The technology sector is transforming how organisations operate, innovate and grow, but building the workforce needed for the future requires access to a wider range of skills, experiences and perspectives.
While progress has been made, women remain underrepresented in technology roles. Creating more inclusive technology teams is not only an opportunity to improve diversity; it is a key part of addressing skills shortages, strengthening innovation and ensuring organisations can attract and retain the talent they need.
At Leep Talent, we believe meaningful change comes through a combination of skills development, inclusive workplace practices and open conversations. That is why we hosted our first Women in Tech Employer Roundtable webinar this July. The session brought together industry professionals to discuss the challenges, opportunities and actions needed to support more women in technology.
Our Women in Tech webinar brought together a panel of inspiring women from across the technology sector, who shared their career journeys, experiences and advice for employers looking to create more inclusive workplaces.
The discussion explored key topics including:
The conversation highlighted that while organisations are making progress, there is still more work to do to ensure women have equal access to opportunities within the technology sector.
“Throughout my career, around 90% of my managers have been men. We often talk about needing more female role models, and I agree, but I've also learned the value of male allies. Every time I've asked to be in the room or asked for an opportunity, I've never been told no. Sometimes we have to stop downplaying ourselves, put our hands up and ask. More often than not, the door is already open.” - Faye Wilkins, Digital Futures.
“Managers aren't expected to diagnose somebody or become experts in women's health. What they are expected to do is build trust, create a safe environment and ask simple questions like, 'How can I support you?' or 'What would make a difference at work?' Every person's experience is different, and good management starts with curiosity.” - Claire Hughes, Total Mobile.
Technology influences almost every aspect of modern business, from automation and artificial intelligence to cybersecurity and data-driven decision-making. However, the teams developing these solutions should reflect the diverse customers and communities they serve.
Women remain significantly underrepresented in technology roles, making up only around a quarter of the UK tech workforce. For employers facing ongoing digital skills shortages, improving gender diversity presents an opportunity to access a broader talent pool and develop stronger technology teams.
Research has also shown the business benefits of diversity. Diverse teams can bring different perspectives, encourage innovation and support better decision-making, helping organisations build solutions that meet a wider range of needs.
However, creating change requires more than improving recruitment processes. Employers need to consider how they attract, develop and retain women in technology roles through inclusive cultures, career development opportunities and strong support networks.
Progress begins with understanding. Webinars, roundtables and industry discussions create valuable opportunities for employers and professionals to share experiences, challenge assumptions and explore practical solutions.
By bringing together different perspectives, organisations can better understand the barriers women may face throughout their careers and identify meaningful steps they can take to create more inclusive technology environments.
These conversations also help showcase role models and success stories, inspiring more women to consider technology careers while encouraging employers to continue improving their approach to diversity and inclusion.
Following the success of our first Women in Tech webinar, we are excited to continue the conversation with our next session taking place in October.
The upcoming session will once again bring together technology professionals and industry voices to explore how organisations can support women in tech, develop future skills and create workplaces where everyone has the opportunity to succeed.
Whether you are looking to strengthen diversity within your technology teams, improve your approach to skills development or understand how to build a more inclusive workforce, we would love for you to join us.
To register your interest, please follow the links below: