons.

Parallel to corporate efforts, the Ministry of Labor and Social Policy has launched a national program "I Choose Bulgaria", aimed at returning and mobile Bulgarian citizens. Deputy Minister Natalia Efremova presented details about the initiative, which aims to stimulate internal labor migration and the return of young specialists.