Severine Hoss, CFO & COO at Alpha Nero, talks about the challenges women have to face in climbing up the ladder and believes that perseverance is the key to breaking the barriers in male-dominated industries.
How did you land in your current role, and how would you define your journey?
Perseverance, the absence of fear when it came to breaking barriers in a male-dominated environment, and the courage to seize opportunities have been defining factors along my journey, leading to my current role.
What challenges have you faced as a woman entrepreneur in male-dominated industries?
Regardless of proficiency or recognition, there remains an unspoken need to validate ourselves, as men tend to evaluate female peers naturally through a predetermined lens.
How do you navigate biases or stereotypes that may exist against women in senior leadership roles?
Honestly, I believe we need to accept that those stereotypes still exist. This is equally important so we understand what we are working with. I make a point of committing and doing what I set out to do 200%. I make sure that I am always in full control of what I do.
Can you share any strategies you’ve found effective for breaking into male-dominated industries?
The primary strategy is to prove to them and yourself that you are able to do it – and to do this confidently, you need to constantly upskill, stay abreast of industry shifts, update certifications and seek mentorship for valuable guidance – I’ve found coaching particularly beneficial. Cultivating resilience to gracefully navigate setbacks, learn from them, and progress is equally vital.
What advice would you give to other women aspiring to leadership positions in traditionally male-dominated sectors?
Here are my suggestions:
- Immerse yourself in the industry, grasp its nuances, and exude confidence in your knowledge.
- Embrace continuous learning, upgrade certifications, and delve into leadership, management, emotional intelligence, and communication realms. There are invaluable case studies to learn from and lean on.
- Seize opportunities to enhance visibility by tackling projects or challenges within the organization.
- If you face the notorious stereotypes, do not be discouraged – perseverance is key, and this will prevail.
In your experience, what are the key factors contributing to the underrepresentation of women in senior leadership roles?
I see this issue as deeply rooted in societal and cultural norms, particularly within male-dominated environments. Challenging stereotypes remain an ongoing battle that demands acknowledgement. Women continue to face inequality, and the most effective way to combat these biases is by demonstrating capability and excellence in our endeavours.
Have you encountered any specific instances of gender discrimination or inequality in your career, and how did you address them?
I certainly did – however – I did not address them directly. I chose to remain focused, working hard to prove that I deserved my position and, at the right time, claim what I believed I deserved.
Despite facing setbacks and disappointments, even while I was dedicated and diligent, I have learned to persevere, knowing that opportunities abound for those who dare to seize them until their contributions are acknowledged.
How do you foster an inclusive and supportive work environment for women within your company?
Being in a leadership role in my company, I am very conscious about gender equality and an inclusive environment for all women. We have women in management roles as well as in key positions traditionally dominated by men in the manufacturing industry – such as our logistics, accounts and store teams. I make sure that they can have a work-life balance that does not impact their career progression.
What initiatives or programs do you believe are most effective in promoting gender diversity and equity in leadership?
In my opinion, initiatives or programs that focus on mentorship and sponsorship for women, unconscious bias training for all employees, and transparent policies regarding pay equity and promotion criteria are among the most effective in promoting gender diversity and equity in leadership. Additionally, implementing flexible work arrangements and fostering a culture that values diversity and inclusion can also contribute significantly to achieving gender balance and work satisfaction in leadership positions.
Have you observed any shifts or progress in recent years regarding gender equality in male-dominated industries?
I’ve observed progress primarily due to government and organizational initiatives addressing the issue, such as voting laws, quotas, and equal pay measures, which compel companies to comply. These efforts provide women with opportunities to demonstrate their abilities and gain visibility, ultimately leading to greater recognition.
How do you leverage your unique perspective and experiences as a woman in leadership to drive innovation and success in your business?
I believe that as a woman, I offer different insights derived from life experiences and my approach to overcoming obstacles. Emotional intelligence, a strength often associated with women, enables us to cultivate robust teams. I make an effort to mentor other women within the company, helping them develop both skills and confidence in their abilities. Additionally, I strive to promote inclusive leadership, where all voices are valued, fostering a more dynamic and innovative workplace.
