International Women’s Day: Insights from inspiring women at AB Vista

As we celebrate International Women’s Day (8 March), we take the opportunity to recognise and appreciate the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women. At AB Vista, we honour diversity and are proud of the incredible contributions made by women in science and business. To mark this day, we asked three of our experts to share their experiences, challenges and advice for the future female workforce.

Gemma González Ortiz, Research Manager based in Catalonia; Pamela Ponce, Office Manager based in the US; and Sally Walton, Commercial & Technical Manager at AB Vista NIR Services, based in England, offer their insights into what it means to be a woman in their roles and how they’ve navigated their careers to inspire and empower others.

Please tell us about your role at AB Vista – what does your work involve?

Gemma: “I joined AB Vista 10 years ago as a Research Manager. I’m responsible for overseeing research in new product development, which includes enzymes and other additives, to support our customers in improving animal performance and health in monogastrics.”

Pamela: “As an Office Manager for the NAM region , I oversee the day-to-day operations to ensure a smooth and efficient workplace. My role extends beyond office management, as I also provide marketing support, assisting with administrative tasks and coordinating events. Additionally, I serve as the local IT liaison, bridging the gap between employees and our remote IT team by troubleshooting basic technical issues.”

Sally: “I work for AB Vista’s NIR Services, as the Technical and Commercial Manager. A lot of my job involves looking for new opportunities to work with different instruments and customers within the NIR field. I’m also heavily involved in customer service ensuring that both internal and external customers are happy with the calibrations that we provide, constantly looking for improvements and development opportunities.”

What initially drew you to your field and how has your career developed since that time?

Gemma: “My research career at university where I discovered my vocation, which helped make clearer to me what I wanted to do. After completing my PhD, AB Vista gave me the opportunity to start an incredible journey in research, guided by Mike Bedford, Research Director, and his team. Since that time, I’ve grown as a researcher.”

Pamela: “My time at AB Vista started through an opportunity in finance, in a temporary role – this is what introduced me to business operations, sparking my interest in process improvement and organisational support. As the company grew, so did my responsibilities – I transitioned into an Officer Coordinator role.

“Recognising the need for local IT support, I took the initiative to learn the basics and became the bridge between employees and our remote IT team. Over time, my role continued to expand, and I began assisting the Marketing team, further diversifying my skill set. In addition, I took on responsibilities as a Wellbeing Representative and Fire Warden.

“These responsibilities see me actively promote a positive work environment, supporting initiatives that enhance employee wellness, as well as ensuring safety protocols are in place and that our team is prepared in case of emergencies. My diverse role allows me to contribute to multiple aspects of the business, ensuring efficiency, support, and a positive workplace culture.”

Sally: “I started off in another part of ABF, on the agricultural graduate scheme at British Sugar. I always wanted to work in science, and my first role within the company was within R&D, working with different varieties and overcoming pests in sugar beet (I love bugs!). I moved to AB Vista NIR Services (formerly Aunir) after I’d started to work with CRM systems at British Sugar. I realised that to deliver the best scientific solutions and customer experience to customers, we need to be as organised as possible.

“When I heard Aunir needed help developing and implementing a CRM and that they were still in the scientific field, it felt like a good fit. Since then, I’ve moved from working daily repairing kits and developing the CRM to a management role with my own team.”

IWD celebrates the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women. What has been one of your proudest achievements?

Gemma: “My two sons, Aitor and Edgar.”

Pamela: “One of my proudest achievements has been my ability to grow and evolve within AB Vista over the past 12 years. I started as a temporary finance agent and, through hard work and adaptability, transitioned into multiple roles that have allowed me to make a meaningful impact. From managing office operations to providing IT and marketing support, I’ve taken on new challenges and continuously expanded my skill set.

“What makes me especially proud is the support I provide to my colleagues – whether by troubleshooting technical issues, creating an efficient work environment or contributing to employee well-being. Being able to wear many hats and play a role in fostering a positive and productive workplace has been incredibly rewarding.”

Sally: “For me, it’s always been getting academic achievements to prove to myself that I can do it and then using the results of my work to make a difference. I got my degree in Biology to prove to myself that I could be a “real” scientist; then I got my masters, as I loved insects and to work with them in the area I wanted, I needed specialist knowledge.

“More recently, I’ve completed my apprenticeship, funded through AB Vista, further developing my skills to coach, teach, grab opportunities and deliver great products. It's all about getting the most knowledge that you can and utilising it in the workplace.”

Which woman or women inspire you the most?

Gemma: “I’ve taken inspiration from my grandmother and mum. Honestly, from their humble positions, they have always provided the best advice for me at every stage of my life, allowing me to grow personally and professionally.”

Pamela: “I’m inspired by women who lead with confidence, resilience and authenticity. Those who break barriers, challenge norms and uplift others while staying true to their values stand out to me the most. Whether it’s women in leadership, entrepreneurship or personal mentors in my life, I admire those who create opportunities for others and foster a culture of growth and empowerment.”

Sally: “A challenge I’ve always faced is being neurodivergent, although I didn't get a name for it until more recently. People who have daily struggles and overcome them to be successful are key for me, especially on days when it all feels a bit much. Ellie Middleton is a speaker and writer who travels the world speaking about neurodiversity and has been very successful in achieving her goals.

“Then, there’s the people I work with. I'm part of a small close-knit team, all of whom have different experiences and challenges in life and who have been very supportive of me. Watching and learning from them on how they tackle situations is very inspiring to me.”

This year’s theme calls for action that can unlock power and opportunity for all. What do you think workplaces can do to improve opportunities for women?

Gemma: “Governments around the world need to consider equality and give the same opportunities for everybody; especially supporting and rewarding employers recruiting women. There’s still a lot of progress to be made.”

Pamela: “Workplaces can improve opportunities for women by fostering inclusive leadership, ensuring equitable career growth and providing mentorship programmes that support women at all stages of their careers.”

Sally: “I've worked in Agricultural Science for 20 years now, and it is changing. It was once very male-dominated, and I had many experiences in the field where I was talked down to or patronised for being a woman. I feel that opinions are changing, and representation in the workplace is higher, especially in senior roles and this needs to continue.

“I think more graduate or apprenticeship schemes in general would be a help to show that the world of science is open to all, and not the scary thing some people think it is.”

What advice would you give to younger women who are considering entering your field?

Gemma: “My advice to other women would be don’t give up, if this is what you truly wish to do.”

Pamela: “Believe in your abilities, embrace continuous learning, and don’t be afraid to take initiative. Leadership isn’t about knowing everything – it’s about being adaptable, making informed decisions and supporting those around you.

“Seek out mentors, advocate for yourself and trust that your unique strengths bring value to any team. Most importantly, don’t be afraid to take up space and assert yourself in environments where your voice matters.”

Sally: “Just go for it. It's nothing to be feared. Reach out to people in the field and ask lots of questions. I've always found everyone in AB Vista will put the time in to support others.”