Empowerment and Diversity: Women at IOI Oleo GmbH share their experiences on International Women’s Day
21. March 2023
International Women’s Day is celebrated on March 8th each year to recognize the achievements of women around the world and draw attention to the challenges they continue to face. At IOI Oleo GmbH, we took this day as an opportunity to interview three of our dedicated and talented female colleagues and to share their experiences and perspectives with you.
Kathleen Wendrich – Head of Human Resources
Kathleen has been with IOI for 13 years and has two children. Her empathetic approach makes her a strong head of human resources.
Kathleen talks about a yoga trainer who motivated her to live more consciously and mindfully in order to better face the daily challenges of combining work and family. Her message to other women is clear: “Do what makes you happy and if you have to take detours or start from scratch, then do so. Today, CVs no longer need to show a straight career path. Personalities are much more important to me.”
Jette Stech – Apprentice electronics technician for industrial engineering
Jette is 17 years old, in her first year of training and a member of the volunteer fire brigade. Despite prejudices against women in technical professions, she bravely decided on her passion and has found her place in the craft.
Jette wants the profession to be equal and emphasizes: “If women have the desire to practise this profession, then they shouldn’t think too long, they should just do it.” She is grateful for the support of her colleagues and encourages other women to do what makes them happy.
Nathalie Azuara – Sales Manager Personal Care
Nathalie has been with IOI for 3 years, has 25 years’ experience in the cosmetics industry and is based in Bordeaux, France.
Simone Veil, a French icon in the fight for women’s rights, inspired Nathalie in her life and career. Her strengths, such as courage, determination, honesty and perseverance (and of course being a woman) made her the person she is today. Her message to women interested in Nathalie’s field of work: “The cosmetics industry is one of the fairest areas in terms of gender equality. Join us!”
Conclusion:
International Women’s Day at IOI Oleo GmbH shows that success, commitment and passion are not gender-specific attributes. Kathleen, Jette and Nathalie are examples of how women can be successful in different roles and areas. Their stories and messages underscore the importance of equality, confidence and courage for all women who want to pursue their passions and achieve their goals.
We are proud of our diverse and talented colleagues and follow the call to create a future in which everyone, regardless of gender, origin or social background, has the same opportunities to exploit their talents and abilities and to realize their dreams. Our stories of Kathleen, Jette and Nathalie should serve as an example of what is possible when we dare to go our own way and stand up for one another.
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Odile Grahl
Odile Grahl is Head of the Marketing department at IOI Oleo GmbH. Following her studies in Law and Business Administration in France, her curiosity led the French native to Germany. Through her willingness to explore new paths and work with different people, and her fascination for customers’ products and needs, Odile gained relevant experience in the areas of BtoB and BtoC in a variety of positions, both in medium-sized structures and international groups (Henkel and Beiersdorf). She finds stimulation in architecture and design and relaxation in painting with acrylics, cooking or yoga…. The world of fragrances has been a special inspiration to her for many years now.