'Always stay true to yourself. And make sure you have a good babysitter!' On International Women’s Day we speak with Lydia, Operational Director of the Beurs van Berlage. A conversation about her career, female leadership and balancing work with motherhood.
From a historic trading floor to the top of the modern congress world: at the Beurs van Berlage everything revolves around making the right connections. It starts with a team that reflects the world that visits us. We believe that a mix of backgrounds and skills makes us sharper, more creative and more welcoming. This applies to every department, from the front office to the management team. Today, five of the eight management team members are women. This is not a goal in itself, but the result of a culture where talent and character lead the way.
On the occasion of International Women’s Day, we are putting Lydia Baloe in the spotlight. Lydia started her career at the Beurs as a Hospitality Manager and, after several interim management roles in the hospitality industry, returned to the Beurs in her current role as Operational Director. She has now been leading the entire operations department for more than two years.
You have built an impressive career in operational management and hospitality. What originally attracted you to this field?
‘During my Media & Entertainment Management studies, I already had a passion for organizing. Switching quickly, making decisions and the daily dynamics mean that no day in the events industry is ever the same. But above all, teamwork drives me. Truly working together with colleagues, with one shared goal: delivering an event that leaves a lasting impression on both the client and the guests.’
Looking back on your career, were there moments when being a woman influenced your career, positively or negatively?
‘To be honest, I experienced this more as a mother than as a woman. I come from a traditional family where my mother stayed at home to raise the children. For a long time I assumed my life would follow the same path. But by recognizing opportunities and taking them, I was able to build my own career.
I have often been asked whether I still see my children. Fortunately, I am not raising them alone. At home we have a very strong foundation, and we have always had a great list of wonderful babysitters.’
The strength of listening, empathizing and connecting are essential qualities.
– Lydia Baloe, Operations Director
What stereotypes or misconceptions about women in management and operations do you still see today? How do you address them in your role as Operational Director at the Beurs van Berlage?
‘As a board member of the industry association CLC Vecta and a member of the Dutch Venue Association, I fortunately see more and more women active in the industry. That is an encouraging development. The strength of listening, empathizing and connecting are essential qualities within an operational department. I pass these values on to my team, not only through my position but also by setting an example in collaboration, giving responsibilities and allowing room for mistakes so colleagues can grow.’
What message would you like to share with the next generation of women in leadership positions on International Women’s Day?
‘Always stay true to yourself. Every decision you make should be one you fully stand behind. If you haven’t done something before, don’t hold back—seek advice from people who have.
Choose your time consciously. If you have children, put your laptop and phone aside when you are with them. Be truly present. And make sure you have a great babysitter!’
