Raising the bar for customer success

March 8 is International Women's Day, a global day celebrating the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women.  In celebration of this important day as well as Women’s History Month, we are kicking off a blog series spotlighting the strong, talented women of Itron. First, we caught up with Manuela Benz, portfolio account manager for heat and allocation, who is located in Germany. Check out our conversation:

What is your role at Itron and what was your pathway to that position?

I am the sales manager for heat and allocation wholesales in Germany and Austria. After 12 years of assisting three sales managers for this area, as my original focus was to take care of my daughter, I was offered the position of sales manager in 2018. At that time, I was in a family situation to accept the position with thanks. Professionally, I was well prepared, as I had insights into all areas of the company and the position over many years.

What made you pursue a career in the tech/energy/utility field and what is the path you followed?

I completed my commercial training at Allmess, one of the largest industrial companies in the region. After studies and other activities, I returned to my home region and thus to Allmess in 2001. The product portfolio of Allmess in the field of energy measurement is on a very good way environmentally and with its constant innovations very future-oriented.

What has been your experience as a woman in a male-dominated field?

Within Allmess/Itron I have only had good experiences, with great and friendly support as well as complete acceptance from all colleagues. As a woman, I see some things from a different perspective, from which the entire team can benefit. Externally, I had to make the experience of first proving myself as a woman...even my body size of 1.84m (6 feet) was not tall enough. Being completely accepted and trusted by customers I could only achieve by convincing figures, data and facts.

How have things changed – or not – since you began your career?

I hope that I have not changed personally. A respectful and friendly relationship has developed with former superiors, I have retained my trust-based relationship with colleagues but have nevertheless fully arrived in the new position. Professionally, many things have changed:  taking decisions with greater implications, facing new challenges, responsibility and thus fighting for the employees and the company to achieve the best success for everyone. I have seen my own strengths and weaknesses more clearly.

What should we do to help more women get a seat at the management table?

I believe that everyone should be judged, be hired and be paid according to their performance, regardless of gender. Women in management positions are certainly more committed, motivated and successful if they are not a "quota woman."

What advice would you offer aspiring women interested in tech?

I would advise everyone to focus on their goal and remain authentic. In 2022, gender should not be a criterion for hiring. Technically interested, young people make a very good decision to be hired at Itron, as Itron promotes young people and is a worldwide leader in technology company.