Women in Nexans: Diversity as a source of inspiration

Launched in 2018, Women in Nexans (WiN) is a Nexans initiative aimed at developing an internal community encouraging individual development and career path enhancement for women. Established in 5 regions and 27 countries with central and local leaders, WiN helps women in different roles share their experience and gain support in their career development, now it's on USA to have the word.

This month, meet Karen Berry, Plant Manager of Fuquay-Varina, Women in Nexans member in the US.

Could you briefly introduce yourself?

Hello everyone! I'm Karen Berry, Plant Manager of Nexans' Fuquay-Varina plant in the USA.

I began my career at Nexans in 1996 as Quality Manager for the Fiber Business in Fuquay-Varina, North Carolina (US). I have held positions as Engineering Manager, Production Manager, and, two years ago, I was given the opportunity to serve as the Director of Operations for the Fiber Business.

What are your main challenges in your position?

My passion and priority is to ensure well-being of the people who work in our plants by maintaining a primary focus on safety and safe practices for our employees. I believe this is a key challenge for all Plant Managers.
Secondly, maintaining a work-life balance is an important challenge for our employees at all levels of the organization. As a Leader, I believe we have a responsibility to challenge and inspire employees to develop personally and professionally. We do this by setting the vision, coaching, and following up to ensure that actions from our employees and teams are aligned with this vision.

As a woman who achieved great accomplishments during your career in the company, how would you encourage other women to chase their dreams in Nexans?

I think it is important for managers and leaders at all levels of the organization to recognize how diversity helps to inspire innovation, progress, and success. As a female Plant Manager, I encourage women to make sure that their voice is heard and that they work with their Manager to agree on a development plan that will help them reach their career goals.

At the same time, as Leaders, we must be able to recognize talent, encourage and mentor women within our organizations so that they are ready for new opportunities and promotions.