Voices of TBAuctions: The many hats of a people person

Welcome to Voices of TBAuctions, an interview series spotlighting the people behind Europe’s leading multi-brand B2B digital auction platform. Through candid conversations with our leaders and team members, we explore who they are, their experiences, insights, and the passion that drives our success. 

We are excited to highlight Lena Kluth, Senior HR Generalist at Surplex, a brand part of TBAuctions. You can watch the video above or, if you prefer, read the full interview below! 

How would you describe your work at Surplex?

As a senior HR generalist, I am responsible for everything from hiring to terminating employees. After our talent acquisition manager, Alex, begins the hiring or onboarding process, I will take over. We will meet with you and guide you through the employee lifecycle. We are here to support and guide you through any questions or concerns you may have.

What does a typical day in HR look like for you?

My typical day at Surplex is unlike any other. I start thinking about what I’ll be doing throughout the day. But as soon as I open my Outlook calendar or Teams, all of that goes out the window. I have to be mindful of my priorities, as well as side requests and urgent meetings, while also keeping projects with deadlines in mind. They need to be finished on time so that others can continue the work.

What do you enjoy most about working at Surplex?

The people are what I like most about working at Surplex. We have great connections. We laugh a lot and always meet up in the kitchen or somewhere on the floor. People come into our HR office all the time to check in, ask questions, or even ask how we’re doing.

How would you sum up your role in a few words?

In summary, there’s a great saying about HR managers that sums up my role as a Senior HR Generalist. They’re unofficially the peacemakers, psychologists, lawyers, and event planners. I feel that this description fits us here at Surplex because we are the one person who can fill most roles.

What advice would you give to someone new joining Surplex?

For newcomers, I would like to offer one piece of advice. Connect with people because you will most likely depend on the existing knowledge at Surplex to help guide you or even finish your job. Go throughout the office, meet people, and schedule coffee dates. That is my biggest piece of advice for anyone joining us at Surplex, or visiting us from another office. We are always here to help, support, and welcome you.

What do you enjoy the most doing when you’re not working?

Outside of Surplex, I enjoy dancing. I am part of a lyrical jazz dance team. I am regaining my swimming strength and hope to complete two kilometers of freestyle swimming in under an hour again, as I did two years ago. But I still have a long way to go.