Schindler : I thought I had to be like a man

After three successful years as a branch manager, Cordula moved into strategic roles until 2016, when she was promoted to the management board in Schindler Germany as Head of FQE - the first woman in Germany in this technical management position - even though she is not an engineer.

Thankfully, in 2022, women do face fewer barriers in their careers - although bias still exists. At a time when people are encouraged to #breakthebias in celebration of International Women's Day, what advice does Cordula have for others to manage a successful career?

"Find out who you are, what you stand for, and what you want from life," she says. "Then be authentic and go your own way. It won't always be easy because sometimes it seems to be easier to adapt than to be your true self. And as a leader it's important to be an authentic role model. Last advice - be brave and don't be afraid of an uneven career path by stepping back or sideways if it makes you happy and fits to your life."

As a role model herself, who have been Cordula's role models?

"Three people on my way have really encouraged and supported me. Two were early in my career, who trusted in me. The first was leading the apprenticeship program and he gave me a chance, when everyone else was telling me I would fail. And the second was a sales engineer, who supported me in my plan to change from controlling to modernization sales as a sales representative. He openly shared all his knowledge and trained me in elevator technology. The third was my last boss, Meinolf Pohle, who brought me to the German management board. He allowed me time to develop into the role and supported me when I needed it."

Still, it's not easy to attract women into the technology side of the business. Cordula has some practical advice for those looking to take the leap.

"Don't be afraid of taking over a job at the technology side of our business. Often, it's not so much about the technical knowledge than it is about how to deal with people," she says. "Support networks are important - There are so many great people in this company you can ask about our technology - but it is on you to ask. It's important to invest time in building your network, for example to share a pizza and a beer with colleagues. Men are much better than women at doing this in my view. But most important in every position is to be authentic, to set and follow the right values, share knowledge and empower others."

What about Cordula out of work?

"I love to listen to music, mainly rock music. I have lots of open concert tickets from the last two years I am looking forward to all of them! I also like being outdoors, at the seaside or cycling and hiking. When I'm feeling creative, I like to sew. And, of course most important, spending time with my family. There is so much life is offering you."

And she concludes: "You only have one life so take care of yourself, stay healthy and work safe and make the most of it, whatever it means for you. And if you are passionate in what you do - things will work out and you will be successful."