In this thought-provoking episode, Elevate Women in Tech, host Kellie Kwarteng chats with Jenny Garrett, OBE, a renowned expert in diversity, equity, and inclusion, sheds light on the persisting underrepresentation of women in tech leadership roles.
Despite efforts towards gender parity, women make up only 26% of tech workers and a mere 9% of tech leadership positions – a phenomenon often referred to as the "broken rung."
Jenny delves into the significant barriers hindering women's advancement, such as the lack of representation, unsupportive work cultures, and the constant need for self-advocacy. She offers practical steps organizations can take to repair this broken rung:
📍 Implement sponsorship programs to advocate for women's potential
📍 Appreciate diversity of thought and create inclusive environments
📍 Foster active allyship, where everyone plays a role in supporting women's success
📍 Embed diversity, equity, and inclusion as a core strategic priority
The conversation also highlights the importance of allyship, particularly from men, in driving positive change. Jenny shares insights on what effective allyship looks like in practice, from understanding women's experiences to speaking up in the moment and amplifying their voices.
The episode is a powerful reminder that true change requires a collective effort – recognizing the power of allyship, challenging stereotypes, and finding connections among all individuals.
Tune in to this inspiring episode to uncover the importance of retention, the impact of microaggressions, and the necessity of effective allyship in creating equitable pathways for women in tech leadership.
Useful resource links:
To connect with Jenny Garrett, OBE,
To purchase Jenny's Book - Equality vs Equity
JennyGarrett Global/ Reflexion Associates
Access Coaching Directory - Diverse Executive Coach Directory
Details on Rocking Ur Teens CiC
This episode is sponsored by BCS, The Chartered Institute for IT, the professional body for the tech sector. They’re on a mission to build a trusted profession that can steer technology on a safe path and take on the big challenges facing the world today. They know that every time a girl drops computing at GCSE, or a female worker switches her career in tech to another path, it’s a major blow to the profession and our collective potential. That’s why BCS is using the power of their global community to bring about real change - reaching out across diverse communities, addressing bias, celebrating role models, supporting skills development and career opportunities.
When EDI in tech is the norm — in every lecture theatre, dev team and board meeting — that’s when we unlock a profession that takes us into a fairer digital future. If you’re a student, teacher, working in tech or a leader in tech, join forces with BCS and let’s make the vision a reality. To find out more about the work BCS is doing in the sector and how to join them on their mission, go to bcs.org/BringItOn
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