International Women’s Day 2025

International Women’s Day (IWD) is celebrated on 8 March each year. It was first recognised by the UN in 1977 and still is a timely reminder of the importance to encourage a more balanced gender representation across all walks of life and industry segments. 

The disparity in gender representation affects certain sectors more significantly – as is the case for science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) related industries.

According to the 2024 World Economic Forum’s (WEF) Global Gender Gap Report, the IT sector has one of the largest gender gaps in economic participation and opportunity. Women represent a mere 28.2% of the tech workforce globally, and 22% in Europe, highlighting a substantial underrepresentation in an industry which is rewarding and thriving.

Globally, women hold 32.0% of senior management positions in the tech sector, below other industries such as professional services (36.2%), asset management (35.5%), and healthcare (37.7%).

Yet, research indicates that gender diversity within a workforce can lead to improved productivity, as diverse teams with different perspectives tend to generate more innovative ideas, solve problems more effectively, and make better decisions, ultimately boosting overall performance within an organization.  

We need to continue to encourage women to break the mould and buck this trend, overcoming perceived limitations and considering roles and sectors seldom chosen.

It takes confidence and self-belief to target a less traditional role, but it can be a first step onto a route to self-fulfillment and recognition. As Kristiina Leppanen, CFO of the Infinigate Group reminds us:

Don’t be afraid, trust your instincts and embrace your unique strengths – be confident! Don’t hesitate to take risks; they often lead to the most rewarding experiences.

Kristiina Leppanen

Chief Financial Officer

It’s worth remembering you don’t have to do it all on your own; a strong support network can help build your confidence along the way. Coaches and mentors can play a pivotal role in supporting us when making key decisions or taking that all important leap towards the next chapter in our lives or careers, as Kristiina confirms: “I have been fortunate to have great mentors and supervisors throughout my career who have provided valuable guidance and support. They have seen a potential in myself and provided great opportunities. Their insights have helped me navigate through challenges and seize opportunities.” Positive, inspiring role models can work wonders!

Andrea Horton, Director of Marketing at Infinigate UK sees an opportunity for women to role-model new leadership styles:

In the fast-paced and ever-changing IT industry, change presents exciting opportunities. I encourage women to seize every chance to step forward into roles that amplify their voices and influence. I urge all women to build diverse networks, and, most importantly, inspire the next generation by role-modelling positive management and approachable leadership styles.

Andrea Horton

Marketing Director

Having an open mind and always being ready to learn is a must, enabling the kind of resilience needed to succeed. Kristiina advocates continuous learning as a way to keep an agile mindset and adapt to our fast-evolving world: “Never underestimate the power of continuous learning; staying curios and open to new ideas makes a difference.”

As Infinigate’s CFO explains, organisations can support the advancement of women in the workplace: from mentoring programmes to help build connections between emerging talent and experienced leaders, to promoting flexible work arrangements that can help balance personal and professional commitments, to creating a culture that values diversity and encourages open dialogue to empower women to contribute their unique perspectives and ideas.