Martine Billmann, Marketing Manager, META at Genetec shares; diversity and inclusion, can’t just be about policies on paper, they must translate into real, measurable change
What are your views on this year’s IWD 2025 theme “Accelerate Action”, how can we truly achieve diversity and inclusion in the workplace?
Martine Billmann: “Accelerate Action” is exactly what we need right now. According to the World Economic Forum’s Global Gender Gap Report 2024, it would take 134 years – which is roughly five generations from now or circa 2158 – to achieve full gender parity at the current rate of progress. Diversity and inclusion, therefore, can’t just be about policies on paper, they must translate into real, measurable change.
In the tech sector, where women remain underrepresented, we must move beyond conversations and take tangible actions. Historically, the physical security industry has been male-dominated. At Genetec, we prioritize a fair and inclusive environment where diversity is embraced, respected, and encouraged. We believe that ensuring equal opportunities and eliminating barriers in all aspects of the business is essential to creating a stimulating working environment and building high-performance teams. For example, we take deliberate steps to expand our talent pool. Instead of sourcing exclusively from the security industry, we actively seek professionals with transferable skills from other fields. This approach allows us to broaden our candidate base, bring in diverse perspectives, and ensure that we hire for skills and potential, not just industry background.
Additionally, we prioritize cultural fit, internal training, and professional development to help new hires gain product and industry knowledge. Our commitment is to foster a fair, inclusive, and high-performing workplace—one where diversity is not just welcomed but actively embraced, respected, and encouraged. Ensuring equal opportunities and eliminating barriers at every level of the business is critical to building both an inclusive culture and a stronger, more innovative team.
Can you share your journey into the tech world and what inspired you to pursue this? Where did it all start?
Martine Billmann: My journey into tech started when I first moved to the UAE in 2008. Early on, I realized that I had a penchant for problem-solving, whether that was enhancing customer experiences, or tackling technical hurdles head-on. That understanding allowed me to break into the industry, even when I didn’t see many women in the field. Working at Genetec, I was consistently inspired by the dynamic nature of the field and the company’s ethos in promoting diversity and inclusion across all levels. For instance, Genetec collaborates with organizations that support women in the technology industry. We partner with Social Builder, a non-profit organization that helps women to join the tech industry by recruiting them into their first IT experience.
Who would you consider your role model, someone who constantly inspires you?
Martine Billmann: My biggest inspiration is my mother. Her resilience, problem-solving mindset, and ability to adapt to any challenge have shaped how I approach my life and career. She continues to be an influential figure in my life. She taught me that being confident in your abilities and always leading with empathy and care is your true legacy – as this is what people eventually remember and allows you to stand out in a competitive environment.
Rapid Fire (Let’s get to know you more!)
- Dinner with a famous personality: George Clooney
- One skill you wish you could learn instantly? I wish I could master the piano, but more realistically, to always make a perfect cup of coffee.
- Android or Apple? Apple, of course!
- WhatsApp or Telegram? WhatsApp.
- Phone call or text message/email? Text/email—efficiency first!
- Beaches or Mountains? Mountains—for the views.
- Coffee or Tea? Coffee, always.
- Early Bird or Night Owl? Early bird, only because of the crack-of-dawn school run.
- Books or Movies? Movies — a good rom-com with a side of thriller.
- Winter or Summer? Winter in Dubai and Summer in Provence.
- Online shopping or in-store shopping? Online—convenience is key.
What advice would you give to women starting their careers, aspiring to enter the tech/business field?
Martine Billmann: Believe in your skills, and don’t wait for permission to take up space in the room. When you are starting out in your career, everything can feel intimidating but remember—every expert was once a beginner. Seek mentors, keep learning, and don’t be afraid to challenge the status quo. Most importantly, support other women around you; real progress happens when we lift each other up.
