Meet Hania Glinka, Production Director at Ikano Industry, who believes that strong teams, curiosity and the courage to challenge the status quo are what truly drive results. In a fast-paced manufacturing environment, where decisions often need to be made quickly and responsibility is shared across teams, leadership is about much more than processes and performance.

It’s about people.

From engineer to Production Director

Working with processes and people has been my passion for many years. I started my career as a production engineer, later moved into quality engineering, and then worked as a Kaizen Manager.

It was when I became a Production Manager – the person directly responsible for results – that things really clicked for me. That’s when I realised that all those “nice-sounding theories” are actually very practical tools for everyday work: developing teams, improving processes and delivering results.

Manufacturing has a way of verifying theory very quickly. Following this path eventually led me to the role of Production Director. Today I have an even bigger opportunity to develop teams, optimise processes, implement strategy and continue growing as a leader myself.

“Women are not technical”?

Manufacturing is still often seen as a male-dominated industry, and yes – stereotypes still exist. There is still this idea that “women are not technical.” Whatever that is supposed to mean.

I have always enjoyed mathematics and technical subjects and I studied engineering at a technical university. I never believed that my brain was somehow wired differently just because I’m a woman. So I usually approached those situations with a bit of humour. The best response was simply doing the job well.

I have always been quite curious and persistent. If a problem wasn’t properly analysed or a solution didn’t work, I wouldn’t just let it go. I also often volunteered for projects that others preferred to avoid – and those experiences turned out to be some of the most valuable ones in building my knowledge and skills. Sometimes the projects nobody wants are exactly the ones that teach you the most.

Leading production means connecting many dots

Managing production on a large scale means constantly connecting the dots – between processes, people and business results. An open mind to new solutions is crucial, as well as the courage to challenge the status quo. But leadership in manufacturing is also very much about people. Listening carefully. Sharing knowledge. Creating space where team members feel comfortable speaking up and contributing their ideas. A strong production leader creates an environment where people can grow – where there is room for independence, learning from mistakes, drawing conclusions and being creative

It also requires resilience. Production environments are dynamic and complex, and many topics move forward at the same time. Staying calm and focused in that environment is essential.

Supporting women in the workplace

The most important thing is to look at people through the lens of their competencies. It’s also important to recognise that there are many different personality types and leadership styles. Moving away from stereotypes about what a “real leader” should look like can make a big difference.

Talking to people, recognising their talents and achievements, and helping them build confidence and a sense of ownership are also incredibly valuable.

At the same time, women are often still caught between different expectations – on one hand the role of a “wife and mother,” and on the other the idea of the “independent career woman.” But pressure of any kind is not real freedom of choice.

That’s why creating environments where people can genuinely choose their own path – without stereotypes or expectations – matters so much.

What companies can do

Organisations play an important role here. Recognising people’s natural strengths and potential early on is key. From there, companies can support development through targeted training, challenging projects and opportunities that allow people to grow into leadership roles. Talent needs the right environment to develop.

What makes a great leader?

A great leader knows how to both support and hold people accountable.

They create an open environment where people feel comfortable sharing ideas and opinions, while at the same time maintaining clear principles and standards within the team. A good leader leads by example, expects a lot not only from others but also from themselves, steps in when the team needs support and takes responsibility for decisions and results.

Leadership is not about having all the answers. It’s about creating a team that can find the best answers together.

Why diversity makes teams stronger

Diverse teams are usually more creative and often more effective. Different perspectives help teams see problems from multiple angles and make better decisions.

Interestingly enough, mixed teams also tend to bring a bit more humour into everyday work – and sometimes a little fewer “dramatic moments.” Stronger relationships also develop naturally in diverse teams, which makes it easier to face challenges and find solutions together.

Production is about people

In the end, production is about results. But first and foremost, it’s about the people who create them every day. Strong teams, open conversations and the courage to think differently are what make real progress possible. And sometimes, a little sense of humor helps too.