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Lely's view on diversity and inclusion
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At Lely, we’re a global family – from Brazil to Germany, and from France to China – united by a shared goal: making farmers’ lives easier with innovative solutions. So what’s it like to work with colleagues from different countries, cultures and backgrounds? Here’s what some of your colleagues said!
Xu Li - Team lead FMS
Cluster Asia, China
'One surprising thing I’ve learned working globally is how small cultural habits can spark big ideas. In China, teams often organise a birthday cake. When a Dutch colleague brought a homemade cake, we gathered, laughed, and got to know each other better. It even inspired me to bake my own chocolate cake!
Collaborating globally also challenges me to communicate clearly and confidently. Funny translation mix-ups sometimes happen, but they always teach me to double-check, adapt, and learn from others’ perspectives. Working internationally has made me more open, creative, and daring to share my ideas – and even create more ideas as well.'
Roopa Werner – Salesforce Consultant
Cluster DACH, Germany
'Diversity isn’t just a nice-to-have concept. It’s a real engine for innovation. Working with colleagues from different countries has shown me how cultural contrasts truly enrich the way we approach challenges and collaborate.
In some countries, like Germany and France, people get straight down to business. Meanwhile, in others, such as the UK or Italy, meetings start with a friendly chat. I’ve learnt that small talk isn’t a waste of time – it builds trust and makes collaboration more honest and productive.'
René van Dalen – Marketing Specialist Manure
Lely Headoffice, the Netherlands
'Over the years, I’ve worked with many colleagues worldwide, most recently spending two years in Melbourne, Australia. I’ve learnt that honesty and reliability go a long way: say what you do, and do what you say. It’s a very Dutch way of working, but it’s appreciated everywhere when combined with mutual respect and kindness.
And of course, I love a good joke! I still smile whenever I think of a campaign we did in New Zealand: ‘Herd of a cow brush?’ Simple wordplay, but it shows how laughter connects us across borders.'
Diversity & Inclusion
At Lely, we believe that diversity and inclusion (D&I) strengthen creativity, improve decision-making, and support sustainable long-term results. D&I is part of our ESG approach and an essential element of building a successful global organisation, as described in our Impact30 strategy.
Liziana Freitas – Marketing Specialist
Cluster Latin America, Brazil
'One of the best things about working with people from all over the world is the cultural exchange that happens naturally. When you learn more about your colleague’s context, you start seeing challenges and ideas from entirely new angles. It fuels creativity, and successes in one country often spark inspiration in another.
And to be honest, with all those time zones I never quite know whether to start with ‘good morning’ or ‘good afternoon’… which often leads to some funny moments!'
Pierre Barbier – Method & Projects Manager
Cluster France Iberia, France
'You definitely need to share something about yourself before getting down to business. That felt strange at first, but I’ve grown to really enjoy it! Humour is universal - a simple joke or funny comment can cross borders and raise a smile.
Collaborating globally enriches not only Lely, but also us on a personal level. Due to our differences, we have to think outside the box, simplify where needed, and build synergy – all while improving our language skills. That’s a win-win situation.'
At Lely, we’re a global family – from Brazil to Germany, and from France to China – united by a shared goal: making farmers’ lives easier with innovative solutions. So what’s it like to work with colleagues from different countries, cultures and backgrounds? Here’s what some of your colleagues said!
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