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Celebrating Women in Tech: Insights from Jenipher and Maya

11 February 2025

On the International Day of Women and Girls in Science, we celebrate the inspiring stories of women who are shaping the future of technology. At AUTO1 Group, women are making a significant impact, driving innovation, and breaking barriers in the automotive tech industry. Today, we’re proud to share the journeys and insights of two remarkable women: Jenipher Eze-Kiergaẞner, Product Manager, and Maya Unger-Wetzel, Lead Product Manager, both based at our headquarters in Berlin.

Into the World of Tech
The path to a career in technology can take many forms, and both Jenipher and Maya’s journeys reflect the diversity of experiences that lead women into this field.

Jenipher’s passion for creativity and problem-solving naturally drew her to technology. “I was drawn to a career in tech because it allows me to bring ideas to life and create solutions that genuinely impact how people experience the world,” she explains. For her, technology is the perfect blend of innovation and practicality, offering endless opportunities to tackle real-world challenges while continuously evolving.

Maya’s journey, on the other hand, started far from the tech world. With an academic background in behavioral sciences and an MBA in business administration, she initially worked in event production and marketing communications. However, when she moved to Germany 13 years ago, she faced a language barrier that limited her marketing career. This challenge became an opportunity to explore new fields, and she found her way into technology through a Product Specialist role at a global e-commerce marketplace. “That role opened the door to a fulfilling career in technology,” she reflects, highlighting how embracing change can lead to unexpected and rewarding paths.

Making an Impact at AUTO1 Group
Jenipher and Maya have made significant contributions to the company’s success, driving progress and enhancing processes.

Jenipher leads the development of innovative digital solutions for the purchase application, a tool used in branches to evaluate cars before they are purchased from private customers. This streamlines the car trading experience across Europe. One of her proudest accomplishments is the evaluation optimization project, which leverages AI and automation to reduce the time customers spend at branches for evaluations. “This project not only improves efficiency but also saves lots of costs while enhancing customer satisfaction,” she shares.

Maya’s contributions have spanned multiple areas over the past seven years, from building foundational tools to leading cutting-edge projects. Recently, she has focused on retail consumer financing and value-added services, launching an internal financing product in Germany and Austria. This fully digital process allows customers to apply for loans directly on Autohero’s checkout and receive instant pre-approvals. “It’s a major milestone for our business and an exciting growth area,” she says.

How Diversity Fuels Creativity and Progress
Both women are passionate advocates for diversity in technology. “Diversity in tech is about uniting people from all walks of life—different backgrounds, perspectives, and experiences—to spark innovation and creativity,” Jenipher explains. She believes that diverse teams challenge norms, push boundaries, and create smarter, more inclusive solutions.

Maya echoes this sentiment, highlighting how varied perspectives enrich problem-solving and lead to better outcomes. “It’s not just about inclusion—it’s about creating an environment where everyone’s contributions enrich the final outcome,” she says. By embracing diversity, teams can design solutions that are more inclusive and better suited to the needs of a global audience.

Empowering the Next Generation of Women in Tech
As women who have carved out successful careers in technology, Jenipher and Maya are passionate about inspiring and supporting the next generation of women in the field.

Jenipher encourages women and girls to believe in their abilities and take up space in the industry. “Seek out mentors, build a strong network, and don’t be afraid to voice your ideas—they matter,” she advises. She emphasizes the importance of staying curious, continuously learning, and trusting that your unique insights can drive meaningful change.

Maya’s advice is equally empowering: “You can learn and achieve anything. You just need to have the courage to start, set your goals, and work towards them—even if your path isn’t traditional.” She also stresses the importance of filtering out negativity and focusing on your aspirations. “Don’t let doubters hold you back. You just have to dare!”

Inspiration and Growth at AUTO1 Group
For both women, AUTO1 Group has been a place of growth and opportunity. Jenipher values the collaborative environment that fosters innovation and teamwork, while Maya appreciates the trust and support she has received throughout her career.

“From the very beginning, I was given the opportunity to step into a Product role by building an important tool from scratch—a chance I’m forever grateful for,” Maya shares. She credits the company’s approach of “pushing you into the deep end” for fostering a learn-by-doing mindset that has been instrumental in her development.

When asked about the women who inspire them, Maya highlights those who overcome challenges and achieve bold goals, particularly those from less privileged backgrounds or unconventional paths. “These are the women who show us that resilience and determination can overcome any barrier,” she says.

As we celebrate the International Day of Women and Girls in Science, the stories of Jenipher and Maya remind us of the incredible work women bring to the tech industry. Their journeys, accomplishments, and dedication inspire us to continue building a more inclusive and diverse future in science and technology. If you want to join us in shaping the future of automotive technology, explore our career opportunities. We welcome applicants of all genders, ethnicities, religions, and backgrounds to apply.