Indonesian Women in Leadership: Driving Success Across Key Industries

Exceptional Leadership in State-Owned Enterprises

Indonesia's business landscape is being shaped by several remarkable women who have taken on leadership roles in major state-owned enterprises and private companies. Their achievements demonstrate the growing influence of women in Indonesia's corporate sector.

1. Melati Sarnita - Leading Inalum's Strategic Growth

Melati Sarnita was appointed as the Director Utama (CEO) of PT Indonesia Asahan Aluminium (Inalum) on June 10, 2025. With extensive experience in the steel, manufacturing, and energy sectors, Sarnita brings valuable expertise to her role. Previously, she served as Commercial Director at PT Krakatau Steel (2020-2023) and held various other leadership positions in major Indonesian companies. Her background includes significant experience in commercial management and strategic development.

2. Tri Andayani - Transforming PT Pelni

Tri Andayani, currently the Director Utama of PT Pelni, has been instrumental in the company's transformation. Appointed in 2022 through a General Meeting of Shareholders, Andayani has a strong financial background having previously served as Director of Finance at Pelni from 2017-2019. Her academic credentials include a degree in Economics from STIE Perbanas Jakarta and a Master's in Management from Universitas Gadjah Mada Yogyakarta.

3. Alexandra Askandar - Driving Banking Excellence

Alexandra Askandar, aged 53, has made significant contributions to Indonesia's banking sector. Having previously served as Deputy CEO at Bank Mandiri from 2020-2025, Askandar brings extensive banking experience to her current role as Deputy Director at BNI. Her career highlights include positions such as Senior Executive Vice President of Corporate Banking at Bank Mandiri (2016-2018) and various directorial roles within the organization.

4. Febby Novita - Leading Business Operations at Bulog

Febby Novita, the only female member of Perum Bulog's board of directors, has been serving as Business Director since October 21, 2020. With a career spanning over two decades at Bulog, Novita has held various significant positions including Head of the Wholesale Sales and Government Market Division. She holds a degree in Management from Universitas Pancasila (2001) and a Master's in Management and Business from Institut Pertanian Bogor (2016).

5. Nurhayati Subakat - Innovating in the Beauty Industry

Nurhayati Subakat, Founder and CEO of PT Paragon Technology and Innovation, has revolutionized Indonesia's beauty industry through her successful brands. Starting her career as a pharmacist, Subakat began her entrepreneurial journey in 1985 with Wardah, a halal cosmetics brand. Under Paragon Technology & Innovation, she has successfully launched multiple popular brands including Make Over and Emina. By 2018, the company managed 10 brands and employed 8,300 staff, capturing 30% of Indonesia's beauty products market.

Conclusion

These five women exemplify exceptional leadership in Indonesia's corporate landscape, demonstrating remarkable achievements across various industries. Their success stories highlight the growing importance of women's leadership in driving business growth and innovation in Indonesia.