Leadership Insights from Barbara Bergmeier – The Power of Mentorship in Automotive Leadership

Mentorship is more than guidance—it's a transformative journey that shapes careers, fosters leadership, and drives change. In our latest Leadership Interview, Barbara Bergmeier, Executive Director of Industrial Operations at JLR, shared her compelling story of mentorship’s profound impact on her career and leadership development.

WATCH THE FULL INTERVIEW HERE

Mentorship: A Personal Journey

Barbara’s mentoring journey began with a blend of informal guidance and structured programs. Initially hesitant about women-only mentorship initiatives, she soon recognised their value in male-dominated industries. Her mentors, many of whom were male, played pivotal roles in boosting her confidence and encouraging her to step into leadership roles. This encouragement became the cornerstone of her leadership philosophy: empowering others to see their own potential.

Barbara emphasised that mentorship is not a one-size-fits-all approach but a tailored journey that evolves over time. She shared how she creatively integrates mentorship into her busy schedule—whether through digital meetings, casual lunches, or even during travel.

Mentorship as a Catalyst for Diversity

Mentorship’s role in promoting diversity was a key theme of the conversation. Barbara highlighted how structured programs at JLR, like the Orbit Project, focus on mentoring underrepresented groups such as Black, American, and Caribbean women, helping them rise to leadership positions. These initiatives not only benefit mentees but also allow mentors to gain fresh perspectives and learn about diverse experiences and cultures.

“We aim for 30% female representation in executive roles by 2030, and mentorship is a critical tool in achieving this,” Barbara explained. She stressed the importance of encouraging women to embrace opportunities and overcome self-doubt, noting that women often hesitate to apply for roles unless they meet all the qualifications, unlike their male counterparts.

Reverse Mentoring: A Two-Way Street

One of the most enriching aspects of Barbara’s mentoring journey is reverse mentoring. Last year, she partnered with a younger mentee, learning about diverse cultural perspectives, modern technologies, and new ways of thinking. She described these experiences as stepping out of her comfort zone, which she believes is essential for personal and professional growth.

“Feeling uncomfortable is a sign of learning,” Barbara said, underscoring the importance of being open to new ideas, especially from younger generations.

Practical Insights for Mentors and Mentees

Barbara shared invaluable advice for both mentors and mentees. For mentors, she emphasised setting clear goals at the outset to ensure a productive relationship. For mentees, she encouraged self-advocacy—communicating ambitions and seeking guidance proactively. She also addressed the challenges of mismatched mentoring relationships, advising openness and the courage to realign when necessary.

Mentorship’s Broader Impact

For Barbara, mentorship transcends the workplace. It’s about creating ecosystems of support and collaboration that extend across industries and geographies. Her goal is to connect mentees to a larger network, fostering relationships that outlast formal mentorship programs.

Final Reflections

Barbara concluded the session by reflecting on how mentorship energises her, describing it as one of the most rewarding aspects of her day. She extended heartfelt gratitude to the allies and networks that make these programs successful, emphasising that advancing diversity is a collective effort.

Her closing message was clear:

“Mentorship is not just about guidance—it's about creating opportunities, sharing knowledge, and building a better future.”

Join the Conversation Inspired by Barbara’s insights? The Women Automotive Network offers a mentorship program starting in February 2024. Whether you're looking to be a mentor or mentee, this program is a gateway to growth and empowerment. Applications are open until the end of January—don’t miss the chance to transform your career.

Book your place to become a mentee before Jan 24th HERE

Apply to be a mentor and find out more about the program HERE