Opportunities to Grow, Take on New Challenges and Gain Experience: Why This VP Loves Her Company

Siemens Digital Industries Software is a global leader in the growing field of product lifecycle management (PLM), manufacturing operations management (MOM) and electronic design automation (EDA) software, hardware and services. 

In fact, the company’s products are used to manage or create more than 40% of the world’s 3D data. That’s thanks to the diverse people behind the company who put their minds together to innovate and create.

“I love working at Siemens because there are so many different roles and ways to contribute,” says Eryn Devola, the vice president of sustainability. “Few other companies can provide the variety of roles, industries and ways to contribute all while carrying the same badge.”

Devola, who, since December 2021, coordinates the company’s offering and go-to market for D&I in the context of sustainability, has been with Siemens for 10 years. Prior to her current role, she led the U.S. sales force and was responsible for selling the Perfect Harmony Medium Voltage Drives. In her decade with the company, however, she has had the opportunity to contribute to three different operating companies in five different roles.

As part of Siemens’ greater diversity and inclusion focus, the company tells Fairygodboss that they are committed to hiring and developing women, such as Devola. To support their goals, Siemens Digital Industries Software created the Women’s Impact Network (WINS), a group for women-identifying employees to inspire, learn, create, mentor and grow. This space intends to advance and advocate for women within the business.

We caught up with Devola to learn more about what she personally loves about working at Siemens Digital Industries Software, what her day-to-day work looks like and why she’s stayed for so long. Here’s what she had to say.

How has your day-to-day work changed since you went into leadership at your Siemens Digital Industries Software? What about your overall approach to work?

In my time with Siemens, I have had the opportunity to lead a variety of different teams and initiatives. My day-to-day work has varied based on the maturity of the organization, the needs and strengths of the team and the nature of the tasks.

My overall approach to work has stayed pretty consistent. I try to work with the team to set a common vision and work through the steps to achieve — fully expecting that we will encounter problems that we will need to adapt to and work to overcome.

What’s one strategy you’ve used when managing an individual or team that you think has been particularly effective?

Setting goals, expectations and ground rules as a team for the team.

What is your No. 1 piece of advice for other women who are moving into or want to move into leadership?

If you would like to move into leadership, my best advice is to find opportunities to lead either in the workplace, your community or by supporting a hobby. Many of the leadership skills I have today, I began developing in high school and college by taking leadership roles in clubs and organizations.

How would you describe your leadership style?

I try to work collaboratively with my team to set and develop a strategy that the team believes, and then I help provide the coaching and tools needed to achieve our goals.

I keep communication open, expectations clear and provide support as needed.

What’s the No. 1 thing you hope your direct reports are getting out of working with you?

I always hope that my direct reports know that I am invested in their success and their growth.

How do you think about making sure your direct reports feel well-supported in their lives both in and out of the office?

I frequently check-in with my team and work to create an environment that fosters direct, open and honest communication.

Can you identify anything you said or did that earmarked you as someone ready for advancement?

I have always tried to keep my mind open to opportunity. Some of the moves I have made are not typical, but saying “yes” more than “no” has served me well.

What opportunities did your company provide that ultimately helped you land your role?

The opportunity to contribute in varying roles in the organization was extremely helpful in providing me the experience and skill set needed for my current role.

Ultimately, what has led you to stay at Siemens Digital Industries Software?

I have stayed with Siemens for almost 10 years because I have been provided opportunities to grow, to take on new challenges and gain varied experiences. My contributions have been valued, my ideas heard and my perspectives have been considered. My roles have also provided flexibility to support my professional and personal responsibilities.

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