Could you tell us when you joined TAKRAF Group, explain in a few sentences what your role is, your responsibilities and give us some of your experience?
I joined TAKRAF Group in November 1996, during the early stages of DELKOR’s activities in Chile. From the beginning, my role was to oversee spare parts sales, a responsibility that evolved with the growth of the spare parts department. Over the years, I've not only managed major spare parts sales but also integrated support for our colleagues at TAKRAF Germany, fostering cross-border cooperation and ensuring seamless operations.
What has been your personal highlight at TAKRAF Group and perhaps also outside of work?
One of my most significant achievements at TAKRAF Group has been spearheading a culture of continuous improvement in our service delivery. I've taken great pride in implementing innovative processes and strategies within our department to ensure that we maintain high standards while meeting the diverse needs of our clients. By fostering a collaborative environment and involving the entire team in parts sales, we've not only achieved professional success, but also cultivated a sense of shared accomplishment among the team. It's very rewarding to see our efforts translate into tangible results and to witness the positive impact we have on our clients. Our clients know that we not only sell spare parts for our equipment, but that we provide knowledge and support along with the parts.
On a personal level, I cherish the bonds I've formed with my friends over the years. They've been my pillars of strength, providing unwavering support and companionship through life's ups and downs. These friendships, spanning more than three decades, have enriched my life immeasurably and served as a constant source of comfort and joy. Along with the family my husband and I have built, these friendships are the cornerstone of my personal accomplishments and remind me of the importance of connection and community in both work and life.
What do you enjoy the most about what you do at TAKRAF Group?
What I find most fulfilling about my role is the constant challenge. Every day brings new goals, new parts requests, and new orders to manage. But what really motivates me is the unwavering support I receive from my colleagues. Together, we've built a strong support network that ensures we can rely on each other to effectively serve our customers. As a cohesive team, we've made parts delivery a priority, underscoring our commitment to customer satisfaction.
Why is mining or engineering a stimulating sector for women to enter?
The engineering and mining sectors offer women a captivating landscape to explore, where our unique perspectives and attributes are not only welcomed but celebrated. Our ability to approach projects, meetings, sales and challenges with a different point of view often leads to innovative solutions and is appreciated by our peers. In addition to our technical skills, our emotional intelligence and collaborative nature contribute significantly to the industry, highlighting the tremendous potential for women to thrive in these fields.
If you had to give one piece of advice to a young person on how to enter and succeed in the world of work, and in the mining sector in particular, what would it be?
My advice to young professionals is simple, yet profound: pursue your passion wholeheartedly and give your all to every endeavor. Whether in relationships or at work, putting effort, love, and consideration into your actions can make a world of difference in achieving your goals. In addition, honesty and transparency are paramount; cultivating trust is essential to fostering meaningful connections with colleagues, clients, and stakeholders, laying the foundation for long-term success.
Which woman would you like to sit down to dinner with and why?
I've always admired the renowned Chilean writer and journalist Isabel Allende. Her worldwide recognition, from her explorations in magical realism to her diverse literary contributions, fascinates me. Beyond her literary prowess, Allende's captivating personality shines through her TED Talks and her symbolic participation in the 2006 Winter Olympics. Her commitment to social causes, particularly women's empowerment through her foundation in Sausalito, California, resonates deeply with me. A conversation with her about her experiences, worldview and commitment to making a difference would undoubtedly be enriching and inspiring. I'm sure it would be a memorable and enlightening dinner.
This article is the part of our ongoing series that looks at the incredible women in mining at TAKRAF Group. Stay tuned for inspiring and personal interviews with our international colleagues.
Innovation out of tradition – It pays to talk to a specialist!