Tech firms urge action for gender equality in industry

Ahead of International Women's Day 2025 this week, significant attention is being drawn to the persistent gender disparities in the technology sector, with leading companies such as SS&C Blue Prism and SUSE highlighting the need for accelerated action towards greater inclusion and equality.

Linda Dotts, Chief Partner Strategy Officer at SS&C Blue Prism, stated that despite advancements in AI and other technologies, the tech industry remains predominantly male, with women often lacking representation in senior roles. "Men still hold more than half of IT-related roles and comprise over 70% of the top earners," she noted, referencing data from the Workplace Gender Equality Agency.

Dotts emphasised that these figures reflect not a lack of skill among women but rather enduring misconceptions and biases that undermine their progress and contribution. "Building a culture that values and supports the success of women in technology fields is paramount," she urged, highlighting the importance of creating an environment where women can thrive in roles ranging from research to leadership.

Dotts also pointed out the pressing need to encourage women into STEM fields by dismantling systemic barriers that obstruct their access to opportunities. She underscored the importance of mentoring and inspirational leadership to address this issue, remarking that leaders should facilitate environments where women are free to innovate and excel.

In line with the theme of this year's International Women's Day, "Accelerate Action," Dotts stressed that recognising gender-neutral skills is crucial as the IT landscape evolves towards sustainability. She called for increased urgency in addressing systemic biases in science and technology.

Meanwhile, SUSE's Global Head of DE&I, Culture and Talent, Savitha Nayak, detailed SUSE's strategic initiatives to foster a diverse, equitable, and inclusive workplace. Nayak emphasised that technology, particularly AI, plays a key role in accelerating transformation towards inclusivity. "Leadership and culture are foundational, but technology can amplify progress," she stated.

Nayak outlined SUSE's commitment to achieving 30% female representation in leadership by 2026 through diversity programmes, tailored training, and development initiatives. She cited the success in the Asia-Pacific region, where more women are stepping into pivotal roles, as proof of these efforts.

SUSE is also launching the Inclusion Champions programme, aimed at embedding diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) across the organisation. These champions are tasked with driving engagement, challenging biases, and leading conversations to ensure inclusion becomes a standard practice.

Nayak highlighted the potential of AI in creating fairer workplaces by reducing unconscious bias, balancing workloads, and offering personalised career development opportunities. However, she cautioned that AI is only as effective as the data it is trained on, warning that biases in historical data could perpetuate existing disparities if left unchecked.

The statements from SS&C Blue Prism and SUSE underscore a collective call to action within the tech industry, stressing that meaningful change requires both committed leadership and innovative use of technology. Both companies emphasise the importance of nurturing an environment where differences are celebrated and every individual has the opportunity to reach their full potential.

These initiatives and reflections highlight the ongoing challenges and opportunities in the tech industry when it comes to improving gender equality. As artificial intelligence and technology continue to reshape the workplace, companies that prioritise inclusion and diversity will be better equipped to attract and retain a talented workforce, spurring innovation and success.