Blending personal and professional lives can be challenging, but Jonas and Simon showcase how a father-son relationship can thrive in a work setting with professionalism, camaraderie, and a sense of humour.
Son Simon began his career at Kiilto at the young age of 15, taking on various tasks during his school holidays. His initial duties included labeling bottles and cans, but over seven years in the production and warehouse in Svedala, he took on increasing responsibilities. Today, Simon serves as a purchaser at the Malmö office, a role he stepped into in February 2024.
Reflecting on their working relationship, Simon emphasizes the seamless integration of their familial bond into their professional lives. "We both agree that when we are at our workplace, we are like any other colleague," he notes. This perspective has allowed them to navigate the workplace without the complexities that can arise from familial relationships. While dad Jonas provided guidance early on, Simon humorously points out that the tables have turned: "Now it’s reversed roles if you ask me, haha."
Jonas’s own journey at Kiilto (then Svenska Diskbolaget) began 28 years ago at the age of 24. “Fun fact: It was my father who recommended me the job as he had good contact with Svenska Diskbolaget,” Jonas tells. Over the years, Jonas has taken on a variety of roles, from production to sales, and now serves as key account manager. His pride in Simon’s accomplishments is evident, recalling how happy he was when Simon first joined the company. “I was proud when I understood that he does a good job for the production/warehouse team,” he shares.
While they share a workplace, Jonas and Simon maintain a clear boundary between work and family life. “We rarely talk about work in our free time,” Simon says, adding that they prefer to focus on family activities and their shared love of football. This balance allows them to enjoy their time together outside of work without the stresses of their professional environment.
Their time at Kiilto is also filled with fond memories. Jonas recalls a standout moment when the office and warehouse team took a trip to Paris to watch a football match between PSG and Malmö FF. Jonas and Simon both highlight the importance of a good team. “Something that I will take with me for the rest of my life are the nice friendships we created and all the fun years we had together in the production/warehouse team,” Simon tells.