Today, industry leaders gathered at the CWIEME event in Berlin for a panel discussion on "Diversity in the Workplace: How to Foster & Encourage a More Inclusive Sector". This critical session, held from 09:40 to 10:20 on the Central Stage, addressed the dynamic changes and disruptions faced by the CWIEME industries over the last decade. Amid rising global trade disputes, geopolitical tensions, and stringent decarbonization regulations, the panel emphasized that fostering gender diversity is crucial for companies seeking a competitive edge in this evolving landscape.

Moderated by Kaitlin Vandemark, CAPEX and Indirect Category Manager at Hitachi Energy, the discussion featured insights from prominent industry figures. Georges Houtappel, Executive Vice President and Global Head of Automotive Business at Syensqo, shared his experiences in promoting a diverse workforce and the resulting benefits. Irem Unlu Demir, Head of Power Global Key Accounts at Shell, highlighted the successful strategies implemented within her organization. Javiera McGuiggan, Assistant Vice President and Global Business Leader at Cargill BioIndustrial – Power Systems, and Stefanie Klein, Initiative Lead for WoMen4Metals, also contributed their perspectives on overcoming barriers and the tangible advantages of a more inclusive sector.

The panelists collectively underscored that achieving long-term success in the current market requires a heightened focus on people and diversity. They discussed various strategies to encourage gender diversity, the obstacles encountered, and the lessons learned from their journeys. The session provided valuable insights into how a diverse workforce not only fosters innovation but also enhances business performance, offering attendees a blueprint for integrating these practices into their own companies.

Source: CWIEME Berlin