Beyond the Glass Ceiling: A Leadership Journey

Leading with Purpose: What Being a Woman Leader in Tech Means to Me

Being a woman in tech, especially in an era of rapid AI-led innovation and human-centric design, is both exciting and enlightening. I consider it a privilege to be part of such a dynamic industry, surrounded by motivated and diverse individuals. Having held critical roles in IT for over 25 years, leadership to me is about resilience, adaptability, and the ability to drive growth and inclusiveness while upholding integrity. I’ve also had the opportunity to manage end-to-end technology delivery for one of our large Asset & Wealth Management customers with a global footprint an experience that strengthened my perspective on leading with purpose and impact.

My Tech Journey: Evolution of my Leadership

My journey in tech has been one of evolution, driven by curiosity, continuous learning, and strong mentorship. I started with a background in Physics, which sparked my interest in electronics and digital tools. This led me to pursue computer science, where I developed skills in programming and system design. Along the way, I’ve relied on lots of self-motivation, grit, and an inborn need to prove myself driven by values inculcated from many mentors over the course of my career. Balancing professional with personal life, prioritizing between the two, and striking a sustainable rhythm have been key. Adapting to changes, developing a growth mindset, and consistently investing in both personal and professional development have helped shape my journey from a curious learner to a confident leader.

Early Foundations

Building B2B and B2C websites early in my career gave me hands-on experience and deepened my appreciation for tech’s role in improving lives.

Growth and Specialization

As my career progressed, I specialized in software development, usability engineering, and legacy modernization. I earned certifications in cloud technologies, agile practices, and domain-centric areas to stay relevant and add value.

Stepping into Leadership

Over time, I took on leadership roles managing cross-functional teams, driving innovation, and mentoring the next generation of tech professionals. These experiences taught me the value of empathy, clear communication, and strategic thinking.

Looking Ahead: AI and Domain-Driven Innovation

Currently, my focus is on AI and its potential to solve complex, global challenges particularly within Asset and Wealth Management. At Indium, I collaborate with like-minded individuals to deliver forward-thinking solutions that make a difference.

Advice to Young Women in Tech

• Believe in yourself and your support system.
• Be ambitious. Give your best and expect results.
• Don’t fear challenges. Tackle them with logic and determination.
• Balance career and life. It’s okay to take the backseat sometimes; your time to lead will come.
• Take breaks mindfully. Avoid long gaps that may hinder your momentum.
• Stay ethical. Let your moral compass guide you.

Balancing People, Process, and Innovation

As a leader, I view these three pillars as interconnected forces driving organizational success:

• People: Empower individuals, acknowledge contributions, and foster a culture of recognition and feedback.
• Processes: Implement processes that are adaptable and designed to boost efficiency. The true success of a process lies in its adoption.
• Innovation: Align innovation with long-term business goals. Reassess and refine strategies to ensure sustainable and impactful progress.

Looking Forward: More women in leadership roles

While strides have been made in education, the number of women in senior tech leadership remains low. I hope to see more women rise to top management roles like CTOs and CIOs. Closing this gap will pave the way for a more inclusive, equitable, and representative tech industry.

Final thoughts

The journey in tech is ever-changing, and success lies in embracing that change. By focusing on people, driving innovation, and staying true to our values, we can shape a future where women thrive as leaders, creators, and changemakers in technology.