The L’OCCITANE Group celebrates the voices of its female employees worldwide for International Women’s Day

From 8 to 31 March, the Group will join the theme #ChooseToChallenge to highlight the stories of the women raising their hands high, showing that together it is possible to build an inclusive world.
International Women’s Day is a global event celebrating the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women. In 2021, the Group invited its female employees from all around the globe to share what they choose to challenge.

‘I choose to challenge stereotypes that suggest women don’t make good leaders. At the L’OCCITANE Group, we have regions, brands and departments led by strong women. In total, 87% of the Group’s employees are women, and three of our six brands are led or were co-founded by women. I’m proud of these achievements and we need to continue in this same direction.’
- Claire Viano, General Manager for Melvita in France and Belgium

‘I choose to challenge the idea of women’s rivalry in the workplace, as well as any prejudices regarding women and motherhood. I also seek to show that women in leadership positions can be both assertive and empathetic, demonstrating a sense of sisterhood and creating a healthy environment.’
- Rafaelle Oliveira, Store Manager for L’OCCITANE au Brésil in Brazil

As part of the initiative, they also shared their hopes and dreams for the future of the beauty industry and what they believe to be the Group’s role in helping build that future.

‘As a woman in the beauty industry, I challenge the notion that diversity is impossible to achieve now. We are on the cusp of something spectacular and I challenge those who oppose that possibility. I believe the Group’s role is to determine, empower and guide the direction of the workplace – and to make this a priority.’
- Dawn Speaks, North American Empowerment Officer for LimeLife by Alcone in the US

‘I grew up with strong women around me, and I’m lucky that at L’OCCITANE I’m surrounded by empowered, inspiring women. We must stand up for what’s right.’
- Jillian Rebeira, Senior Learning & Development Executive for L’OCCITANE in Australia

‘I’ve been with L’OCCITANE for 25 years. I’ve always admired the women who produce shea butter in Burkina Faso. Over the years, L’OCCITANE has built a fair partnership with them to promote their autonomy and leadership. My dream is for L’OCCITANE to support even more women so they can grow their businesses and pursue their ambitions.’
- Emilie Pablo, Store Manager for L’OCCITANE en Provence in Switzerland

A challenged world is an alert world, and from challenge comes change. These inspiring stories demonstrate the path to diversity and inclusion and the role of leadership in creating opportunities and pushing for equality.

‘I believe that, as a woman, you don’t need to act like a man to be a leader; you can be a great leader on your own terms. I speak openly about the challenges I face. Acknowledging that I didn’t get here by being perfect helps women see leadership roles as more attainable. I’m inspired by the strong women of the Group who strive for success every day.’
- María Carolina Villanueva, General Manager for L’OCCITANE in Mexico

‘I believe the Group can help women achieve a good work–life balance. I was proud when the game-changing step forward with parental leave was announced.’
- Hélène Goetzelmann, Senior Marketing Director for L’OCCITANE in Switzerland

‘We can build a fairer and more inclusive world if we understand and have empathy for one other. We all define ourselves by many different facets, not just gender. Respect for each other’s individuality is key to a more inclusive workplace.’
- Raphaëlle Archambeaud, Group CSR Director based in Switzerland.

The series will be posted on the L’OCCITANE Group’s LinkedIn account, starting on 8 March.
Follow us here : LinkedIn

Let’s all choose to challenge!