Leading partnership networks
Karianne Sjøberg, Leader Partner Network Construction
Karianne leads the partner network within the Metier OEC (an RPS company) Construction division and their projects. She works to develop strong partnerships, so that we can always put together the best teams for our clients. She is also a part of the division’s leadership group.
QWhy is your work important, and what does it mean to you personally?
I am proud to be working at Metier OEC. We are an organization consisting of many skilled professionals who believe in our values as a company, and who contribute greatly to positive change and development. My contribution in this is to find, quality assess and manage good relations to our partners so that people and organizations that “sail under our flags” supplies the best quality product possible to our costumer’s projects.
Even though my job is to “sell” consultants, or their skillset as such, it is important for me that I deliver the right person for each role, rather than just selling a position at all cost. In other words, I always think quality over quantity in my job, and I see that its working which is fun. Customers and consultants are happy and satisfied in their projects. This is my way of contributing to sustainable social development – by making sure we get the best person for the job.
Quick Q&A
What career advice would you give your younger self?
Take up more space, and trust that what you do is good. Trust your skills and your gut.
Outside of work, what are you most proud of?
I have two children of who I’ve taught respect for themselves, each other, and people around them. They are aware of their own value and know that their gender shouldn’t decide what how their path in life should look like.
QThis year’s International Women’s Day theme is ‘Break the bias’, aiming for women’s equality and celebrating inclusivity. What is this industry getting right? (And what else could it do?)
Our business is based on skill more than anything else. The experience you have, and your personal qualities are what matters. This triumphs gender – also within construction. In Norway, we are more women than men pursuing higher education. So barriers might be connected to what considerations are made about needs for work-life balance. Metier OEC do go an extra step to make sure any special needs are met here. At the same time, the field of construction on a national level does still have some challenges related to old fashioned views on women – especially on the construction site – that the field needs to overcome.
QDo you have a woman or women you admire?
I don’t really have a specific role model, but I do get really inspired by competent women that I’ve come across and met at work, in my private life or that I read about. They all have a story and unique ways to reflect on life and handle challenges. I take these with me as inspiration for my own development. As an example, right now I’m keeping an eye on Ursula von der Leyen. I don’t necessarily agree with everything she stands for, but she is a wonderfully strong woman.