Marta Van Damme-Pilzys is the Global Strategy Portfolio Execution Leader at Cargill, based in Amsterdam.

Over a 24-year tenure at the international food corporation, Marta has successfully managed transformative process optimization initiatives to enhance efficiency and effectiveness. She’s also a member of topvrouwen.nl, an initiative to support greater diversity in Dutch boardrooms.

In your opinion, how can leaders create diverse teams?

Leaders can create diverse teams by hiring people with different and complementary skills.

Empower them to succeed and fail, as mistakes are learning opportunities. Be humble, open, and transparent. Treat everyone equally, but address underperformance promptly. Create a safe and enjoyable environment where people feel valued and can grow.

From your perspective, what opportunities does the Dutch business environment offer to employees at Cargill?

The Netherlands offers a variety of talents and innovative thinking. It's a great place for business due to clear regulations and a collaborative environment. The Dutch are creative problem-solvers, and the country is favourable for investment.

You’ve progressed at Cargill throughout 24 years. What risks have you taken to reach the level you’re at today?

Taking risks involves embracing change. Moving to the Netherlands was a bold move, especially with language barriers and managing an older team at the start of your career.

It's important to recognize your capabilities and take opportunities, even if they push you out of your comfort zone. Always be yourself and know yourself. Think big, start small, and execute fast is what keeps me moving forward!

You transitioned from Finance into a Transformation role with financial aspects. When did you decide to make that move and what was it like for you?

In 2014, one of our Managing Directors asked if I wanted to help drive Transformation. He saw my potential and believed in my capabilities. This opportunity - working with an external consultant - was a game-changer. It included many of hours of intense internal training, expanding my knowledge beyond Finance to the entire business.

Initially, I was insecure, but diving into the role helped me grow rapidly. This experience pushed me out of my comfort zone and allowed me to oversee Commercial, Procurement, and Production. It was a huge opportunity that connected my financial expertise with broader business insights.

Embrace such challenges - they are the key to growth and transformation.

How do you see the role of a global Transformation & Strategy leader changing with the advent of AI and automation?

AI and automation are revolutionizing how we analyze data and manage businesses. They help us identify issues and opportunities faster, bringing us closer to market trends.

While some jobs will be replaced, new roles will emerge to manage AI. Follow the innovation and adjust smartly and smoothly.

Investing in technology and upskilling employees is crucial. Embrace this change - it's the future, and it will make us more effective and innovative.

Sustainability is another hot topic. I’m interested to hear about the main challenges that Cargill faces regarding sustainability.

Cargill focuses on reducing its environmental footprint, investing in green energy, and ensuring ethical practices in its supply chain. Collaboration with our customers, farmers, and other companies and transparency are key to addressing sustainability challenges.

In your experience, how do you ensure that your strategic decision-making aligns with both the company's values and the market demands?

Align decisions with company values, such as feeding the world sustainably. Adjust the portfolio to meet the market needs by reducing sugar levels, as an example.

Strong values guide daily choices and ensure long-term success.

What are some of the main values that you share with the company?

At Cargill, our word is our bond. We put people first, embrace accountability, and foster a sense of ownership.

Cargill is integral to our daily life. You might not know, but you start and finish a day with Cargill (for example, the ingredients in your toothpaste). Being part of a private company that impacts the world so profoundly is truly inspiring.

*Please Note: Marta was the Global Strategy Portfolio Execution Leader at time of recording.

Thank you to Marta for speaking to Bradley Saywell, Consultant in our Finance & Accountancy recruitment division in the Netherlands.

Views and opinions contained within our Executive Interviews are those of the interviewee and not views shared by EMEA Recruitment.