The power of female leadership: Corianne Visser

Working in a predominantly male sector is nothing new for Corianne—she’s been thriving in IT for many years. In 2009, at the age of 21, she started as an Office Manager at myBrand Conclusion. As the organization grew, Corianne was given the opportunity to build the marketing framework. With this experience, she made the move to Conclusion nearly 15 years later, where she has served as Marketing and Communications Director since 2023.

“I still really enjoy working in this sector. Of course, I’m also motivated to help shift the balance between men and women. As a female leader, I want to inspire others by showing what it can bring you—and how important it is to stay true to yourself.”

A Mix in Leadership

When asked about the importance of female leadership, Corianne explains that the strength of leadership lies in the mix.

“For me, diversity in an organization is crucial, and that includes female leadership. A mix in leadership is healthier because it leads to better, more balanced decision-making and greater innovation. That applies to leadership, but really to any team that wants to be effective and successful.”

In her own leadership style, Corianne finds it very important to be part of the team.
“I think it’s incredibly important that the team can be themselves—and that I can be myself too. Looking ahead together and creating plans with energy as a team. I then give my colleagues trust, space, and responsibility.”

Sensitivity

It’s often said that women are more sensitive than men. Corianne sees this “sensitivity” as a valuable feminine trait in the sector.
“When you’re attentive to colleagues who speak up less, you can help ensure more balanced decision-making. In addition, creativity combined with structure are valuable qualities.”

Not the ‘balance’ type

A current topic—and at the same time a timeless one—is the balance between work and private life. Whether you're juggling your social life, your family, or caring for your parents, every generation struggles in its own way to find that balance. Or not?
Corianne: “Time with my family is incredibly important to me, and my work is my passion. It gives me a lot of energy, which I can then channel into my personal life. I’m not really the ‘balance’ type—that actually makes me restless. When there’s a peak at work, I make up for it in my personal life later. As long as you enjoy your work, it doesn’t feel like work.”

The joy Corianne finds in her work gives her the right energy. In addition to caring for her family, she also takes good care of herself—by focusing on personal development and reflection.
“That way, I make sure I’m not just running forward, but also staying aware of where I came from,” says Corianne.

Role Model

Corianne definitely wants to be a role model for other women.
“I want to show other women: speak up about where you want to go and what your ambitions are. Show what you’re capable of! I prefer to focus on what it can bring you—not just within an organization or for yourself, but also for your personal environment.”

If we start paying attention to the ambitions of girls and women from a young age—and continue to do so within organizations—then the Netherlands can increase the number of women in top positions, Corianne believes.

“Let’s emphasize that differences lead to innovation, rather than focusing too much on quotas that can make people feel like victims.”

What’s Next?

Corianne always has ambitions for the future. “I’m constantly taking new steps. Where they’ll lead, you never know. But every step I take is with the goal of making a difference in the field of female leadership. And hopefully, one day, I’ll have the opportunity to inspire more broadly than just within my own environment.”