International Women’s Day – 3 voices

Fabiana:
When I started my career, it wasn’t common for women to be recruited in technical / management roles, due to biases such as fragility and motherhood. Today, it’s heartening to see so many women in senior management positions in different companies. I remember being the only woman in a meeting of 48 managers. The journey to earn my place among them underlined the progress women have made.

Francisca:
I agree, I was usually the only woman in 99% of all meetings. I have had some very interesting experiences when visiting sites, such as no women’s toilets or only men’s PPE available in sizes where I could fit in at least twice. I never felt my career was being held back… This may be because I am a competitive person – so I never really cared who I had to discuss or negotiate with. However, when I started leading teams, I became more aware of the traditional role expectations that exist in different cultures and I experienced how difficult it can be for women to pursue a career – especially when you look at the trades.

Fabiana:
Today, companies are increasingly embracing diversity, fostering a safe environment and expanding opportunities to promote a fairer marketplace. When I look back and observe the changes I’ve seen, I’m happy to know that I’ve been able to help create this environment at RIP.

Liliane:
Fortunately, today’s landscape is in stark contrast to the past. Witnessing the central role played by women at KAEFER is immensely motivating.

Francisca:
Progress has indeed been made, but challenges remain. The persistence of a boys’ club culture in some areas underlines the need for sustained efforts. Closing the gender pay gap and strengthening support infrastructures around the world remain imperative. But by using our positions, we can make a difference for future generations.

Liliane:
Absolutely! I believe that valuing diversity throughout KAEFER makes us stronger and more confident, and that our differences make the company more innovative, creative and promising.

Fabiana:
I’m committed to the PLURAL programme and to diversity and inclusion efforts. Our journey towards gender equity and a nurturing work environment is in line with our Code of Ethics. New employees are infected by our values, our diversity and, above all, the care we give to our people. This creates an inspiring and productive working environment.

Francisca:
To go one step further, I became one of the directors of the KAEFER FOUNDATION. This gives me the opportunity to do something more, to help people in need and to make a difference.

Francisca:
Learning from both positive and challenging leadership experiences has been instrumental in refining my own leadership style. Even if you sometimes feel that a bad leader will make your life miserable, it is up to you what you take away. I have learned so much from many difficult moments that today I try to give something back by mentoring younger women (and men) in and outside the company.

Fabiana:
Over the years, many people have influenced and shaped my approach to leadership. Álfio Thomaselli (founder of RIP Serviços Industriais) with his simplicity and entrepreneurship, Jose Silvestre’s management skills, Sandro Barrach’s objectivity and clarity and Cristhian Schwartzmann’s commercial and strategic vision.

Liliane:
I totally agree with Fabiana, but I would like to add her name to the list as she has been very supportive of my development as a leader. I believe that no one does anything alone and that we can always learn from the people we have the opportunity to work with.

Fabiana:
My cultural background influences my approach, and from a gender perspective, I see that I have a different leadership style than other (male) colleagues. Over the years I have realised that I can act in my own way and still be respected as a leader and achieve the same results. I believe in participative management, where everyone can contribute to solving problems, considering the characteristics and experience of each individual, involving the team in improvement processes and creating an innovative environment with a sense of commitment and belonging.

Francisca:
Growing up in a healthy competitive environment (family, school, sports) has undoubtedly influenced my leadership style. I absolutely agree with Fabiana about the benefits of participative management, and I live it. But I have to say that my team has told me more than once that I often take good work for granted and miss out on recognising it. I am trying to improve this, but it is an example of my cultural background, and it reflects the expectations I have of myself and my team in a competitive environment.
Fortunately, most of my team have been with me for over 10 years and together we have developed an incredible sense of belonging.

Liliane:
Share your career aspirations with trusted mentors. Let them know about your desire and try to understand what is missing for you to get where you want to go. Look for development and prepare to be ready when the opportunity comes.
Never lose sight of your roots and supporters. Your growth is accompanied by people who believe in your potential, the result always comes. And when it comes, stay humble, for we will always have something to learn from others.

Fabiana:
Each of us has a unique story, a personal and professional journey that shapes who we are. I’ve had countless experiences over the years, but one lesson remains constant: believe in yourself relentlessly, pursue your goals with determination and seize the opportunities that come your way. You will never get anywhere by copying others. Authenticity is the path to success.
Each of us must help the other. My motto is: If I am going to get there, I want to get there with others.

Francisca:
It’s hard to find anything to add here. Just one thing: don’t be afraid and don’t set limits on what you can achieve. If you have to fight for it, fight for it, and if you want to take a chance, don’t wait for someone to offer it to you, go for it.