We are TOWA: Lucja, Product Owner

Hi Lucja, why don't you first tell us who you are, what you do at TOWA, and how you came to TOWA?

Hi! I'm originally from Poland, I work from our Kraków office, and have been a Product Owner at TOWA since April, since the merger with my former employer, Virtua.

For me, it was a big step at the time into an international, dynamic environment that is much larger and more varied than anything I had known before. That was exactly what excited and motivated me to become part of TOWA.

Do you work more from home or in the office?

I'm actually on a hybrid schedule:
Home office: Monday, Wednesday, Friday
Office: Tuesday, Thursday

The office days fit perfectly with my German course, which I'm taking together with Marek and Monika. At the moment, I'm learning furniture and color vocabulary and am bravely making my way through the wonderful world of der/die/das.
My goal: to soon understand conversations in the office easily, without my brain overheating in the process. (laughs)

For me, this mix of focused work at home and collaboration in the office feels ideal.

When did your enthusiasm for product ownership begin, and how did you come to it?

My passion for product ownership developed quite organically. I originally came from product management. Even during my studies and at my first job, I noticed how much the combination of strategy, structure, and collaboration excites me. Whenever I had the chance in projects to take responsibility, organize processes, or bring teams together, I knew: this was exactly my area.

In my previous job, I was often the only person responsible for product and process management. While that gave me a lot of ownership, it also showed me that I need an environment where I can engage with colleagues professionally and continue to develop.

That's exactly what I found at TOWA: for the first time, a real network of Product Owners who share their knowledge, challenge me, and support me. This sparring and the variety of projects have not only confirmed my path into the role, but they have even increased my enthusiasm for it.

What does your typical workday at TOWA look like? 

My workday usually starts early, around 6:30 a.m. That's the quietest time for me to go through emails, boards, and to-dos before the meeting rhythm begins.
In the mornings, I usually have alignment meetings with our teams and clients. Afternoons are then devoted to project meetings, concept work, and the decisions a Product Owner typically makes.

What projects are you currently working on? 

Currently, I manage several projects at once, and that's exactly what I love about my job. Each project has its own character, its own brand world, and very different technical requirements. Here's a brief insight:

• Limberry – eCommerce
  Limberry is a German premium Trachten and dirndl brand, best known for its designer collections and high-quality craftsmanship. I oversee the ongoing development of their online shop, from new features to optimizing the customer experience.

• Austria Info – MACH Transformation
  Österreich Werbung is Austria's national tourism organization and operates some of the most far-reaching tourism platforms in the DACH region. We are working on a DXP setup that efficiently orchestrates content, campaigns, and country pages, targeting international audiences.

• Teufelberger – Product Configuration
  Teufelberger is an international industrial group from Austria, specializing in steel ropes, fiber ropes, and strapping systems. Our focus is on further developing its digital presence and unifying digital touchpoints. A very exciting B2B environment.

• Hexeline – eCommerce

  Hexeline is a Polish premium fashion brand known for its elegant, timeless womenswear. I support the ongoing development of their online store, ensuring a cohesive presentation of collections and an intuitive shopping journey. My focus is on optimizing the user experience and streamlining digital processes to strengthen the brand’s online presence.

• Prewave – Supply Chain Intelligence

  Prewave is an AI-powered platform that enables companies to identify and monitor risks across global supply chains. I work on enhancing their digital communication and presenting complex data and product capabilities in a clear, accessible way. The goal is to improve clarity, build trust, and reinforce Prewave’s position as an innovator in supply-chain risk intelligence.

This variety keeps my everyday life exciting. From fashion and tourism to industrial projects. It is precisely this breadth that ensures I am constantly growing and always learning new things.

How does working at TOWA differ from working for your previous employers? 

The difference is great.

At Virtua, I was the only product manager, which meant a lot of responsibility but less opportunity for sparring. At TOWA, there is a PMO team that shares knowledge, exchanges experiences, and supports one another, and I'm very glad to be part of this team of experts.

Furthermore, the projects at TOWA are larger, more international, and more strategic. I have many more opportunities here to delve into new topics and to purposefully develop my skills.
And of course: the international team. I love working with colleagues from Austria, Germany, Poland, Denmark, and other countries.

What do you like most about your job? 

Clearly: freedom and trust.

I can structure my day so that it makes sense for my projects and clients. If I have a doctor's appointment or something personal comes up, that's absolutely no problem.

I also appreciate the open communication and the direct access to our leadership. If something is important, I can go to them and speak with them at any time.

And of course: the team spirit and our events. The event in Innsbruck this year was an absolute highlight for me. Seeing everyone there in person was a wonderful experience.

Are there any specific challenges in your role with us? 

One of the biggest challenges for me was the switch from my previous position as PM (hour-based) to PO (story-point estimates). So that was a real mindset shift.
I was extremely grateful for the support from the team, who helped me get up to speed with the new system.

Do you feel that working at TOWA has helped you grow and develop? 

100% yes.

I learn something new here every day, whether through projects, colleagues, or the international setting. Finally, I have an environment that both challenges and supports me.
TOWA also actively encourages us to develop skills outside our core role. This freedom means a lot to me.

Which highlight at TOWA has stuck with you the most? 

Two points stand out:

1. The C-level visit to Krakow: During the fusion phase of Virtua x TOWA, a strong sign and a real "we belong together" feeling.

2. The team event in Innsbruck: Great atmosphere, impressive view, and the feeling of being part of an international team that sticks together.

Now, a question for everyone who is thinking about becoming part of TOWA: What advice would you give them? 

Don't be afraid of job descriptions or big titles!

At TOWA, you will truly be welcomed, supported, and encouraged. If you're up for responsibility, variety, international projects, and a team that helps you progress, then you're in the right place!