Joana, please describe your responsibilities at Xella.

My team and I deal with all legal issues that arise in the countries where Xella operates. In concrete terms, this means that I analyze legal issues, make risk assessments, identify different legal solutions and make complex legal explanations understandable for the business. At the same time, I see myself as a source of inspiration and a reliable partner. I actively communicate with my colleagues in the national companies as well as in our headquarters in Duisburg and offer my team and myself as legal advisors for projects.
You could also say that I am a pathfinder, making sure that new ideas and products are legally sound. By taking the legal framework into account in the best possible way, we enable the business to put innovations on a secure footing with the least possible risk for the company.

What are you currently working on?

I am currently working on the Supply Chain Due Diligence Act (LKSG), which regulates corporate responsibility for human rights in global supply chains. I am also involved in the review and roll-out of Xella Construction Services in countries such as the Netherlands, Germany and Scandinavia. As soon as we start working with partners in the construction services sector, we need to establish a solid legal framework.
Since joining Xella, I have also been involved in two exciting initiatives in Poland and Romania: "Marketplace" is an online platform that provides a new sales channel for our suppliers in Poland and Romania, while "Building Companion" enables us to build close relationships with contractors, architects and investors.

What role does sustainability play in your work?

I am a member of the ESG Steering Committee and am very involved in sustainability issues. The Supply Chain Due Diligence Act, for example, focuses heavily on social responsibility. In our day-to-day business, we deal with a wide range of environmental issues.

What makes Xella a great place to work for you?

When I see how long some of my colleagues have been here, I would say: "Xella is a good employer" (smiles). And after ten months I can say that Xella is a good fit for me; I really like the way the management is organized with the ExCom function. I particularly appreciate the international orientation, which gives me insights into other regions and allows me to exchange ideas with colleagues from headquarters and local units, which I enjoy very much. And compared to my previous positions in law firms, I find it inspiring to see so many strong women in leadership positions here.

Please give us a brief description of your career!

I studied law in Bonn, did my traineeship in Cologne and then worked in various law firms and a company in the Düsseldorf area. Now I'm with Xella in Duisburg. Or as my family says: "I've moved further and further up the Rhine" (laughs).

What is most important to you in your work environment?

Definitely a positive attitude! Even in stressful times, it's my biggest motivation to approach things with a positive attitude. Equally important to me is collegiality, supporting each other, and that includes coffee breaks with nice colleagues.

How do you spend your spare time?

I love to read, although that's not typical for lawyers in their spare time, because you read so much anyway (laughs). I spend a lot of time with friends and family, and use almost every vacation day to travel, whether it's for a short weekend or a longer trip, such as to South Africa. I like to try new things: that's how I discovered my passion for surfing and this year I went skiing for the first time. Both sports fascinate me because they combine opposites: you need curiosity, courage and concentration to make sure nothing goes wrong. And when you're out on the slopes or on the water, it's just so much fun! And there's such a wonderful sense of peace and tranquility; you're just out of reach (smiles).