How a heavy industry company from Azerbaijan is empowering women in a male-dominated field

Holcim Azerbaijan – one of the leading manufacturing companies in the country’s construction industry and part of the world’s second-largest cement producer – proved that gender equality and women’s empowerment in leadership positions within a traditionally male-dominated company are not just global commitments but also key drivers of business success.

In March 2021, Holcim became a global signatory to the Women’s Empowerment Principles (WEPs), developed by UN Women and the UN Global Compact Office to guide businesses and the private sector in advancing women’s empowerment. At that time, women held 25 per cent of Board seats, 30 per cent of positions on the Group Executive Committee, and 17 per cent of management roles. Holcim set itself an ambitious target: to raise women’s representation in senior management to at least 25 per cent by 2025.

“I work in a field that deals with the flow of goods, ensuring materials are available in stores and delivered to the right place at the right time. It’s fascinating work. Importing, storing, and delivering building materials to customers is both creative and challenging,” said Shabnam Azizova, Head of Logistics and member of the company’s Management Board, appointed to this role in 2023 following the signing of the WEPs.

In 2022, Holcim Azerbaijan reinforced its commitment by signing the WEPs locally. “At Holcim, equality between women and men is not just the right thing to do - it is also good for business. Empowering women drives innovation, strengthens teams, and improves performance. The seven principles serve as a roadmap to unlock opportunities for everyone,” said HR director Andrey Boroditsky.  

From formal commitment to action

Since joining the WEPs, “Holcim Azerbaijan” has worked to build gender balance and foster a culture of inclusion in a traditionally male-dominated, physically demanding industry. In 2022, the company carried out its first Gender Equality Assessment, achieving a 35 per cent score and identifying areas for improvement.

Following this assessment, Holcim launched a strategic initiative to advance equality: new policies promoting inclusion; stronger career development programs for women; the creation of a “Lean In” network within the company; and equal opportunities at all levels.

“We know that empowerment is not a moment - it’s a mindset. Through our “Lean In” network and broader Women’s Empowerment Program, we are embedding equity across our operations and driving sustainable progress,” said Rena Tahirova, Sustainable Development manager and ambassador of Lean In.

By 2024, “Holcim Azerbaijan” had achieved a 63 per cent score in the WEPs evaluation, marking a significant leap forward and positioning itself as an industry leader in gender equality and diversity.

“Creating favorable working conditions for both women and men and ensuring equal opportunities for professional development are essential to our success,” stated Sergiu Stoicov, CEO of Holcim Azerbaijan. “Our goal is to be the employer of choice - offering equal career prospects, supporting employee initiatives, and implementing sustainable corporate development solutions. We will continue strengthening equality and inclusivity so every employee can reach their full potential.”

“Holcim Azerbaijan’s” journey reflects not only progress within the company but also a broader transformation in Azerbaijan’s construction sector, proving that gender equality and business excellence go hand in hand.