How I got here
“i thrive for a positive mindset as it keeps me engaged and connected. I am convinced that by creating the right working conditions, by promoting diversity as a natural part of our corporate culture, we can really ensure that equity is translated into action.”
Sabine Bruckner, Country Manager Pfizer
What was your dream career as
a girl?
When I was a young girl, I wanted to become a doctor, inspired by our pediatrician, who magically could make you feel better. Not all family members were happy about this ambition, particularly my siblings, who needed to serve as patients and swallow all kinds of self-made medication I mixed. Later I moved to Economics but Natural Science kept its fascination, so my entire career I worked within the Healthcare environment.
What was your aha-moment when you realized that gender stereotypes may (or do) have an impact on your career development?
How did you deal with it?
Looking for a new career step I was applying for a leadership position in a mid-size organization. The role profile fit very well with my CV and experience and I felt confident demonstrating the “fresh spirit” I could bring to the role which the company was looking for. Feedback from the headhunter post-interview was: “They exactly want someone with your profile, but male.”
This was kind of an eye-opener to me: until then I had not experienced first-hand gender stereotypes and suddenly realized that there might be career limitations to a female in her late-twenties due to stereotypes in the mind of decision makers. This experience made me very sensitive about this topic and I am personally engaged in raising awareness and fighting against this.
What is your number 1 advice for career aspiring women?
Don’t put too much pressure on yourself or assume you must prove you can manage everything yourself. Make sure you motivate and mobilize supporters around you. And be mindful of taking care of yourself, reserving time for what brings you JOY.