Sustainability at SMG
We are dedicated to prioritizing sustainability, and acting responsibly. Our commitment to Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles, as well as the principles of the circular economy, reflects our aim to create a better and more sustainable future for everyone.
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What We Focus On

Environmental

We strive to minimize our ecological footprint, reduce waste, and conserve natural resources. The commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility we have, is exemplified through the thoughtful renovation of our new co-working space. Embodying the principles of the Circular Economy, we ensured that resources are utilized efficiently and repurposed to contribute to a more sustainable future. 

Social Responsibility

We recognize the power of community and inclusivity. Our pledge to social responsibility centers on fostering a workplace that celebrates diversity, and giving back to the communities we serve. We want to do so in a sustainable way, to make sure these practises stay rooted in our company culture. Like at Ricardo: It is not just about secondhand goods – it is about creating unforgettable experiences for a good cause. This is where #RicardoForGood takes center stage.

Governance

Transparent, sustainable, and ethical governance is the cornerstone of our operations. We uphold the highest standards of integrity, ensuring accountability, security, and trust in every decision we make. These principles are embodied in our Code of Conduct. At SMG, we aim high, and our vision is a cyber-safe future. We not only believe in it but are committed to actively contributing to this vision. Being a part of the FIDO Alliance aligns perfectly with our mission and commitment to advancing cybersecurity in a sustainable manner.

We Have a Responsibility

We Have a Responsibility

At SMG, we believe in a future where innovation goes hand in hand with responsibility. Our commitment to ESG isn't just about meeting standards; it's about pioneering a sustainable path forward.

Our commitment to ESG is more than a corporate initiative; it's a hands-on journey that starts with fostering a diverse and inclusive culture. We understand that true innovation thrives in an environment where every voice is heard and valued.

ESG at SMG

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Building Awareness for a More Inclusive SMG

31.10.2024

Building Trust Through Technology: Our Commitment to Data Protection

20.08.2024

Goodbye Passwords: Our Journey to a Passwordless Future

10.04.2024

Demystifying Cybersecurity Threats: An Overview

18.03.2024

Introducing: the Explorer Starter Days

20.02.2024

Cybersecurity 101: What Does It Encompass?

Marta Andreoni

Head of Design for Automotive

Introduce yourself and your role at SMG

I’m Marta Andreoni, Head of Design at SMG Automotive. I lead the design and UX writing team shaping AutoScout24 user experience. 

In my role, I wear many hats. My main focus is ensuring we stay true to our vision “simplifying people’s lives and connecting humans through innovative digital platforms” and our brand promise, “make it happen”. I challenge my team to think user-first, push for innovation, ease of use for our customers and make forward-thinking decisions, even within business and technological constraints.

 A big part of my role is supporting each designer’s growth, motivation, and career development. Through one-on-one coaching, mentoring, group work, and projects, I help my colleagues set and achieve their goals while fostering new learning opportunities.

What helps you feel empowered and confident in your role?

If I had to mention one thing I would say “being proactive” has been key to feeling more empowered. I enjoy solving problems, so when issues or opportunities arise, be it in the product, market or the team, I get curious and I proactively investigate the reasons and try to bring inputs to be discussed with others, this makes me feel I can be part of the process or solution and my point of view is going to be taken seriously. My optimism also plays a role, giving me confidence that even the most complex challenges can be solved. 

Besides, having trust from other managers and colleagues makes me feel in a safe environment where I can take ownership on topics I’m passionate about. 

What’s one thing SMG does well in fostering an inclusive workplace? What more can be done to amplify and support different perspectives in the workplace?

In my experience, we strive for balancing top-down and bottom-up inputs, ensuring employees can influence product directions, processes, and culture. People are approachable, and our strong feedback culture helps voices be heard. Across SMG, initiatives like regular People & Culture Surveys, topic guilds, and events in our locations across the world foster open exchange and mutual learning.

That said, I’ve noticed that quieter voices sometimes get less space, or interacting with top management can feel intimidating, especially when giving critical feedback. To make participation more inclusive, we could apply more facilitation and group work techniques like structured turn-taking, written input, and smaller group discussions – ensuring everyone, regardless of confidence level, seniority or personality, feels comfortable contributing. 

Design is often about seeing the world differently. How do unique perspectives contribute to more innovative, inclusive, or impactful design?

Design is about understanding diverse user personas and perspectives to create solutions that truly meet their needs or create new opportunities. I believe in the power of collaboration to shape user experiences – bringing together different disciplines, backgrounds, and lived experiences helps challenge assumptions, uncover blind spots, and drive more inclusive, innovative, and impactful solutions.

Looking back on your career, what’s one lesson or piece of advice you wish you had known earlier as a leader in design?

There are three things no one really prepares you for as a design leader: dealing with constant change, facing failure and handling emotions at work. These topics aren’t talked about much until you face them. I was lucky to learn from others’ experiences, but much of it came through my own.

One thing I wish I had understood earlier is the power of emotional intelligence, my job is no longer about the content and the design, it is about people. Self-awareness, not just of your own emotions, but also how others feel and react, can be the difference between conflict and harmony, frustration and clarity. The more I grow as a leader and designer, the more I realise that design isn’t just about doing the design job, delivering solutions on the market: it’s about navigating people, their emotions, and making change more acceptable and transforming issues into opportunities, both within the organisation and through great products.

 

Fotos vom Management mit und ohne Hintergrundfarbe als ZIP-Datei

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