We're a global leader in premium drinks, the exciting consumer products space. 200 brands. 180 countries. Diageo
Q. Tell us about your background and path to Diageo.
Recently, we had the pleasure of hosting a thought-provoking and inspiring webinar on the topic of 'Women in Commercial'. Our panelists, Vedrana Sobotincic, Head of Innovation Commercialisation, Irene Bestorio, Country Manager Iberia Beer, Paulina Sojat, Country Manager CEE, Vera Nikou, Head of Customer Marketing, and Dora Fejes, Senior Brand Manager, shared their personal experiences and insights on the topic. You can check out a recording of the webinar and see a summary of the talking points below.
An overview of Diageo Eastern Europe
At Diageo Eastern Europe, we take immense pride in our dynamic and diverse team spread across 55 countries in Europe, Central Asia, the Middle East, and North Africa, spanning six time zones. Our headquarters in Budapest, with over 120 Diageo EE employees and 1,000+ in partner companies, serves as a hub for innovation and collaboration. With colleagues situated in various European locations, including Zagreb, Bulgaria, Romania, Spain, and France, our mission is to bring our exceptional brands to over 448 million consumers.
Diversity is not just a characteristic; it's the essence of our success. The unique backgrounds of our team members create a rich tapestry of experiences that lead to unparalleled personal and professional growth opportunities. This sentiment echoes through the inspiring career journeys shared by some of our exceptional women at Diageo.
Meet the panelists
Vedrana Sobotincic, our panel host, initiates the conversation, inviting Irene Besterio to shed light on her remarkable 16-year career with Diageo. Irene's journey started in finance, transitioning through marketing and global sales, showcasing her adaptability and determination. Her recent move to the Beer team after 16 years in spirits reflects Diageo's commitment to supporting individual growth and development.
Irene emphasises the importance of flexibility, a core value at Diageo that allowed her to balance a successful career while navigating the responsibilities of motherhood. Her strategic career moves during maternity breaks highlight how women can shape their professional paths with the right company support.
Next, Vera Nikou shares her experience, having joined Diageo 3.5 years ago as an Activation Manager. Her background in consumer healthcare added a unique perspective to her role. Vera's journey involves evolving responsibilities in brand marketing and the commercial team, reflecting the dynamic nature of Diageo. She underscores the significance of an open mind, a growth mindset, and resilience when navigating diverse cultures within the organization.
Paulina Sojat, Country Manager for Central & Eastern Europe for Beer, exemplifies Diageo's commitment to fostering talent. Paulina's passion for commercial roles and her mantra of growth has propelled her through exciting career trajectories within and outside Diageo. She advocates the importance of continuous learning, as evidenced by her commitment to self-development.
Dora Feyes, our brand marketing representative, brings a fresh perspective to the panel. With five years in marketing and a focus on innovation, Dora highlights the opportunities Diageo provides for trying out new ideas and collaborating with talented individuals. Diageo's culture of embracing innovation aligns with Dora's passion for marketing.
People in Diageo are very open-minded, supportive, and inclusive
As the conversation delves into challenges, the panel emphasises the significance of a growth mindset, mentorship, and support networks. Paulina candidly shares her experience with imposter syndrome, urging women to stand together, celebrate successes, and support one another. The discussion touches on the importance of gender bias awareness and Diageo's commitment to fostering an inclusive environment.
The conversation takes an introspective turn as the women share personal advice for their younger selves and insights for those considering a career at Diageo. Vera encourages embracing confidence and not fearing mistakes, highlighting the importance of enjoying the learning process. Paulina emphasises the value of resilience and the need to view careers as marathons rather than sprints.
In closing, the panel collectively echoes the sentiment that at Diageo, success is not just about personal accomplishments but the shared journey of a team that values each other. Diageo stands as a testament to the power of diversity, inclusion, and a supportive culture that empowers women to thrive in their careers.
Being aware of our gender bias is the first step. If we're not aware, there's no way that we can overcome them
To those considering a career at Diageo, the resounding advice is to align personal values with the company's ethos, leverage passion, and embrace the enriching journey of personal and professional growth in a global and inclusive environment. Diageo is not just a workplace; it's a platform where individuals flourish, carve their paths, and contribute to the success of a vibrant and diverse community.