An Interview With
Katy Upton

IT is a sector where innovation thrives and progress is relentless, Katy Upton stands as a beacon of female leadership, breaking stereotypes and paving the way for a more inclusive industry. As the HR & Finance Director at Fortitude Nicsa Global, she brings not only technical prowess but also a unique perspective that celebrates diversity and challenges traditional norms. In this exclusive interview, we delve into her journey, insights, and the profound benefits of being a female leader in the IT sector.

Q: Katy, thank you for joining us. Let’s start with your background. How did your journey in the IT sector begin?

A: Thank you for having me. My journey in IT actually began quite unexpectedly. Growing up, I was always intrigued by technology, but I never saw it as a viable career path, mainly because of the lack of representation of women in the field. However, one of my first ever roles was the implementation and strategy of ERP systems for businesses, I found the whole process fascinating how a piece of software can drastically change how a business functions and the benefits it brought to people. From there I gradually made my way up the ranks through various roles in different tech companies.

Q: As a female leader in a predominantly male-dominated sector, what challenges have you faced, and how have you overcome them?

A: The challenges have been plentiful, to say the least. In the early stages of my career, I often found myself being underestimated or overlooked simply because of my gender. I had to work twice as hard to prove my worth and earn the respect of my peers. Additionally, there were times when I felt isolated, lacking the support and mentorship that male counterparts seemed to effortlessly access.

However, I chose to view these challenges as opportunities for growth rather than setbacks. I sought out allies within the industry, both male and female, who believed in my capabilities and offered invaluable guidance. Moreover, I made a conscious effort to challenge the status quo, advocating for diversity and inclusion in every space I entered. Over time, I realised that my unique perspective as a woman in tech was not a hindrance but rather a strength that set me apart.

Q: That’s incredibly inspiring. Now, let’s discuss the benefits. From your experience, what advantages do female leaders bring to the IT sector?

A: Female leaders bring a multitude of advantages to the IT sector, primarily stemming from our diverse perspectives and leadership styles. Firstly, we possess a high degree of emotional intelligence, which enables us to foster strong interpersonal relationships and create cohesive teams. In a field driven by collaboration and innovation, this trait is invaluable.

Furthermore, female leaders often approach problem-solving with a different lens, emphasising empathy and inclusivity. This allows us to address issues from various angles, leading to more comprehensive and effective solutions. Additionally, our ability to navigate ambiguity and adapt to change is particularly beneficial in the ever-evolving landscape of technology.

Moreover, the presence of female leaders in IT serves as a powerful representation for aspiring women in the industry. By breaking barriers and shattering stereotypes, we inspire the next generation of female technologists to pursue their passions fearlessly.

Q: That’s a compelling perspective. How can organisations cultivate an environment that fosters the growth and success of female leaders in the IT sector?

A: Cultivating an inclusive environment requires a concerted effort from both organisational leadership and individual employees. Firstly, companies must prioritise diversity and inclusion initiatives, not merely as a box to check but as a fundamental aspect of their culture. This includes implementing unbiased hiring practices, providing equal opportunities for career advancement, and fostering mentorship programs specifically tailored to women in tech.

Additionally, it’s essential to cultivate a supportive workplace culture where all voices are heard and valued. This may involve establishing employee resource groups, hosting diversity training sessions, and promoting open communication channels.

On an individual level, male allies play a crucial role in championing gender equality within the workplace. By actively advocating for female colleagues, challenging unconscious biases, and serving as mentors, they contribute to the collective effort of creating a more inclusive industry.

Q: What advice would you give to aspiring female leaders in the IT sector?

A: My advice to aspiring female leaders in the IT sector is simple yet profound: believe in yourself and never underestimate your worth. The road may be challenging, filled with obstacles and doubters, but perseverance and resilience will carry you through. Seek out mentors who can offer guidance and support, and don’t be afraid to assert yourself in male-dominated spaces.

Moreover, embrace your unique perspective as a woman in tech. Your diversity is not a weakness but a strength that sets you apart. Trust in your abilities, stay true to your values, and remember that you have the power to enact meaningful change in the industry.

Q: Thank you, Katy, for sharing your insights and experiences with us. Your journey serves as an inspiration to aspiring female leaders everywhere.

A: Thank you for having me. It’s been a pleasure to share my story, and I hope it encourages others to pursue their passions unapologetically. We can continue to break barriers and redefine what it means to be a female leader in the IT sector.