Qualifications and performance count for us, but not the much-discussed women's quota. We employ women in almost all of our departments and in various positions, and the proportion is well over 30 percent - in an industry that tends to be male-dominated.
The company is led by both men and women. Together with Hubert Weimann and Henning Simon, Bettina Waldecker has been at the helm of the company for 11 years. Bettina Waldecker says: “The balanced team composition of men and women contributes to a positive work environment. Furthermore, discussions and approaches in mixed-gender teams lead to good results and creative, productive solutions. We’re very pleased about that.” Nevertheless, the so-called “women’s quota” is not a guideline for us. Hubert Weimann, Managing Director, says: “We hire the person whose qualifications and performance are a good fit for us. It doesn’t matter what gender the applicant is.” Accordingly, women demonstrated significantly better qualifications for apprenticeships: three out of five apprentices are women. Women also work in areas traditionally dominated by men. For example, Stephanie Urban, a warehouse logistics specialist, ensures a “good mix” in the warehouse. In the Research & Development department, women hold the “upper hand” at over 60 percent. A comparatively large number of women work not only at Silikal in Mainhausen but also in our international offices: Schvonne Choo heads Silikal Asia Bhd, one of Silikal major Asian Silikal—and has been doing so successfully for 7 years. Her team includes additional female support. Female employees also hold positions of responsibility in the Indian office and in Switzerland.
Anyone who has known us for a long time will have noticed the conspicuously high proportion of women: either as a female voice on the phone or when visiting companies and trade fairs.