Digital SHEro Katharina: On leadership in consulting and the art of staying true to yourself

“It’s all about being authentic and going your own way.”

As Managing Consultant and Team Lead in the area of Supply Chain Management and Digital Transformation, Katharina Breitenmoser has been part of valantic in Munich for over eight years. She didn’t always plan to end up in consulting, but rather found her way there by chance. In this interview, she openly shares her experiences and the challenges she has overcome on her professional journey.

Katharina, tell us a bit about yourself. How did your IT journey begin?

I entered the IT industry by chance. After my studies in business administration with a focus on operations, I was looking for a position that matched my academic background. I started my career at valantic and combined consulting and IT with logistics and supply chain management. The latter was exactly my focus at university.

What were your expectations of the consultation and what was the reality?

There is often the cliché about consulting that you are constantly on the go and have no free time. That never really appealed to me. I didn’t want to be forced into a role that didn’t suit me. At valantic, I found an atmosphere that allowed me to be who I am. This allowed me to always remain true to myself. An aspect that is also important for good customer relationships and has distinguished me as a consultant from the very beginning.

What were your biggest challenges when you started working in supply chain consulting?

The start was exciting, but also challenging. Despite my suitable degree, I had to learn to strengthen my self-confidence, especially as a young woman in an environment that was mainly dominated by male, experienced personalities. I had to learn to hold workshops with authority and speak my mind, even if it wasn’t always easy. It was about gaining a standing and not being unsettled by skeptical comments.

How quickly were you able to take on responsibility in projects?

After just three months, I was sent to a client alone for the first time. I started leading larger workshops after about a year. Taking on responsibility quickly helped me grow and learn.

How do you manage to be successful in consulting?

My success is based on my ability not to get rattled and to focus on helping people through change. I also see myself as a kind of change manager who accompanies people on their journey. I often start a workshop with clients by asking questions about challenges and fears and then work with them to overcome them. Especially when old processes and habits need to be supported by new IT tools.

How have you developed in your role as a manager?

When I started my new management role, I was faced with completely new challenges. I had never managed a team before and had to learn to take on disciplinary responsibility and develop a team. It is important to give every member the opportunity to develop and grow, both professionally and personally. For me, leadership means not only setting guidelines, but also giving freedom. I want the team members to feel comfortable, enjoy their work and stay with us in the long term.

What advice do you have for young women entering the IT field?

I encourage all young women interested in technology or supply chain consulting to forge their own path and not be deterred by stereotypes. It’s important to remain authentic and not to pretend to be someone else. This is the only way to find your unique way in IT and to be successful.

Thank you, Katharina, for the conversation and the valuable insights!