Patrick Lenhardt – when down-to-earth roots meet global technology

What happens when someone starts their first job with an open mind and an unshakable drive to grow? Step by step, challenge by challenge, achievement by achievement – this is the story of ambition matched with relentless effort.

Patrick Lenhardt grew up in a small rural town surrounded by farmland and cattle, where technology was practically invisible. Living in a place known mainly for steel and mining industries, he initially followed in his father’s footsteps and pursued a degree in mechanical engineering. During his job search, and at the suggestion of a friend, he applied to AT&S in Austria, located just 30 minutes from his home. To his pleasant surprise, he received an offer – and the rest is history. For over two decades, he has remained committed to the company through both prosperous and challenging times. Along the way, he continued to develop himself, completing a Master of Science while working full-time and successfully participating in internal development programs.

Early days and memories with AT&S

Patrick, who has been with AT&S for 20 years, has countless stories to share. With a smile, he recalls a journey he describes as a true rollercoaster.

“I have been lucky to be part of many success stories at AT&S.“

As many know, the two most recent flagship greenfield projects for advanced substrate production are the plants in Chongqing and Kulim. At the same time, I have personally witnessed major strategic changes and challenges, such as the factory closure in Fohnsdorf (Austria) when I joined, the layoffs after the 2008 financial crisis, and maintaining business operations during the COVID pandemic.”

When progress became a turning point

“If I had to pick one particularly memorable moment or highlight of my career, I would point to the early phase of our engagement with AMD in 2022. Imagine having the opportunity to meet AMD’s CEO, Dr. Lisa Su – that is a dream for many. I attended a meeting where Dr. Su was also present. As a CEO, she even apologized for being just a few minutes late. What truly astonished me, however, was the reason she gave – she had just come from a meeting with the former U.S. President Biden. ‘Oh my God!’ was my immediate thought. Dr. Su gave the same priority to the AT&S account team as to the President of the United States! This is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience!”

Leaping into high-velocity growth

Now serving as VP BU Key Account, Patrick is based at the company’s newest advanced substrate production facility in Kulim, Malaysia.

“To be honest, I never consciously planned to enter the electronics industry. However, I must admit that after a short time, I realized that the speed of technological advancement here is unmatched by any other industry. For a tech enthusiast and engineer like me, this is incredibly rewarding and constantly energizing.”

Widening Worldview

Reflecting on his upbringing in a small Austrian village and his current role in a multinational company, Patrick values the opportunity to work in a diverse global environment. He collaborates with colleagues from China, India, and Korea, suppliers from Japan and Germany, and customers from Finland and the United States representing globally renowned brands. These diverse interactions and exposure to fast-evolving technologies have enriched his life and broadened his perspective.

“Coming from modest roots in Austria, I suddenly found myself discussing PCBs for a new mobile phone with Nokia and rear-view cameras with BMW (back then). Isn’t that amazing? And now, I’m working on substrates for AMD. That’s even more mind-blowing.”

“This reminds me of a phrase I once heard from one of my former managers at AT&S: ‘Luck is when opportunity meets preparation.’ I believe this perfectly summarizes my career so far.”

Patrick has been given many exciting opportunities at AT&S. He has managed R&D projects at both national and European levels, led new technology implementations, and helped onboard key customers for greenfield projects. He has never shied away from opportunities and always approaches them with confidence and preparation.

Work-life balance in a leadership role

As the saying goes, behind every successful man, there is a strong partner. For Patrick, his wife and children are the pillars of his life.

“Huge credit goes to my wife – without her support, many things would not have been possible. As for my kids, I believe they understand that it’s not about the number of hours we spend together, but the quality of that time. We always plan activities for weekends or holidays. I feel extremely fortunate that my family fully supports me in my role.”

Patrick emphasizes that having clear priorities and strong discipline is essential to balancing work, family, health, social life, and hobbies.

Open-mindedness goes a long way

Patrick’s career journey reflects being open-minded, one of AT&S’s three core brand values.

His ambition has always been simple. To succeed in everything he does. His drive for efficiency leaves little room for failure, which helps explain his steady career progression. While growth and job satisfaction are important, he draws his motivation from the many colleagues, mentors, customers, and friends he has encountered along the way.

He offers this advice: “The world is complex, and no one can be an expert in everything. Don’t let pride stand in your way – seek and accept help when needed.”

When asked about building high-performing teams, Patrick quotes one of his university professors: “Hire attitude and train skills.”

He firmly believes in building teams of people who are willing to go the extra mile and emphasizes the importance of finding the right fit for each role.

From a leadership perspective, he adds:

“We need clear expectations and a shared goal so everyone moves in the same direction. We must empower our people. At some point, leaders need to delegate and step back. We must fully trust our teams. Be brave and prepared to accept the gap!”

Advice to his younger self

Patrick is content with how his journey has unfolded over the past 20 years, both professionally and personally.

“Looking back, this says a lot about my time at AT&S. Through all the good and challenging times, I wouldn’t change anything significant. That, in itself, is strong evidence of the opportunities AT&S offers – if we are ready and motivated to contribute, develop, and grow.”

Word Rap – Patrick Lenhardt

Profile
Patrick Lenhardt
VP BU Key Account

Favourite food: Very situational – probably something Japanese

Favourite pastime: Family, cooking, reading, motorsports

Favourite travel destination: The three A’s (Australia, Arizona, Austria)

Favourite life quote: “Life is not about waiting for the storm to pass. It’s about learning to dance in the rain.” – Vivian Greene