Examining the obstacles faced by female executives, and how organizations can increase female leadership and reap the benefits.
Career Enablers in a Professional Context
Supportive boss, supportive environment and strong networks
What were the main facilitators for your career?
- A supportive manager and environment create a strong culture for aspirational leaders
- Networks are important for being known, leading to more recommendations for promotion or new roles
- Tertiary level academic qualifications are noted, but career-based personal development, particularly international postings, have more impact
Thoughts on Career Enablers – Professional
Self-belief and professional development
“I went to business school and courses facilitated by my employer. Role modeling and sponsorship by senior executives investing in my personal development was key.”
— CEO, Banking, United Kingdom
“An MBA gave me confidence in my own views and trust in my intuition. I realised there was no ‘magic something’ that other people had that I did not.”
— CEO, Electronics, Southern
“I did an exchange semester, I had a good education and speak different languages.”
— CEO, Insurance, German-speaking
“It was a mixture of everything. I did whatever it took for me to move ahead. I had great determination and never got stuck in one role. I also took risks.”
— Regional VP, Chemicals, United Kingdom
Support and investment from managers and colleagues
“In competing for a role, people thought I was too young – and a woman. My boss stood by me and I won the promotion. My competitor was a man 10-years older”
— HR Director, Logistics, United Kingdom
“You need somebody who looks after and helps you. I was young and successful because I was given the chance to do something”
— Subsidiary Head, Pharmaceuticals, German-speaking
“I can point to three men, all bosses, in my career who gave me something which triggered me to another level”
— Executive Director, Industrial, United Kingdom
“There have been people who showed trust and believed in me. That gave me strength. When I did my doctorate one of my first bosses offered me a manager position. It is important to make people feel that you believe in them”
— CEO, Pharmaceuticals, Nordic
Thoughts on Career Enablers – Personal
Personal determination, risk-taking and ability to overcome fear
“Sheer bloody-mindedness and wanting to prove I can do a good job, nothing to do with network and mentor, sheer bloody-mindedness.”
—CEO, Electronics, United Kingdom
“My own drive. I am non-prestigious and I am brave. I am not afraid to fail, that is important.”
— SVP Human Resources, Retail, Nordic
“I have my own drive, looking out for opportunities and never giving up.”
— CEO, Industrial, German-speaking
“The ability to build healthy, professional relationships, language skills and the ability to adapt to different cultures.”
— Managing Director, FMCG, Southern
Networks are Key to Accessing Leadership Roles
Higher prevalence of networking in the United Kingdom and Nordic regions
“The impact of networks on my career was massive. My current role came through a mentor network. It’s about building strong relationships, even just a couple of times a year.”
— Director, Aerospace & Defence, United Kingdom
“I have good network connections who supported me and my development, sending me overseas. I wouldn’t be where I am today without that.”
— HR Director, Industrial, United Kingdom
“Networks have been important. When I was responsible for health issues in the company we needed to create something new. From my network I could get knowledge and people to discuss it and make it happen.”
— VP Human Resources Strategy, Public Sector
“Female networks can be good for opening doors and making other women visible. Tip off headhunters about other women!”
— HR Director, Industrial, Nordic
“I have often been asked to give career advice. The classic answer is choosing the right boss. It will give you self-confidence when they help you grow”
— Chairman of the Board, FMCG, Nordic
