October 2018 Member Spotlight
Stefanie Gunia
October 2018
Senior Consultant at Kalypso
1. Can you tell us a bit about your background and your role?
I am a Senior Consultant at Kalypso; a global consulting firm focused on innovation, product development, in a digital world. I support Product Lifecycle Management implementations in the CPG industry. Before Kalypso, I worked for the retailer Hunkemöller as a marketing specialist for Germany and Austria, and before that, I worked for Starbucks and Domino’s Pizza.
2. Why are you passionate about the mission of the LEAD Network?
I have been very fortunate to work in global and diverse firms throughout my career and especially now at Kalypso. Kalypso provides me with the opportunity to work globally in teams made up of different nationalities, ages and backgrounds. I believe that not only diversity will enhance results and it is essential for innovative thinking, but it is also very beneficial for personal development and growth. I am a strong supporter of advancing diversity in the workforce. But there is still a lot which needs to be addressed, and therefore I am proud to be a member of the LEAD Network to support its mission to attract, retain and advance women.
3. What would you say is one of the most adventurous or riskiest moves you’ve made professionally?
Two years ago, I decided that I am ready for a new challenge. I left the comfort of my marketing position, my home base and my friends to move from Germany to Amsterdam to take the next step in my career. I worked in a quite female-dominated environment, and consulting life was a big adjustment at first, mostly dominated by men. It was risky to leave everything behind and start over, but it was worth it! Stepping out of my comfort zone has provided me with the opportunity to grow and has helped me to embrace the new challenges.
4. Is there one person you could attribute a big piece of your success?
During my studies, I worked for the Marketing department of Starbucks Germany, and I believed my employer at that time had a significant impact on my career. She was a strong and successful woman and part of the company’s leadership team. She displayed confidence, leadership and accomplishments. And what impressed the most is her incredible skill in balancing family life and her career. She inspired, challenged and influenced me. Her leadership style had a great impact on the path I took. I believe it is important for women who start their career to have a woman in a leadership position as a role model or as a mentor.
