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Celebrating International Women's Day at Survitec

06/03/26

International Women’s Day is a global celebration championing the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women.  

At Survitec we celebrate the diverse talents of women across our global operations. The representation of women is essential at every level, and we are proud to demonstrate that commitment through our people and our leadership.

This year’s theme is ‘Give to Gain’, and we spoke to women across the business to find out what it means to them.

 

Alex Scollins - Product Category Manager

Alex Schollins

How does this year's theme resonate with you?

It resonates with me because so much of growth, both personal and professional, comes from generosity. When we give our time, knowledge, support, or encouragement, we create space for others to rise. And in doing so, we build stronger teams, deeper trust, and more inclusive workplaces. I’ve learned that success isn’t diminished by lifting others; it’s amplified by it.

If you could give one piece of advice to your younger self starting in this industry/role, what would it be? 

You don’t need to have all the answers to deserve a seat at the table. Confidence grows through action, not before it. Speak up, ask questions, and don’t underestimate the value of your perspective. The moments that feel most uncomfortable are often the ones that shape you most.

What does ‘Give to Gain' mean to you in the context of your specific role? 

For me, giving isn’t about sacrifice, it’s about contribution. And contribution is what drives meaningful progress.

 

Jill Reiten - Sales Manager

How does this year's theme resonate with you?

It really speaks to me in the role I have in Survitec. Sales is about building trust, long-term partnerships, and creating value beyond the transaction.


If you could give one piece of advice to your younger self starting in this industry/role, what would it be?

Don’t wait until you feel 100% ready. Take your seat at the table, trust your competence, and build strong relationships along the way. You don’t need to know everything, but you need to believe in the value you bring.


What does ‘Give to Gain' mean to you in the context of your specific role?

For me, it means sharing my knowledge, opening doors and supporting colleagues, pushing for more diversity in an industry that is still male-dominated. When we invest in others by mentoring and collaborating, we strengthen our teams, partnerships and our industry.

Jill Reiten – Sales Manager

 

Jennifer Xu - People Director

Jennifer Xu

How does this year's theme resonate with you?

I believe everyone goes on their own journey with the idea of 'Give to Gain.' To me, it’s like planting a small seed: you water it and care for it every day, watching it grow until it finally bears fruit. That moment of success is incredibly rewarding.

If you could give one piece of advice to your younger self starting in this industry/role, what would it be? 

Sometimes we aren't just here to get things done, but to understand the 'why' behind what others do. I want to challenge myself to embrace more variety, not just in terms of culture, but in the different ways people approach their work.

What does ‘Give to Gain' mean to you in the context of your specific role?

For me, the true reward of working in HR isn't personal gain, it’s seeing our people thrive and grow within the company. I’m always eager to share what I know to help someone else level up, because their development is my biggest success.

 

Dimitra Kourmatz  - Regional Compliance Officer & Head of ESG & DE&I 

How does this year's theme resonate with you? 

It confirms that I need to step up and confirms the importance of ‘hood’ in sisterhood, brotherhood, and peoplehood and knowing that one person can make a difference for you, but together we can make a much bigger difference for all.


If you could give one piece of advice to your younger self starting in this industry/role, what would it be?

Never leave your fate in the hands of others. Stand out and stand up for what you want.  Remember it's ok if you fall but find your strength and a way to get back up because that’s what matters.


What does ‘Give to Gain' mean to you in the context of your specific role?

There are many times that you may see someone whose voice can’t be heard, be their voice.  Stand up for others, after all, at the end of the day, we are all one team. If we want to become stronger, sometimes we need to fight battles which are not ours.

Dimitra Kourmatzi

 

Laura Young – Assistant Accountant 

Laura Young

How does this year's theme resonate with you?

Give to Gain resonates with me as it highlights the power of intentional support. Throughout my career I have seen how a small act such as someone sharing advice, advocating in a meeting, saying hello or opening a door for someone can create lasting impact. This theme reminds me that equality isn’t just about policies it is also about everyday actions. When we give encouragement, opportunities, and trust, we gain stronger teams, better ideas, and a more supportive culture.

I feel that it reinforces that investing in women’s growth isn’t a favour, it is a shared advantage. When one person rises, it creates space for others to rise too.

If you could give one piece of advice to your younger self starting in this industry/role, what would it be?

My advice would be not to hold back or wait until you feel 100% ready before putting yourself forward for opportunities. Confidence often comes after action, not before it. Early in your career, it’s easy to believe you need to know everything before you contribute but growth happens in the doing, not in the waiting. I would remind myself to speak up earlier, to share ideas even when they’re still forming, and to trust that my perspective adds value. You don’t have to have the finished answer to start the conversation. Some of the best opportunities come from being visible and willing, not from being perfect.

I’d also remind myself that setbacks aren’t failures, they’re feedback. Every challenge build’s resilience, capability, and confidence. Growth doesn’t come from perfection, it comes from participation, consistency, and having the courage to step forward even when it feels uncomfortable.

What does Give to Gain' mean to you in the context of your specific role?

To me, “Give to Gain” in finance means remembering that our role isn’t just about the numbers, it’s about the people and decisions behind them.

When I take the time to mentor a colleague, simplify complex information, or proactively identify opportunities and risks, I’m contributing to a culture of shared growth. In return, I gain stronger relationships, better collaboration, broader perspectives, and a deeper understanding of the business. I am contributing to shared success. Finance is built on trust. When we give clarity, integrity, and support, we gain influence and impact far beyond the spreadsheets.