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Behind the Scenes: Navigating IT and Life

Aug 2, 2024 • 3 min

Deep dive Behind the Scenes with us as we explore unique stories of women in leadership at RELEX.

When it comes to leading the IT department at RELEX, Vice President Petra Berg does more than just manage technology. She fosters growth, both within the business and her team. Her journey into the tech world is as unique as her approach to leadership. 

Petra’s path to IT wasn’t planned. After high school, unsure of her future, she followed a friend’s suggestion to try out information technology. Ironically, she got accepted into the program, while her friend didn’t. “I have a career now in IT, and it was actually a blessing because I didn’t realize how broad the field is,” Petra recalls. She quickly discovered that IT is about more than technology; it’s about people and problem-solving. 

At RELEX, Petra’s day-to-day responsibilities revolve around understanding and aiding the business to evolve. “My daily routines consist of meeting a lot of people, both from the business side and my team, to discuss different demands and problems. We are a problem-solving team,” she explains. Petra sees her role as a bridge between technology and people, working to foresee and navigate the company’s future challenges. 

One of Petra’s proudest achievements is her rise through the ranks from a system specialist to a C-level executive. This journey has given her a comprehensive understanding of all business levels, from operational to strategic. She’s also proud of fostering growth within her team at RELEX. “I have been able to see people grow in my team in a very short time,” she says with pride. 

What Petra loves most about her role is the people. Despite the technical nature of her job, she thrives on interactions with different individuals. “A lot of people think that because I’m driving IT inside the organization, I’m talking a lot of tech. Of course, that’s a part of it, but I’m a people person,” Petra shares. Her ability to connect with people daily is what makes her job rewarding. 

For women considering a career in IT, Petra’s advice is straightforward: “Believe in yourself and have somebody believe in you. It’s not about the technology; it’s about people and how we are working. Don’t be afraid of the tech stuff. You will learn that.” 

RELEX has significantly contributed to Petra’s well-being and career development. The company offers mentorship and coaching programs that she finds invaluable. The company values resonate deeply with her, especially the notion that “a colleague is a friend.” This value is lived every day at RELEX, creating a supportive environment from upper management to the grassroots level. “You can go to anyone at any level, ask for help or advice, and you will feel that they are a friend,” Petra emphasizes. 

Petra also appreciates RELEX’s multicultural environment, where people with different backgrounds feel respected and valued. “I can be myself. People are respecting me no matter what,” she says. This inclusive culture makes RELEX a safe space for everyone to thrive. 

Outside of work, Petra is a self-proclaimed foodie. She loves exploring new restaurants and dishes, often organizing food-related events with friends and family. Her competitive nature extends beyond her professional life. Petra shares a fun fact: “I will never sing karaoke. That’s a bet I have made with my friends. There’s a compensation if somebody ever gets me to sing karaoke.” This playful challenge is a testament to her competitive spirit. 

Petra Berg’s story is one of unexpected paths, personal growth, and the importance of human connection in the tech world. Her journey at RELEX is a testament to the power of believing in oneself and the transformative potential of a supportive work environment. 

Interested in joining the team? Explore our careers section and dive into the RELEX experience!

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