Women in Public Technology

Wednesday, 27th March 2024 | Online

Three million individuals power the UK technology sector. Yet, within this thriving industry, female representation remains stubbornly low -- only 26% of these tech enthusiasts are women, and just 5% find themselves in leadership positions.

There is no exception when it comes to the persistence of the gender gap for women working in public technology. Gender leadership gaps in the traditionally male-dominated field of technology have both visible and invisible barriers that continue to hold women back.  Furthermore, there is marked lack of data and support addressing the specific circumstances of women working in public technology.

The unique Women in Public Technology conference seeks to address this gap and support next-generation female leaders in the sector. The event will bring together current and future leaders from across the sector to examine the role of women in public technology and the current and future challenges to leadership. Over the course of the day, senior leaders will offer guidance, coaching, and inspiration for further developing your career, reaching empowerment and fulfilling your potential.

Why attend?

• Examine the barriers currently facing female leaders (and future leaders) in public technology and hear how to overcome them
• Understand when and how gender plays a role in both organisational and personal advancement
• Learn how successful women negotiate what they need to be effective leaders
• Gain a deeper understanding of the skills, qualities and attributes needed to be a successful leader
• Raise the visibility of women as senior leaders in public technology
• Create a lasting network of women leaders across the sector who are effecting change in public technology

Who should attend?

The Women in Public Technology conference is aimed at all those who aspire to move into a leadership role or those already in a senior role looking to progress. Presentations and workshops offer practical advice and coaching relevant to all women across the public technology sector.

Sponsorship opportunities

Looking for additional exposure to the public sector tech sector? We have a number of sponsorship opportunities perfect for those businesses looking to build a lasting impression within the Women in Public Technology event arena.

Download our sponsorship options pdf now, and decide what’s right for you.

Download sponsorship packages

09:05

Welcome from Dods Events

Kiren Kaur, Diversity, Inclusion & Leadership Portfolio Director

09:10

Chair’s opening address: Examining the role of women in public technology leadership

• Understanding why women are underrepresented in senior positions
• Outlining the cultural and practical obstacles to leadership

CHAIR: Nimmi Patel, Head of Skills, Talent and Diversity, techUK

09.30

Panel Discussion

Addressing key barriers and enablers for women’s career progression

• Leveraging strengths and tapping into the right resources
• Negotiating for what you need to progress your career
• Flexible working: identifying strategies to create the balance you require
• Seeking out mentorship and sponsorship opportunities 

SPEAKER: Laura Bouchard, Trustee, Non-Executive, ex Microsoft & Apple

SPEAKER:  Kellie Kwarteng, Founder and CEO, Halzak; Founder and Host of Elevate -- Women in Tech Podcast

SPEAKER Beckie Taylor, Co-founder, Tech Returners

10:15

Leadership material: How to increase your visibility to position yourself as leader

• Dispelling imposter syndrome and embracing a positive mindset
• Pitching your skills and putting yourself forward
• Identifying your unique skills and priorities to build a personal brand
• Projecting confidence and competence under pressure

SPEAKER: Vanessa Vallely OBE, Chief Executive Officer, WeAreTheCity & WeAreTechWomen

11:00

Comfort Break

11:30

Communicating with confidence: Laying the groundwork to communicate with impact  

• Top tips for delivering your message succinctly and confidently 
• Managing adrenaline to think clearly under pressure 
• Structuring your meetings and preparatory work for maximum effect 

SPEAKER: Cath Baxter, Professional Voice and Public Speaking Consultant & former Head of Voice, Mountview Academy of Theatre Arts

12:30

Managing difficult conversations: Giving and receiving effective feedback in challenging situations

• Personal and external barriers that can prevent successful discussions
• Taking a problem-solving approach to gain positive results
• Holding difficult conversations with confidence
• Key tips and strategies for successfully giving and receiving feedback

SPEAKER: Anita Jakhu, Diversity, Inclusion & Equity Consultant

13:00

Break for Lunch

14:00

Authentic leadership: Finding courage to lead authentically

• Finding the courage to lead authentically

SPEAKER: Bella Powell, Director - Cyber Directorate, Government Security Group (GSG), Cabinet Office

14:30

Panel Discussion

Leading a change in culture: Where do we go from here?  

• Raising the visibility of women as leaders in public technology
• Dispelling expectations around traditional leadership paths and behaviours
• The importance of lifting others as you climb

SPEAKER: Sheridan Ash MBE, Founder and Co-CEO of Tech She Can

SPEAKER: Claire Dellar, Lead Product Manager - Digital Services for Integrated Care, NHS England; Building Self-Belief Trustee

15:30

Chair’s closing remarks

CHAIR: Nimmi Patel, Head of Skills, Talent and Diversity, techUK