thebrokernews Podcast Episode 3: Women in leadership roles – The challenges and opportunities in Switzerland and beyond

In the latest podcast from thebrokernews, which deals with the empowerment of women in the business world, it becomes clear that it is never too late to become an entrepreneur. Hosts Mirela and Binci shed light on women’s rights, equal opportunities and especially women in leadership positions – a topic that is particularly relevant in the month of March, when International Women’s Day is celebrated.

In our third podcast, Mirela and Binci talk about women in leadership positions in Switzerland and the challenges they face. Let’s start with a historical review of women’s rights.

Progress and challenges in Switzerland

Binci begins with a historical review of women’s rights in Switzerland. Interestingly, it was not until 1971 that women were given the right to vote and be elected. This made Switzerland one of the last European nations to take this step. Despite the progress made in recent decades, such as the increase in the employment rate of women to around 80 percent, the pay gap for women, who earn around 12 percent less than men, remains a significant hurdle.

The introduction of maternity leave in 2005 was a step in the right direction, but there is a lack of comprehensive rules for fathers, which makes the balance between work and family even more difficult. Binci emphasizes that despite a legal framework that should guarantee equality, many companies still have difficulties implementing gender equality, especially in management positions.

One notable step forward is the legal regulation introduced in 2020, which requires large companies to have at least 30 percent women on their boards and 20 percent in management by 2026. This increases the pressure on companies to specifically promote diversity.

A look to the east: Mirela’s experiences

Mirela, who was born in Romania and can describe her career as a woman in a country of the former Eastern Bloc, describes her own experiences. In comparison to her past in Romania, she emphasizes that women there often receive more support in terms of equality and career opportunities – especially through affordable childcare options and a social environment that makes it easier for women to combine family and career.

She talks about her positive experience at Allianz, where she never had the feeling of being disadvantaged because of her gender. But she also mentions the downsides: Prejudice and discrimination that still exist, especially away from the big companies.

Women in entrepreneurship

Binci reports on the growing number of female entrepreneurs in Switzerland who are active in sectors such as technology, sustainable products, healthcare and education. She emphasizes that despite challenges such as financing and gender stereotypes, many women are successful in these areas and contribute to the innovative strength of the Swiss economy.

The challenges of being a single mother

As a single mother, Mirela gives a deep insight into the challenges she faced. She describes the uncertainties that arose when moving to a new country and during the separation from her then husband. It was a difficult time in which she had to fight for both her professional and family situation. Mirella encourages other single mothers to seek help and support each other.

The future of women

The discussion in the podcast highlights important issues for the future of women in business. Switzerland has already made great strides in terms of women in leadership positions, but much remains to be done. It is crucial to raise awareness of the challenges and opportunities that women continue to face in the world of work.

As the hosts emphasize: Despite all the challenges, it is important to have the courage to go your own way, regardless of your age or current circumstances. Women can and should take on leadership roles in all areas of life – it’s never too late to take the first step.

Visit thebrokernews podcast to learn more about topics like these and discover inspiring stories from the world of insurance and beyond.

Binci Heeb

Listen and read also: thebrokernews Podcast Episode 2: Life 50+ and job loss