Sylwia Górska, IKEA Austria: Companies should treat equal pay as a fundamental standard of ethical business practice. As an HR director, I cannot envision a scenario where two individuals in identical roles with comparable experience receive different compensation solely based on gender.

Alexandra Habeler-Drabek: We actively encourage women to apply for next level positions. We take it very seriously creating a pool of candidates, properly balancing the share of women and men. You have to take concrete steps towards a gender balanced and more transparent recruitment process.

Wioletta Januszczyk, Vice President of Medicover: Monolithic structures aren’t effective. That’s why diversity, including in leadership, is so important. When applying solutions, we should also focus on strengthening women’s self-confidence. Mental and cultural change is the toughest to implement.

Marta Życińska, General Director Mastercard Polska: I try to lead in a way that builds a community rather than focusing on oversight. That’s what leadership means to me. I set the direction and leave space for freedom.

Monika Nowak – Toporowicz, CTIO Virgin Media Ireland: I love my work and have no problem taking it home with me. I love my children and have no problem bringing them to work. No one will follow a leader who feels bad about themselves.