Welcome to Challenges in Recruiting Women in India, a podcast series where we explore the barriers, cultural nuances, and innovative solutions shaping women's participation in India's workforce.
In each episode, we hear from industry leaders, policymakers, and changemakers who are driving efforts to create more inclusive workplaces and advance gender equality.
This episode focuses on Leadership: Paving the Way as the First. We unpack the unique challenges women face in leadership roles and explore actionable solutions to inspire change.
Annette Holte, the Country Manager at Kongsberg Maritime India share her journey, insights on leadership in a male-dominated industry, and strategies for breaking barriers to increase the number of women in leadership.
We asked her:
Annette, could you start by sharing a bit about yourself and your journey to becoming the Country Manager at Kongsberg Maritime India? What unique challenges have you encountered working in India, and how has this shaped your perspective on leadership?
Coming from the Nordics, what strategies do you think Indian organizations can adopt to develop leadership pathways for women? How can they address the cultural and systemic barriers specific to India?
In male-dominated sectors, breaking norms often requires both resistance and resilience. Can you share any examples of how you’ve challenged deeply entrenched norms in India to create opportunities for women?
What values define your leadership style as the first woman—and hopefully not the only one—to serve as Country Manager? How do you ensure that your work makes a meaningful impact on advancing gender diversity?
What steps can organizations in India take to dismantle harmful gender stereotypes in male-dominated industries? Have you encountered any particularly effective initiatives that have successfully transformed perceptions and practices?
Based on our discussion today, what is one key action you would recommend to individuals or organizations to promote sustainable gender diversity? Are there any changes you’ve personally implemented that others could adopt in their daily lives to make a difference?
