David Kornberg, Product Manager: "We Are a Strong Team"

Production Supervisor – A role with broad responsibilities
The role of a production supervisor is equally about leadership and overarching technical understanding.
“You need to have a big-picture perspective to make quick decisions in daily operations. It’s important to stay one step ahead and have a long-term plan in place so you’re prepared for unexpected deviations or disruptions", says David Kornberg.

At Vallviks Bruk, there are a total of six production supervisors, one per shift team. They work independently but closely together.
“I never feel alone. We production supervisors support and help each other. Plus, there are always colleagues to turn to, from the production manager to mechanics and electricians.”

From Apprentice to Leader – David’s journey
David began his career as an apprentice at Vallviks Bruk in 2016 and has since worked as an operator in both the chip processing and mixing departments. After taking a break for studies, he wanted to continue developing, and with the company’s support, he advanced to the role of production supervisor.

“I like being able to make an impact and a difference—I don’t just want to ‘go along for the ride.’ My driving force is coaching the operators on my shift—giving them the best possible conditions to use their skills, develop, and enjoy their work. But without micromanaging. The operators are the experts in their areas. My job is to make sure they have what they need!”

Leadership in practice – key qualities
As a production supervisor, you must be able to handle multiple tasks simultaneously and make decisions under pressure. The mill operates 24/7, requiring calm and clear priorities.

“For me, the most important thing is to be a receptive, confident, clear, and unpretentious leader who trusts the team. Having that confidence comes from knowing I have a strong group of operators. But everyone makes mistakes. No one is perfect in an operation that never stops,” says David.

Over the past 10–15 years, leadership has generally become more people-focused— even in the industrial sector. Today, it’s not just about production numbers and efficiency but also about workplace well-being. Coming from the hockey world, David views his colleagues as a team.

“You’re only as strong as your weakest link—everyone has to be included! But as a profit-driven company, we also aim to maximize production while minimizing costs, environmental impact, and prioritizing safety. So, part of my role is also to challenge the team. We need to keep developing and not settle.”

Why Vallviks Bruk is a great place to work
What makes Vallviks Bruk an attractive workplace? David highlights the sense of community, short decision-making processes, and the freedom to influence change.
“I’d say it’s because we are a relatively small mill, with around 200 employees. Decisions are made quickly, we have the freedom to implement changes, and we have the capacity to execute them,” says David.

He also points out the pride in the fact that Vallviks’ Robur Flash pulp is the best in the world in several areas.

“We produce market-leading pulp for liquid and air filters, primarily in the automotive industry—and for coffee filters. The same goes for our E-pulp, which is used as insulation material in electrical products such as underwater cables and transformers. Our pulp is the purest on the global market and is completely non-conductive.”

David also mentions generous wellness benefits, an on-site gym, a departmental welfare budget, reduced working hours, and the fact that all employees share in the company’s profits.
“When the company does well, we all benefit. We have a profit-sharing foundation that serves as a long-term savings plan,” he explains.

When do you feel at your best at work?
“I feel best when I know I’ve made the right decisions and everything falls into place. And when we feel like a big family where everyone is important. We respect each other’s differences and always strive to act professionally,” concludes David Kornberg.