Sanja Pešić, Alma Quattro CEO

As the CEO of a company that operates in an industry traditionally perceived in Serbia as “female dominated”, Sanja Pešić encourages her young colleagues to excel in all areas, including leadership, if they choose to pursue that path

In a world where there is more content but less substance, it is only through unity, support, understanding and exchanges that we can – as both individuals and as a company – create an atmosphere of growth and progress for women and men, and especially future generations, says Sanja Pešić in this open conversation about the role of women in business, as well as opportunities and challenges.

Women account for 63% of Alma Quattro’s management team. Is it correct to say that, for you, this isn’t just about a gender balance, but rather about creating a stimulating working environment and setting an example for others?

It just so happens that women work on themselves more, because they want more and better for themselves and their surroundings. They are consequently increasingly embracing leadership roles without hesitation.

It’s no secret that I actively encourage women to excel in all areas, including leadership, if they see that as their path. Let’s not forget that the industry in which we operate has traditionally been considered a “female” one.

Men are often seen as more individualistic, while women are considered better team players, due to their belief that the best results are achieved through collaboration, sharing ideas and mutual support. Does your experience support this?

— As someone with years of experience in this industry, I must emphasise that being an individualist has its advantages for certain creative or business roles. The problem arises when you try to turn an individualist into a team player, and it is a manager’s responsibility to assess whether that’s realistic and how it might impact both the team and the individual.

Women are more open to discussing even the most difficult topics, taking personal responsibility, and viewing situations from multiple perspectives

I wouldn’t say this is gender-specific, but it’s true that men are often less open to idea-sharing and collaboration. Women, on the other hand, tend to be more flexible, better at adapting and more efficient in overcoming challenges. They are also more willing to have open discussions, even about difficult topics, take personal responsibility and view situations from multiple perspectives.

How do today’s young professionals – your younger colleagues entering the workforce – differ from you when you were starting out?

— I believe women are gradually moving away from the traditionally imposed role of providing a service to others, where their professional aspirations were considered unimportant. Slowly but surely, men are also adapting and accepting women’s roles in this evolving world.

All women are strong in their own ways, but they are today channelling their strength into achieving goals – not just personal achievements, but accomplishments that benefit both their immediate and wider communities. This is their greatest strength and advantage.

We want to succeed in all fields and are willing to pay the price for that, which isn’t insignificant. At the same time, we strive to ensure that everything we do is sustainable and impactful, with an echo that resonates strongly and positively, to the benefit of future generations.

I notice that my younger colleagues are self-aware and confident, but this confidence is fragile due to a lack of experience and support. By helping them build up their experiences and by providing the necessary support, we empower them to achieve meaningful and noble goals, which in turn strengthens their confidence and self-awareness.

These traits then become tools for creating new value.