Josef Heer

How long have you been working for Dobas AG?  

I’ve been part of the Dobas family since 2006, which makes me the company’s longest-serving employee.

Where did your professional journey take you prior to your current position?

I worked for different companies in and around Lucerne.

What main tasks does your daily work involve?

I hold all the strings of a project together: from the first customer meeting to the planning, execution and completion, after which I also remedy any issues that come up afterwards. Furthermore, I’m also in charge of internal IT matters.

How do you stay informed and, more importantly, inspired?

I walk through life with open eyes and ears. Inspiration often comes when you least expect it. Sometimes I feel inspired at more obvious places, like a nice shop or a pleasant restaurant; sometimes while surfing the web or having an after-work beer with colleagues. 

What materials make your senses tingle?

Wood – no doubt. I’m fascinated by its diversity time and again.

What is lying around your desk that might seem unnecessary to others but is important to you and your motivation?

On my pinboard there’s a picture of the Jungfraujoch saddle as well as a photo collage I once put together for a friend. The two pictures contain everything I’m interested in – mountains, sports, travelling – and keep me motivated when things aren’t going so smoothly.

What building and/or space has left a particularly lasting impression on you and why?

I have seen many breathtaking buildings during my travels: the Pyramids of Giza, the Taj Mahal or the Colosseum in Rome, just to name a few. Of the structures from the modern era, I am most fascinated by the Burj Khalifa in Dubai. In addition to its beautiful design, I am also fascinated by the fact that it was possible to build the skyscraper in just six years. When you consider that, for example, the Sagrada Família temple has been under construction for over 100 years without any end in sight, it is really admirable.

What fills you with joy and pride in your professional life?

When I find a solution to seemingly insoluble challenges.

What brings you joy in your personal life?

When I put on my touring skis and reach a summit early in the morning, then ski down to the valley in powder snow and enjoy a warm cup of Kaffee Zwätschge.