Assessing risks and staying alert. In the office and in the mountains

This is what I bring to APG. 

Anda Anton is an IT & Data Risk Manager at APG. Her work includes helping ensure the responsible and controlled use of AI and data management. “What I enjoy most about my work is helping the business units make the most of opportunities and gain a clear understanding of risks. By sharing knowledge, maintaining a coherent approach and working together on practical solutions, we help the business units make sound choices for their own area and for APG as a whole.” In her free time, Anda pursues her passion: mountaineering. 

Falling in love with the mountains 

 After a knee injury, Anda could no longer dance and run as she used to. “Climbing was still possible. I took a mountaineering course and fell in love with it straight away. Since then, I have kept challenging myself in the mountains. What appeals to me is what you learn by taking on new challenges. You discover that you can do more than you think, learn to deal with uncertainty and see new possibilities. I wanted to share that with others too. That is why I founded Alpine Edge. Together with an executive coach and two mountain guides, I develop transformative trips for professionals that bring together adventure, experiential learning and executive coaching. These help people discover more of their potential, learn to deal with setbacks and gain the confidence to take action and choose their own path.” 

In the midst of a transition 

“APG is in the midst of a transition. A lot is changing in its strategy, organisation and structure. For some people, this creates uncertainty. I try to stay open-minded, be curious about what is changing and consider how I can contribute. Particularly at a time like this, I think it is important that we keep talking to one another, look out for each other and understand what we are working towards together.” 

Change is the only constant 

“Change is part of life, both at work and beyond. In my work, for example, I see how AI offers new possibilities but also brings new risks, for instance around data quality, privacy and cybersecurity. This calls for curiosity, flexibility and a willingness to adapt your approach when the situation requires it. 

It is no different in the mountains. Melting glaciers and thawing permafrost change routes and conditions. A route that was suitable yesterday may be different today. That calls for flexibility, the ability to assess what is happening and the courage to adjust your plan when necessary.” 

APG gives me space 

“Freedom is very important to me. Being able to be yourself and having the space to do your work in a way that suits you. I have that space at APG. Climbing and mountaineering take a lot of time and commitment, but they also teach me to be flexible and deal with setbacks and uncertainty. These are skills I use not only in the mountains, but also bring to my work. I love how these two worlds reinforce each other, and I am grateful that I can combine them.”