"Both genders have key strengths"

I have a background in business administration and finance with a specialisation in insurance and risk management, so this profession was a deliberate choice. What appealed to me most was probably the broad perspective of thinking you have to apply and the many business areas the subject matter in itself finds application. If you are a person who has an inquisitive mind, who can think the big picture and has an eye for detail, this is something for you. 

I am a young female executive and that in itself is still not often the norm and it is something that admittedly you do not see every day. But if you are that person, it is less of a topic to yourself than it might be to others. I was always driven and enthusiastic, could absorb a lot and had a good feeling for the right timing as well. This is helpful. In addition – and this is key – I had a supporter who was my previous boss and chief financial officer. Someone who believes in you is essential. Of course, that must be paired with skill and ability. The belief in itself is not enough. 

If we recognise that women and men are different by nature and that this is a good thing, this topic will be less and less of an issue in the future. Although I always find it important that both genders do have some key strengths. I believe women think more holistically, applying a more factual thinking than men do at times. Our profession relies on people who can stay objective and apply broad and factual thinking when others in a company might already apply a ‘silo’ thinking.