In this exclusive interview, we sit down with Nina Wenzl — a seasoned professional, mother, and advocate for gender equality — to talk about travel, family life, career challenges, and what it means to lead with authenticity in today’s world. With her experience across continents and her current leadership role (Corporate Affairs Director for Mars Wrigley Central Europe) at Mars, she offers valuable insights into managing personal and professional identities while staying true to one’s values.
What was the best travel destination for you?
Hard to say. I don’t really have just one, but if I had to pick, I would say New Zealand, because New Zealand is a whole continent in one little island in a way. You have glaciers, mountains, beaches, and paradise. The nature is incredible, and the people are so friendly.
How did you enjoy India?
India was astonishing because the culture is so different. It’s mind-blowing. It’s almost too much. For one week I didn’t really enjoy it—I was a little too overwhelmed. But then I thought it was fascinating and I want to go back some day.
Nina Wenzl
How do you manage your two roles: being a career-oriented mum?
That’s a question men never get asked. We had different phases. When the kids were babies, I stayed at home. Then we were both working—I was part-time, he was full-time. Then we both worked full-time. That was the worst. You need a nanny, and when she’s sick, everything breaks down. You’re dependent on others, and we didn’t have grandparents nearby.
It must be hard—two people working full-time careers, managing two kids and a household. Not much time left for a private life.
That’s true. We don’t take time off or create space for ourselves. It was hard. Now my husband is a stay-at-home dad—has been for the last three years. It makes things easier, especially when you know how hard it was the other way.
This lifestyle of a stay-at-home dad is very modern. What do people around you think of this model?
Sometimes women aren’t very supportive of each other. When we were both working full-time and my daughter started school, other moms told me that children need their mother at home. It didn’t feel nice, but that wasn’t my reality. I think that comes from insecurity. Stay-at-home moms also feel judged and need to explain their choices. We all face the same challenge—caring for children, managing a home, and either building a career or explaining why not. We all contribute and should stop judging each other. Dads don’t really comment—they’re just glad it’s not their wife. My mom was always independent, had her own bank account—she was my role model and is proud of me.
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How does your husband present this role, being at home?
Actually, we split up one and a half years ago. The kids live with him in the house, and I live in a flat. I’m with them every weekend and school holidays. But even before we split up, he was a stay-at-home dad. We always split the work. I dropped them at kindergarten; he picked them up. It wasn’t a sudden shift. He’s older, so it’s easier for others to accept that he’s not working. Still, men get judged. They have to explain themselves. There’s also no recognition for staying at home. That’s tough for anyone. But he also believes in creating a safe space for kids. That balance is important.
And what about your life updates? Anything interesting worth the mention?
Nina Wenzl
I started my new career role on October 1st. I’m responsible for 10 Central European markets. I don’t speak any of the languages and have never lived in these countries. It’s a steep learning curve—new cultures, new economies. A big part of it is also equality. There are so many passionate women at Mars who care about gender balance. They love when leaders speak up. It gives me energy. Wherever I go, the challenges are the same. When women start families, they return to traditional roles. It’s hard to break out. We carry the mental and actual workload. There still aren’t enough role models. Men are still decision-makers and hire people like themselves. Mars is committed to balanced leadership teams. In Central Europe our leadership team consists of 8 women and 4 men.
What helped you most in your career?
Being pushed. I tend to underestimate myself. I’m not overly career-focused—I sometimes need a push. I’ve been lucky to have managers and leaders who saw potential and nudged me at the right time. They saw potential, gave me opportunities, and encouraged me. That helped me dare to take steps I wouldn’t have otherwise.
What is the best part of your current role, and what is most difficult?
Before this, I was Corporate Affairs Director for Mars in Germany. Now, I don’t speak the local languages and have to rely on others. Luckily, I trust easily, but I have to learn to lead through others. I had to redefine my role—if I’m not doing things myself, what’s my contribution? Now, it’s about enabling others, removing roadblocks, and building confidence. I have a young team. They need to trust themselves.
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How do you balance your career and personal life? What helps you the most?
I’m an introvert, and I work in communication, so I deal with people a lot. To recharge, I need time alone. I go running, swimming—ideally in a lake, in nature. I don’t talk to anyone and let my mind wander. That’s what helps me the most.
Was there a moment when it all became too much? How did you deal with it?
Nina Wenzl
Yes. I made a mistake. I was working on a big, demanding project under NDA, and my dad and father-in-law both died. I kept going. I thought I had no choice. I was very close to burnout—just about managed to get out of bed. Fortunately, things slowed down. Looking back, I should’ve taken time off. I hope to support other women in making that choice.
But I kept going. I convinced myself I had no other option—that stepping away wasn’t possible. I pushed through, day after day, thinking that was strength. The truth is, I was edging closer and closer to burnout. There were mornings I could barely get out of bed. I was exhausted, emotionally and physically drained, and still trying to show up like everything was fine.
Fortunately, things eventually slowed down enough for me to breathe. I was lucky. But looking back, I see it clearly now: I should’ve taken time off. I should’ve asked for space to grieve, to recover, to rest. And I hope that by being open about this, I can encourage other women to make a different choice—to give themselves permission to pause when life demands it. That’s not weakness. That’s wisdom.
Can you give three pieces of advice for women or young professionals?
First, learn who you are and see your personality as a strength. Second, stop doubting yourself. Third, find the right employer. If you feel bad, it’s not your fault—it’s the wrong place. Keep looking. You don’t have to stay with one employer forever. Mars is like a big family. It supports women. Female leaders are encouraged to exchange and it is inspiring to learn from how they grow and move forward.
How do your kids understand your career? How do they talk about it at school?
When I started at Mars, my kids were four and seven. I told them I work with M&Ms and Snickers, so they thought I ran a chocolate factory. Even people in our small town asked if it was true! They still don’t quite get it, but they know I’m doing something important. Once, we had an event and the U.S. consul visited. My kids were so impressed. Colleagues said, “Your mom is important.” They asked, “Are you really important?” I said, “Well, not for world peace!” But they see I’m a boss, and I bring home free chocolate—that’s what matters.
My children are proud that I have a career, and I’m proud of that.