Kristian, when did you realise that it was time to begin a new phase of life, away from the football pitch?

“At the age of 23, I wondered what I would be able to achieve in football going forward. I was realistic enough to realise that a global career was no longer an option. Although I could have continued to play at a solid level, I didn’t want to find myself in my mid-30s with no career prospects. So I started thinking about my post-sport career. It became clear to me that I would keep playing football, but only for fun.”

How did you find the transition from sport to the office?

“To be honest, the transition wasn’t easy. I completed a commercial apprenticeship, but I lacked the practical experience needed for many positions. As a result, I received a lot of rejections. Through Athletes Network, I became aware of the Customer Advisor role in Helvetia’s field service. After several interviews, it was clear to me that it was a good fit. The values, the team and the job won me over.”

What does your day-to-day life look like today and what has changed compared to your footballing days?

“As a football player, my daily routine was determined by my training schedule, so the remainder of my time was more spontaneous. Now, my day is clearly structured. I arrive at the office between 7.30 a.m. and 8.00 a.m., do administrative tasks and have two to three customer appointments a day. In the evening, it’s time for exercise. And yes, my time management is definitely better these days – I’ll gladly admit that.”

Which skills from football are particularly helpful in your professional life today?

“First and foremost, dealing with setbacks. Things don’t always go smoothly in sport or at work, but you can’t let it get you down. I say to myself: try again. This is the only way to improve. Discipline also plays a big role. You don’t feel motivated to the same extent every day and that’s normal. This is exactly where my athlete’s mindset helps me: stick with it, see it through. And the competitive streak. In football, you always want to be in the starting lineup, and at work you always want to achieve your goals. Nevertheless, the team is the most important thing – in football, and now at Helvetia.”

At Helvetia, we are dedicated to our purpose: “being there when it matters.” What does this mean to you personally?

“Often, it’s the little gestures that count. I want to make things as easy as possible for my customers. This also leads to great moments in customer meetings that I will remember for a long time. Some people are reserved at first, especially on the phone. But if you treat them with honesty, respect and empathy, they open up. This is always great for me to see and a sign of real appreciation.”

You’re currently training to be a VBV insurance intermediary. What are your plans?

“Correct. At present, I’m training to be a VBV insurance intermediary with the aim of obtaining an insurance diploma. Helvetia is supporting me in this with internal training. After that, I want to progress internally. From my perspective, it’s a good feeling: I’ve arrived and still have a lot ahead of me at the same time.”