How is the marcus evans culture unique when it comes to providing opportunities to women?

I think marcus evans is a great company to work for, with strong business ethics and a great corporate culture that is truly inclusive not just in terms of gender, but also nationality and age. My career at marcus evans started after a long break (almost four years), where I had fully dedicated myself to parenthood. I started off with some self-doubts, but was always supported by the team and management of all levels at every step of my journey. This led me to progress from online event manager to head of the online events department in just two and a half years. It is a great example of how the marcus evans environment encourages growth and brings the best out of people. The winner is he who wins over his fears, laziness, and lack of confidence. Once you get out of your comfort zone, the sky becomes your only limit.

Which women have inspired you the most professionally and personally? How?

There are many inspiring people worth mentioning (if I had unlimited space) and I am grateful for being so lucky with the people I have met in my life. I will highlight just three women who had the most impact on me. My mum's enthusiasm, positive attitude and belief in finding the best solution no matter what played a big role in shaping me as a person. My first manager Natalia Bystrova's strong business ethics, and her priceless lessons in Excel became the foundation of my professional development. The previous head of the online department, Claudia Ewart, inspired me with her piece of wisdom that real life starts when you get out of your comfort zone. Since then, I make sure not to get too comfortable with where I am, and I always challenge myself with new goals to achieve.

What does "great leadership" mean to you? What key traits do you value the most?

I always make a distinction between a manager and a leader, although they share common attributes. A good manager is someone who looks over business processes, guides the team, protects it, supports everyone's continued development in order to achieve the business goals of the entire company, and is someone you need to follow to deliver your part in the bigger picture. Meanwhile a leader is someone inspiring, charismatic, someone you want to follow and be like. 

In my view, great leadership is the combination of a good manager with strong leadership qualities, which include a good understanding of business processes and ethics, a strong life position, human orientation, positivity, inspiration, the ability to see people's talents and give them an opportunity to shine.

What does gender equality mean to you?

For me, gender equality means appreciating the differences between genders and providing equal opportunities to both. It is important not to look at everyone in the same way or in a particular way, giving an advantage to the 'discriminated' group, but to appreciate each individual's special qualities. Each person is like a diamond with limitless facets. Leaders need to shine a light on as many of them as possible. I believe the leader's role is to be that 'light' for the team members, regardless of their gender, age or nationality, to help them reveal their talents and shine to their fullest.