JAKARTA - Gender gaps at the managerial level are still a major challenge in the Indonesian workforce. Although women's contributions are increasingly significant, structural barriers often make working mothers difficult to penetrate the executive ranks. In response to this phenomenon, the momentum of Mother's Day 2024 is a reminder to the industry about the importance of an inclusive work ecosystem.
Data shows that women's perspectives are not just complementary, but a key to innovation, especially in the daily necessities industry. This is seen in the trend of research and development (R&D) which is now beginning to involve many local female talents to lead strategic positions.
The Importance of Women's Perspective in Innovation In the health and hygiene industry, women's involvement at the decision-making level has proven to have a direct impact on product quality. Yulia Kristina, a practitioner in the field of Research & Development (R&D), revealed that women's empathy towards daily problems - such as comfort during hot weather or concerns while doing activities - is the basis for the birth of the right technical solutions.
"The insight from women who are directly faced with specific needs is crucial to create truly solutive innovations. This is not just about empathy, but about the functionality and competitiveness of products in the market," said Yulia.
Key to Sustainability: Training and Support System The transformation of female employees to managerial positions does not happen instantly. Two main factors are needed: a structured competency development program and a solid support system.
Several global manufacturing companies in Indonesia, such as PT Uni-Charm Indonesia Tbk, are now aggressively encouraging local employees to occupy leadership positions through the "Love Your Possibilities" philosophy. This program includes global-level leadership training and technology transfer, which enables local talent to compete internationally.
Director of PT Uni-Charm Indonesia Tbk, Sri Haryani, emphasized that supporting women's careers is part of achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
"We are preparing a forum where female employees in executive positions can share experiences to motivate the younger generation. The focus is on developing a leadership mindset regardless of background, in order to create better social value," explained Sri.
Dual Role Balance For working mothers, the biggest challenge remains balancing domestic and professional roles. Women's success in breaking into executive positions depends heavily on a cooperative office culture and family support at home.
The integration between pro-women corporate policies and supportive social environments is believed to be the new standard for the industry in the future. By providing equal growth space, the unlimited potential of working mothers can become a driving force for national economy and innovation.
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