The inaugural Microsoft Power Women in Tech Awards

Gillian O’Sullivan, Country Leader of BearingPoint Ireland has been announced as the winner of the inaugural Microsoft Power Women in Tech Awards for Ireland. These awards were created to recognise and support women in our partner organisations in Western Europe who are reaching new heights in the industry and are champions of diversity and inclusion.  Announced in March, there have been more than 150 nominations across 11 countries.

Winners are invited to join a bespoke Women Leaders Executive Programme developed and led by Jennifer Petriglieri, Associate Professor of Organizational Behaviour at INSEAD.

Gillian received this award for prioritising Diversity and Inclusion and CSR activities, focusing on female acceleration and balanced recruitment in her organisation. She is a visible leader who shares her story to inspire others.

“As leaders in organisations, being visible role models, sharing the story of our journey and encouraging others to do the same is key. Doing so provides space for reflection and has the power to inspire others to take the next step in their own journey.” – Gillian O’Sullivan, Country Leader of BearingPoint Ireland

Martina Naughton, Microsoft Ireland Global Partner Sales Director said: “Equal representation of women in the tech industry is an issue that affects every business. There is an array of research that shows diverse teams are more innovative and effective. However, according to CSO figures (2022), less than one-third of Ireland’s ICT workers are women.”

Naughton added, “In addition, only 21 per cent of women in Europe surveyed believe that the technology industry is one that they can thrive in (Accenture) – so we need to change this perception if we are going to collectively address these issues, not only in Ireland but across Europe, and ensure we continue innovating at pace. We created this awards programme to provide career advancement opportunities to women succeeding in the tech industry – and, as importantly, to inspire all women in the field.”

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