08/03/2023
Marie Thepaut is our Senior Sales Executive for Southern Europe. She has long supported women’s causes and, during her time with Oracle, was an Oracle Women’s Leader for Malaga.
Q. Why haven’t we reached equity yet in the workplace?
A. Despite advances, women still face difficulties. Globally, there is a lack of reforms to laws and regulations that would:
- favour greater economic inclusion of women
- grant more legal protections against sexual harassment
- eliminate restrictions on women's employment
- increase access to certain sectors of the economy that were previously forbidden
- require equal pay for work of equal value
In more "advanced" countries we need to work on fostering a culture of co-responsibility for the family, to allow women to advance in the same way as men – without having to slow down their careers to have children.
Q. Have you faced any barriers in your career due to being a woman?
A. Maternity has been the biggest barrier in my career. Lack of co-responsibility at home leaves so many women carrying a disproportionately larger share of domestic and care work. This puts them at odds with the “always-available” leadership expectation that exists in many workplaces and becomes the single greatest barrier to gender equality.
It leads to a perception that people who work part-time or flexible hours will not be considered for promotions.
There are also structural barriers, such as unequal access to sponsorship. High-potential women are over-mentored and under-sponsored relative to their male peers.
As women we tend to minimise our contributions, we tend not to dare to put ourselves in the spotlight thinking that we won't be able to do it. For example, when considering applying for a job, we will look at it point by point and decide not to apply if we think we do not cover everything.
Q. How have you overcome these barriers?
A. I try not to feel guilty at work for being a mother and at home for being a worker. I believe in my capabilities and know my added value. I’ve built and worked with a group of women to positively impact society through a Women Leadership Association.
Q. What is the most important piece of advice you have been given?
A. You must believe in yourself and be yourself. Don’t try to be someone else. Your differences are your strength and your empathy will lead to change.
Q. How can we encourage more women to pursue senior leadership roles in their career?
A. Companies and employees must try harder to:
- understand the value of their female team
- offer professional development plans
- build a real talent pipeline
- understand the benefits of leadership diversity,
- advocate for female leadership and give women a fair chance
Q. What is the most important message you can share with young women at the start of their careers?
A. You can do whatever you set your mind to. Never give up.
