SINGAPORE – With a career that spans over two decades in the chemicals and materials industry, Rebecca Liebert, Global CEO of Lubrizol, has witnessed firsthand the progress—and the challenges—that women face in traditionally male-dominated fields. In a recent interview during her visit to Singapore, she shared her insights on how Lubrizol is working to ensure gender equality and the representation of women at all levels of the organization.
Liebert’s appointment as CEO marked a significant milestone not only for Lubrizol but also for the industry at large. As one of the few female CEOs in the chemicals sector, Liebert understands the importance of representation. “I’ve been the first woman in many roles throughout my career, and I know how vital it is to have female role models in leadership positions,” she said. Her leadership at Lubrizol is a testament to the company’s commitment to gender diversity.
Under Liebert’s leadership, Lubrizol has made significant strides in promoting gender equality within the organization. The company has implemented policies and programs aimed at increasing the representation of women, particularly in senior leadership roles. “We are very focused on gender diversity and making sure we have women in leadership roles across the globe,” Liebert stated. These efforts are not just about fulfilling quotas but are part of a broader strategy to harness diverse perspectives that drive innovation and business success.
Empowering Women in STEM
Liebert is a strong advocate for women in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics), recognizing the challenges women face in these fields. “There’s still a significant gender gap in STEM, and it’s something that we at Lubrizol are actively working to close,” she noted. The company has partnered with various educational institutions and organizations to encourage more women to pursue careers in science and engineering. Lubrizol’s initiatives include mentorship programs, scholarships, and outreach efforts aimed at inspiring the next generation of female leaders in STEM.
At the heart of Lubrizol’s approach to gender equality is the creation of an inclusive workplace culture where all employees feel valued and empowered to succeed. Liebert emphasized that fostering such a culture requires more than just policies—it requires a commitment from leadership and active participation from all employees. “We’ve established resource groups and initiatives that support women and other underrepresented groups within the company,” she explained. These groups not only provide support networks but also contribute to the company’s overall strategy on diversity and inclusion.
Liebert also highlighted the importance of engaging male allies in the pursuit of gender equality. “Gender equality is not just a women’s issue; it’s a business issue,” she said. By involving men in conversations about diversity and inclusion, Lubrizol ensures that gender equality is seen as a collective goal. This approach has helped foster a more supportive environment where everyone is invested in the success of their colleagues, regardless of gender.
Challenges and Opportunities
While significant progress has been made, Liebert acknowledged that challenges remain. “There are still barriers that women face, particularly in industries like ours,” she noted. However, she is optimistic about the future, believing that continued focus on education, mentorship, and policy change will lead to even greater strides in gender equality.
Liebert’s vision for Lubrizol is one where gender equality is not just a goal but a reality. “We’re not there yet, but we’re on the right path,” she concluded. As Lubrizol continues to grow and evolve, the company’s commitment to gender equality will remain a cornerstone of its success.
Rebecca Liebert’s leadership at Lubrizol is a powerful example of how companies can champion gender equality and create opportunities for women at all levels of the workforce. By fostering an inclusive culture, empowering women in STEM, and engaging male allies, Lubrizol is paving the way for a more equitable future in the workplace.
