HomeWork features AHAM members’ insights into careers, success, life outside of work, and AHAM membership. This month, we spoke with David Zak, Global VP, Research & Development, Newell Brands.

How did you get started in the home appliance industry?

I have been in consumer products for 20+ yrs.  I started at Newell Brands in 2002 originally working on the Rubbermaid brand and I have worked on many different product categories along the way.  The diversity of products is one of the things I have loved about working for Newell Brands. I started working on different appliance categories during the second half of my career at Newell Brands and that has led me to my current role and the appliance brands that I support today.   

What early experiences and mentors had the biggest impact on your career path?  

I had a manager very early in my career that had a knack for pushing me outside of my comfort zone, and each time that happened, it would build my confidence. It was those early experiences that got me comfortable with not being afraid of the hard work or the tough assignments, which ultimately set me down the leadership path that I have been on at Newell Brands.

How has consumer behavior changed the most during your time in the industry?

I think the biggest changes I have seen in consumer behavior has been the increased health consciousness and meal preparation, the growth and impact of e-commerce, and the influence of social media. 

What is a common misconception people have about your job or your field?

Often as R&D professionals’ people may think our jobs are purely driven by technology and engineering, but for those R&D professionals that live in the world of consumer products, the success of our development efforts relies just as much on deep consumer insights and understanding as it does on how well we can engineer a widget.

What professional achievement are you most proud of — and why?

I have launched a ton of products over my career, and there are definitely a few that have been more significant than others.   But at the end of the day what makes me most proud is all of the incredibly talented people that I have had the honor of supporting in my various people leadership roles, seeing their careers grow and flourish, and believing that in some small way I have been a positive influence in their growth.

What does your company gain from AHAM membership?

Being part of AHAM allows us to be part of the collective group helping those around our industry better understand the challenges and opportunities that face our industry. AHAM also provides us a forum where we can bring a collective voice and point of view on standards and regulatory matters to ensure that we are delivering the best possible products to our consumers, and that collective voice is louder than the voice of just one company. 

Outside of work, what hobbies or activities help you recharge and develop fresh ideas?

I have always been an avid soccer player since I was young, typically playing several times a week for the last 40+ years. The exercise and competitive spirit of the game has always been a big stress reliever and really helps clear my mind of the clutter to do more strategic thinking. Plus, the morning work outs that come with soccer as a hobby are always good deep-thinking times.