International Women’s Day 2023

Batoul Hasson, Founder and Head of The Salmon Consulting in Paris kicks off our #IWD2023 conversation by sharing her top three focus points on what companies should be doing to reach their goals to #EmbraceEquity this International Women’s Day.

CEO and Co-Founder of Klareco Communications, Shih-Huei Ang took a moment to answer some questions as a female leader in the PR industry.

Managing Director and Head of EU for H/Advisors Cicero, Helena Walsh shared a quote to begin her #IWD2023 piece “We need women at all levels, including the top, to change the dynamic, reshape the conversation, to make sure women’s voices are heard and heeded, not overlooked and ignored.” Sheryl Sandberg, before breaking down the positive changes that she is witnessing in the workplace.

“I’ve been lucky to meet people who acted as sponsors and supported my career. Being the only woman (or one of few) at the table can feel like a challenge but I think it can also be an opportunity.

Just think how much harder it must be to stand out if you look and sound the same as everyone else!”

Adaora Geiger, Partner, H/Advisors Maitland

Mark Twigg, CEO of H/Advisors Cicero weighed in on the importance of men taking part in the conversation about gender equality.

Change must happen with everyone contributing the the conversation, if it is to happen effectively and be long lasting.

Carina Davidson, President of H/Advisors Abernathy shares her personal experiences around female mentors and guidance throughout her life.

Cathrin Sengpiehl, Director of H/Advisors Deekeling Arndt comments on a recent piece by German publication Handelsblatt, where they said ‘there has been a female revolution on executive boards‘.

Cathrin thinks ‘If we look at trends in recent decades, it is probably more of an evolution.‘ and shares her thoughts on Saori Dubourg’s recent exit from BASF and why that should be part of this IWD2023 conversation.

“The importance of mentors cannot be overstated. Women – and everyone for that matter – should be encouraged to be their authentic selves in the workplace. The best teamwork happens when people feel respected and that there is space to be who they are, so that they feel comfortable to be creative, innovative and suggest new ideas. Mentors have a key role to play in setting that example. They can show other colleagues that you don’t have to fit into a certain box and that diversity of thought is a major strength, that’s why we put such a strong emphasis on our own mentoring programme. I’ve seen the positive impact first-hand and how building a network of mentors can really empower colleagues.”

Kate Pledger, Senior Consultant, H/Advisors Maitland