Role Model
Mary Valsama
“I consider diversity an asset and advantage for a company, as it includes diverse knowledge, capabilities and resources, which contribute to achieving our targets better and more efficiently.”
| Business Unit: | Laundry & Home Care |
| Division: | Marketing |
| Job title | Marketing Director |
Question 1
When you were a child, what did you want to be when you grew up?
As a child I was always keen on professions having to do with creativity and projective thinking, like architecture. I was fascinated by the combination of creative design, rules and methods with the actual result of creating remarkable constructions.
Question 2
What has motivated you to take on a position of high responsibility within Henkel?
Conceptual motivation for me is the company itself. Having the luck to grow up and create the biggest part of my carrier within Henkel I had received the benefit of several opportunities and responsibilities on local and international levels, which motivates me to continue and implement company standards on a higher level of responsibility.
Question 3
What were the milestones in your career and are there people or circumstances that have favored your career?
A question that is often posed is, ‘what is more decisive not only for the career but for a lifetime achievement, influencing people you meet or choices you make in certain circumstances?’ I think, both. In my case, I believe that first I had the blessing to meet and work with leaders and tutors who were best examples, and who helped me to make the right choices in the respective circumstances. Coming from a small country, one milestone for me has definitely been the international experience.
Question 4
What is your advice to women seeking to build careers?
I consider diversity an asset and advantage for a company, as it includes diverse knowledge, capabilities and resources, which contribute to achieving our targets better and more efficiently. My advice to women building careers would be to be focused and consistent in their career path and objectives. Work with passion and live the passion on the job, share it and inspire the people who work for, with and above you.