Women Leaders in Operations

Go Beyond at dsm-firmenich

Where progress comes to life

At dsm firmenich, advancing women leaders in Operations is a deliberate focus, because inclusive leadership drives stronger teams, better decisions, and lasting impact. Through inclusive hiring, intentional development, and strong succession planning, we’re building a pipeline ready to shape the future. That commitment comes to life through our sponsorship program, where senior leaders actively advocate for women in Operations—opening networks, increasing visibility, and creating access to the people, projects, and platforms that accelerate growth. 

Across sites, regions, and functions, women in Operations help shape how work gets done, —leading teams, driving innovation, strengthening supply chains, and creating cultures where people thrive.

Supportive Growth

There is no single path to leadership in Operations—and that’s intentional.

Many leaders at dsm-firmenich started in one role and grew into others: from intern to site director, from engineering trainee to global leader, from local roles to international careers. Growth is fueled by continuous learning, mobility, and a culture that encourages people to try, learn, and stretch.

“From intern to Site Director, my journey reflects the power of growth, resilience, and opportunity.”


Gisele Palma, Site Director, Taste

Make an impact with purpose

Operations sits at the heart of the business. Every decision—whether on the shop floor, in planning, or in continuous improvement—has a direct impact on customers, communities, and colleagues.

Female leaders in Operations at dsm-firmenich describe their roles as both strategic and deeply personal. They lead with accountability, balancing performance with people, and turning complexity into clarity.

“I love being at the heart of the business. Our decisions in Operations directly impact our products and customers.”


Li Chen, Manager, Global Supply Chain

Creative innovation, every day

Operations is not static—and neither are the careers built here.

From industrialization and technology to planning and process engineering, women in Operations thrive in environments where no two days are the same. It’s a space for problem solvers, system thinkers, and leaders who enjoy turning challenges into solutions.

“Operations is vibrant. There’s always a new challenge or opportunity. We make the products that drive dsm-firmenich’s success.”


Barbel Thouvenot, VP, Global Technology & Industrialization, TTH

Leadership that empowers

Leadership in Operations at dsm-firmenich is grounded in trust, empathy, and collaboration.

With a focus on building strong teams, developing talent, and creating environments where people feel confident to lead change, empowerment isn’t a slogan—it’s how work gets done every day.

“A strong team can win any battle. It motivates people and helps them—and the company—grow.”


Silvia Martinelli, Director Production, Collecchio 

Ready to go beyond?

If you’re looking for a career in Operations where your leadership makes a visible impact—and where your growth is supported every step of the way—there’s a place for you at dsm-firmenich.

Want to do work that matters to millions? Discover your next step with us.

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  • Inclusion and Belonging

    Diverse. Inclusive. Empowering. We champion uniqueness, equal opportunities, and innovation. Join us for a fair, progressive future where everyone thrives. No gender pay gap. Hybrid work flexibility.

  • Why work for dsm-firmenich

    We bring progress to life by combining the essential, desirable, and sustainable. If you’re looking with work with purpose and prospects, this is for you.