The Heartbeat of Mercedes-Benz.io: Celebrating Achievements with the R&A – The Tribe Angel Award Winners

At Mercedes-Benz.io, the essence of innovation is not just found in the technology we create but in the people who drive our success.

In the words of Débora Vicente, one of the drivers for our Recognition & Appreciation Program:

As an MB.ioneer, I've had the privilege of participating in the R&A Awards — a unique platform designed not only to recognize the outstanding contributions of our colleagues but also to strengthen the bonds that tie our vibrant community together.

In a world where the pace of work can often overshadow individual achievements, the R&A Awards stand as a beacon of appreciation and acknowledgment. It's a cherished opportunity, from peers to management, to pause and celebrate the collective and individual resilience, achievements, and challenges over the year.

And our awards reflect just that. We counted with Individual and Team Awards and all of them reflecting our Values and our Mission.

For the Individual Awards, we had:

• Collaboration Award: The people nominated for this category truly embody empathy towards others, and communication and collaboration that welcomes different points of view;
• Excellence Award: The nominees for this award embrace the unknown, focus on learning, growing and enabling others by sharing their feedback and quickly adapting to changes;
• Impact Award: The contagious energy of these nominees inspires us to roll up our sleeves and make it happen! To take ownership, be resilient and adapt, to strive for the best outcome within the right timeline;
• Tribe Angel Award: The nominated MB.ioneers who are recognised for their empathy, openness and courage. They dedicate a lot of their time into creating, maintaining and fostering a tribe community and sense of belonging. They are our glue!

As for the Team Awards, we considered:

• Customer-centric Award: It's all about the team you see as a reference in customer focus, deriving their decisions based on data, and going above and beyond to come up with solutions for the challenges that lie ahead.
• Enabler Award: Which is given to the team that keeps on pushing forward and motivating us to change the world. They may not always be in the spotlight, but their support and hard work enable others to shine.

But what truly sets this experience apart is its impact in the tribe. Witnessing the joy and celebration at last year's PitStop was a powerful reminder of the significance of these moments. It underscores our commitment to not only driving technological advancement but also nurturing the human connections that make our journey meaningful.

And nothing better to showcase all of this than having our two Tribe Angel Award winners sharing their own experience:

Stefan Reith

Winning the Tribe Angel Award was absolutely one of the highlights in my professional life. Learning that I am at the top 4, having a head-to-head race with João Peres, walking on stage, getting a hug from Nikolaus Kober on the way (who opened me the doors of Mercedes-Benz.io over 6 years ago), stuttering a speech, getting applause by the whole room. What a ride!

I was a bit afraid I could be perceived as annoying, as I constantly involve myself in topics that are "none-of-my-business" but getting so many votes from all locations confirmed that my efforts & feedback are appreciated. So, I will just continue with what I am doing next year and maybe even step up my game.

Thanks for the award and a company that encourages everyone to get involved if they find something to improve. For me as a person who hates to complain and is incredibly impatient, that is a gold mine.

João Peres

For me being appreciated and valued by Mercedes-Benz.io is of utmost importance because it means that my colleagues acknowledge my commitment and dedication.
For my team I believe that it also validates how purposeful and relevant our work is.

It was a very emotional moment for me, one of absolute satisfaction.
Jumping into the stage in these conditions was a bit embarrassing but I felt honoured and appreciated by the Tribe. I also felt and still feel grateful for this recognition, which unquestionably reinforces my Mercedes-Benz.io identity.