LEADERSHIP STRATEGY
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and passionately want to work here . While some countries talk about having quotas for females , I disagree with this because I ’ ve been working for a long time and would hate to think I got my job because I was female and had to meet a quota . I want to deserve the role I have . I think after 30 years , Cisco is definitely my home from that perspective because of the culture , the caring nature that we have , not just for people but the community .”
Cultural sensitivity is important in finding appropriate solutions . “ In Japan we have the most women on maternity leave and we offer flexibility on their return . You can ’ t just have childcare facilities at the office because you can ’ t take a baby on the train in Japan . Other countries have state childcare which is great for them , but not how it is for everyone else .” Personally , Batka feels fortunate to be based in Singapore where domestic help is commonplace . “ I don ’ t know if I could do my job without that support – I have a nine-and-ahalf-year-old son and my husband runs his own small business . It really does vary in such a diverse region ,” she adds .
A SAGE MENTOR Batka is also an active career mentor . “ Sometimes it ’ s just a conversation . Usually , especially when I talk to females , they know what they need to do , they just need someone to listen and help reassure them .” When Batka was promoted last year , Irving Tan , Cisco ’ s then president of APJ ( who is now
“ All we can do is lead by example . A lot of companies talk about diversity , but Cisco truly believes and demonstrates it ”
— Vicki Batka , President , Partnerships , APAC and Japan , Cisco
JULY 2018