Celebrating 30 Years: Nora’s Journey with Apollo Germany
When Nora Gehner joined Apollo Germany in 1996, the company looked very different from what it is today.
“When I started… it was just my boss, Falk Blodorn, and me,” she recalls.
From the outset, Nora played a vital role in helping shape the business. With Blodorn frequently travelling to grow the company, she quickly became the backbone of the operation. “I was usually alone in the office and thus responsible for both the office and the warehouse,” she says. “That was something I really enjoyed from the start, since I had to deal with many different tasks.”
This early experience and necessity to maintain stability in the company’s early days set the tone for a career defined by versatility, independence, and adaptability.
I’ve really enjoyed working for this company over the years, as the tasks were always very diverse and varied, and I got to be part of the company’s continued successful growth.
As the company expanded, Nora was there every step of the way. The business grew, new colleagues joined, and Apollo Germany moved into larger premises. Despite these changes, Nora’s role remained central. “I continued to handle various internal tasks, which remained very varied and challenging,” she explains.
In 2001, she reached a major milestone in her personal life. “The best thing that can happen in life happened: my daughter was born.” After a year and a half of maternity leave, she returned to support both colleagues and leadership as the company’s success grew further.
Over the years, Nora has witnessed and contributed to multiple phases of growth – from Apollo GmbH’s early days to becoming part of the wider Apollo Europe network. Following the retirement of Blodorn, she seamlessly transitioned to supporting new leadership while maintaining core responsibilities of office organization, bookkeeping, and purchasing.
Dear Nora, thank you for 30 years of outstanding commitment – we look forward to many more shared successes!
The words of her colleagues perhaps speak volumes the most.
“What truly sets Nora apart is her positive and humble nature,” says Marcus Roettger, Regional Sales Manager of Apollo Germany. “Despite her vast knowledge, she always puts the team first and supports others with great willingness and patience. In doing so, she embodies the very values that define Apollo: commitment, quality, and genuine collaboration.”
“Over three decades, she has not only contributed significantly to the company’s success but has also had a lasting impact on team spirit and collaboration. Her loyalty and continuous dedication deserve the highest recognition.“
Reflecting on three decades with the company, Nora highlights both the professional and personal aspects that have made her journey so rewarding.
“I’ve really enjoyed working for this company over the years, as the tasks were always very diverse and varied, and I got to be part of the company’s continued successful growth.”
But for Nora, it’s the people and the shared experiences that truly stand out. “Over the years, I’ve gained many great colleagues,” she shares. “We had a lot of fun at work and celebrated some wonderful parties. But we also enjoyed sitting together over coffee and cake from time to time”.
From managing a one-room operation to supporting a thriving, international business, Nora’s story is a testament to dedication, adaptability, and the lasting impact one person can have over 30 years.
Thank you for everything, Nora!