Lübeck, Januar 2025 – We interviewed Nicol Tomaschewski, Head of Region Asia at CREMER ERZKONTOR, about her career path as a female manager in the raw materials industry and the challenges that come with it. She talks about the measures and support needed to promote gender equality in leadership positions and shares her advice with women pursuing a career in the world of raw materials.

1. Nicol, you’ve been with CREMER ERZKONTOR for two years now. Could you tell us a bit more about your background?

I am a sinologist and have being dealing with China for 20 years. I have studied and worked in China. As Head of Region Asia, I am now responsible not only for China, but for the entire Asia-Pacific region, especially India. I got to know CREMER ERZKONTOR as a supplier of raw materials from China. At that time I was working for a magnesia producer and as sales manager I was looking for customers in the European market. Magnesia is one of the most important raw materials in the refractory industry, so I quickly came into contact with CREMER ERZKONTOR. We are one of the most renowned trading companies in the trade of raw materials for the refractory industry.

2. The raw materials industry is (still) a male domain. What kind of challenges did you have to face on your way to becoming a manager?

There are few women in the raw materials industry, and even fewer in management positions. This is very obvious at trade fairs and congresses. Although there were some hurdles when I first entered the industry, as I had to build a network, I was quickly accepted. You have to know your strengths and be authentic.
The path to becoming a manager worked well for me because I had a lot of support from a very talented and qualified team. Colleagues have also shared their knowledge with me from their many years of experience. Knowledge management is therefore an issue that I am very passionate about.

3. Have there been particular role models who have inspired you? If so, why?

I still have role models today. Those who inspired me shared the common values of empathy, authenticity, continuous learning, vision and the courage to change. They taught me not only practical skills, but also a way of thinking that sees leadership as a dynamic and interpersonal process that goes far beyond mere management tasks. These influences have motivated me to become an authentic and compassionate leader myself and to take responsibility for my team and my decisions seriously.

4. What qualities or skills have helped you to establish yourself in a leadership position?

Being in a leadership position requires a mix of different qualities and skills that need to be constantly developed. Strong communication skills, flexibility and team orientation are just some of the key components that have helped me to successfully establish myself as a manager. Resilience is also an important quality to have, as setbacks are inevitable.
Continuous learning and striving for improvement are crucial for long-term success.

5. What measures do you think are crucial for promoting gender equality in management positions?

Promoting gender equality in leadership requires a holistic strategy that includes structural change and equal opportunities. It is also important to promote the visibility of women in the economy and the world of work. Women can participate in expert bodies on an equal footing with men and make their contribution to society. Every female leader should take seriously her responsibility to empower the next generation of women and to take other women with her as she rises through the ranks.

6. What support have you received at CREMER ERZKONTOR and what conditions have you found particularly helpful?

Thanks to a combination of flexible working hours and working from home, CREMER ERZKONTOR gives me the support I need to be able to concentrate fully on my work. There are also opportunities to work part-time. Not only as a woman, but also as a mother of two small children, my circumstances are different from those of people without children. Through an inclusive and family-friendly corporate culture, companies can create a working environment in which women – and especially mothers – have the same opportunities as their male colleagues to rise to leadership positions. We have a very modern organisation and a P&O department that recognises the different needs and challenges of its employees and provides them with the necessary resources.

7. What advice do you have for women considering a career in the raw materials industry?

Women who want to pursue a career in the raw materials industry should rely on their professional expertise and self-confidence. They should not be afraid to bring their own perspective to the table, as diversity of ideas drives innovation.
Building a network and finding mentors to support you is also very valuable. By being willing to take responsibility and risks, women can establish themselves as valuable leaders, just like their male counterparts. They should not wait for the perfect opportunity or believe that they have to meet every qualification. My tip: Be brave and take on challenges outside your comfort zone!