Apex sat down with Sara Nunez, award-winning global Program Management executive. With her experience transforming organizations by applying a broad range of integrated strategic execution best practices and business development initiatives, she shares her thoughts on being a Woman in Technology.
Q: Is the lack of women in tech really a pipeline problem or is that companies are not providing the culture to cultivate and promote their women talent?
A: We need to do research on this topic. There are many factors to this challenge. 1. We were created with special attributes, just as men were created. 2. Society and Cultures have a lot to do with this issue as well. 3. We need women to unleash their potential without looking at this as competition with men. Companies are us people, therefore, it is our duty to transform and enable success with the right mix of people required regardless of them being women or men.
Q: Does the current conversation about women in tech single women out and leave men out of the solution in your organization?
A: The current conversation is needed and I do believe it is a concern for both sides.
Q: What can organizations do to get more women into senior level and executive positions? Where do you see gaps?
A: Companies are looking for talent and new skills. We need more qualified women with thick skin to be leaders and apply for senior level positions.
Q: What can companies can do to address unconscious bias at all levels of the organization?
HR and hiring programs should measure the desired outcome and strategize to make it happen. A balance and diversity is critical for organizations around the world.
What advice would you give to a woman considering a career in the tech industry? What do you wish you had known?
A: My mentor once told me, if you love what you do, you will be amazing at it. If you are considering a career in the tech industry you have to love it, be an expert at it. Spend extra time to go beyond. You are not competing with men, you are complimenting them and together as a team you will succeed. Be you, be a woman.
Q: What do you think is the biggest challenge for the next generation of women and how can we be stronger role models for them?
A: I think the biggest challenge is to keep up with rapid technology changes and the ability to create knowledge rather than looking for it. Writing articles and visiting universities to share your knowledge with a new generation could give us the platform to prepare them to succeed. We need to pay forward and push them hard.
Q: How is your organization creating programs and training for men to be better advocates for women specifically around support and sponsorship?
A: Multiple programs are in place, from Leadership Dev Programs and global assignments to mentoring and sponsorships.
Q: How can women better support other women in technology?
A: We need to excel and inspire women to follow the steps and make giant moves to be recognized and valued for who we are.
Q: It is no secret that many women in the tech industry have felt their gender has affected the way that they are perceived or treated in their role. Have you come across a situation that made you feel that way?
A: Do not allow that to happen. We are in a company to drive results and motivate each other to succeed. We are ONE.
Sara Nunez, IT Enterprise PMO Director
Dynamic, award-winning global Program Management executive and advisor to the C-suite who ensures strategic PMO is embedded throughout the enterprise’s DNA. Transforms organizations by applying a broad range of integrated strategic execution best practices and business development initiatives. Drives organizational goals, improves performance and efficiencies, and capitalizes on revenue-generating opportunities. Generously shares expertise to inspire a passion for learning, creating high-performance teams with intellectual and emotional connection to their work. Agile and multicultural, with expertise across a broad range of industries including telecommunications, technology, wealth management, and education.