As Export & New Business Development Manager and a female leader at Merete, Özlem is responsible for International Sales.
In this key position, she drives the global expansion of our business activities and ensures that our innovative medical technology solutions are successfully represented in international markets.
With her extensive expertise and intercultural background, she opens up new markets, strengthens existing partnerships, and sets a clear example of female leadership in the industry.
In the interview, we asked Özlem about her personal background and how Merete fosters equal opportunities and diversity.
Özlem, tell us a little bit about yourself. Who are you and how did you come to Merete?
I have been living in Germany since 2007; I grew up in Istanbul, Turkey. I came to Germany for a Master’s degree in International Economy and then further developed my professional career here in the field of medical technology within an international environment. Since 2018, I have been with Merete to expand our international business, ensuring that the solutions we offer for patient care—such as our BioBall Adapter Systems—are available worldwide.
Today is International Women’s Day. What does this day mean to you personally?
Even though our society is evolving, some issues, such as gender equality, are still neglected, and there is much work to be done for all of us! Therefore, this day should not only be celebrated by everyone but also serve as a moment of reflection: “What can I, as an individual, contribute to creating a better society in which women have equal opportunities—whether in the professional context (career opportunities, equal pay, etc.), in education (education for girls), or even in private matters (domestic violence, division of roles, etc.)?” I applaud everyone who is committed to this cause, because it benefits society as a whole, and only in this way can it function better.
How does Merete promote women and equal opportunities?
When I started at Merete, my son was only three years old, and I was in a challenging family situation. When a business trip came up, our supervisor, Mrs. Anapliotis, asked me understandingly if I could arrange to participate. As I was informed well in advance, I was able to plan accordingly and make it possible.
Such small gestures are a clear step in the right direction—in my view, they have a more lasting effect than rigid gender quotas. To meet those quotas, women often have to juggle between their roles as mothers in society and as employees in the company, with much higher expectations placed on them. But at Merete, we don’t need gender quotas 😊, because 60% of our employees are women, with 21% holding leadership positions—in total, there is an equal number of women and men in leadership roles. In short, Merete is committed to gender equality, and we live this diversity every day.
What advice would you give to young women who are starting their careers?
I believe it is important for everyone—regardless of whether they are women or men—to receive a good education and continuously expand their skills. But for young women, I would like to offer the following advice: Don’t be afraid to stand up for yourselves! You don’t always have to be nice; you should make sure you have a voice! So, be brave, ask questions, network, and don’t let doubts or societal expectations hold you back.