Empowering Women Leaders: Insights from Enercon Technologies' VP - Head of Business Unit, Sagit Pesach Mualem

In the light of the festive month of March, the world rises to celebrate International Women's Day. At Enercon, we value the contribution of every colleague, and we are committed to building a diverse team. However, we also recognize the importance of creating an inclusive environment where everyone's voice is heard and they can contribute meaningfully. In this aspect, the women of Enercon lead us in power.

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Today, we had the privilege of sitting with?Sagit Pesach Mualem, Enercon's VP and Head of the Power Business Unit. As a leading figure in our company, Sagit brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the table, driving innovation and guiding our team towards success.

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Join us as we shed light on Sagit's remarkable journey, navigating the defense and military sectors while championing diversity and inclusion. We explore Sagit's perspectives on empowering women in tech, fostering an inclusive workplace culture, and navigating challenges in traditionally male-dominated industries.

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"I came to Enercon at the age of 40 after two VP positions." She shares with us. "However, I was looking for a position that would allow a work-life balance since I was a mother of 3, and after years of working long hours in a demanding position. I came to Enercon as a Sales Operation and Customer Support Manager, thinking that a junior position would support my wish for a work-life balance position. I did not consider that I would be bored after only three months."

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So, what led your journey to becoming the VP of the Power Business Unit at Enercon Technologies??

"In 2014, Enercon’s current CEO, who was the company’s VP of Sales at the time, relocated to the US and appointed me as the local sales manager.

As this was my first role in sales, I brought my experience in customer support to the position, which made it easier for me to build. I understand that the world of sales in the defense industry is based on long-term relationships and building trust with your customers.

?The first thing I did was redefine the mode of work. I acted as an Account Manager and supported my customers with every need they had, pre- and post-sale.

Simultaneously with the expansion of Enercon to new regions, and after working a few years in the local market, I was promoted to manage and develop the EMEA & APAC regions.

We created a market penetration plan, built a distribution network, and brought new business and partnerships to the company.

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Enercon grew and developed, adding new products and capabilities to the company’s portfolio.

The process required a structural change that eventually created two business units leading the different product lines: Power and Networking.

After many years in sales, I was given the opportunity to lead the Power Business Unit from A to Z.

As a business unit, we engage with customers, suppliers, R&D, logistics, operations, projects, and sales. Managing these aspects requires us to look at the big picture and navigate the ship, but at the same time, understand and support the day-to-day activities and challenges."

As a woman in a traditionally male-dominated industry, what challenges have you faced, and how have you overcome them?

"Being a woman in our industry requires breaking the glass ceiling, as the work environment is male-oriented. I often find myself as the only woman in the room.

BUT... I see great value in bringing a female perspective to a room full of men.

Over time, I came to realize that bringing a strong sense of emotional intelligence to this position supports my understanding and feelings of the customers' needs, pain points, and challenges."

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Enercon Technologies is committed to diversity and inclusion. How do you foster an inclusive workplace culture within your team and across the company?

"Due to my recognition of the value women bring to business processes, most of my team consists of women. Although the vast majority of our engineers are men, those who lead my projects, operations, and logistics are mainly talented women.

At Enercon, we also see more and more women in key positions who drive business processes and move the company forward."

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In your opinion, what strategies can be implemented to encourage more women to pursue careers in technology and leadership roles?

"It all starts with higher education and gender-based influence on women's choice of profession. The world’s dynamic has changed, and women no longer need to prove their worth. Nowadays, women can achieve whatever they wish for without a need for justification.

At Enercon, we have a vast majority of women working on the production line and many women in managerial positions.

I hope to see more and more female managers in senior positions at Enercon and the defense industry in general."

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As a leader in the defense and military sectors, what opportunities and challenges do you foresee for women in these industries in the coming years?

"The change is here. Increasing numbers of female soldiers fight alongside men, foster higher military positions, and hold significant positions at the top of defense companies' development and management divisions.

Overall, the future for women in the defense industry is bright.

There are significant opportunities for advancement and leadership, but challenges remain.

As a woman leader, I would focus on advocating for policies that promote inclusion, address work-life balance, and ensure a safe working environment. By doing so, we can create a future where women can thrive in all aspects of the defense and military industry."

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On International Women's Day, what message would you like to share that will inspire women leaders and professionals in the technology and defense industries?

"Challenges remain, stereotypes linger, but let them be your fuel.

Remember, the world needs your unique perspective, your analytical mind, and your unwavering commitment to progress.

Never doubt your ability to excel, lead, and make a difference.

Let's continue to push boundaries, break glass ceilings, and inspire the next generation of women to reach for the stars."

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