Shivani Sharma, CMO – Marketing MARCOM, Embee Software Pvt. Ltd talks about development programs for women, gender-neutral hiring practices, and merit-based transparent promotion criteria.
Could you share your journey to becoming a CMO in the tech industry, specifically in marketing? What motivated or inspired you to pursue a career in marketing within the tech sector?
My career journey is a story of adaptability and a deep-rooted passion for technology. I began as a TV presenter and journalist, a role that allowed me to express my opinions and ideas. My academic background in journalism and mass communication was the foundation of my communication skills. A significant turning point was my move to Hyderabad, coinciding with my marriage. It was a blessing in disguise, as Hyderabad’s bustling IT scene opened new doors for me.
My skills in scriptwriting and public relations led me to a content writing role in an IT company, marking my entry into the tech sector. My mentors played a crucial role in helping me understand the complexities of technology, including cloud computing. This curiosity and understanding led to a transition into a technical writer role.
A major milestone in my career was working on the Obamacare HIX implementation in the U.S., which deepened my passion for technology and led me to further opportunities in the tech sector upon my return to Delhi.
As a woman in a leadership position within tech marketing, have you faced any specific challenges, and how have you navigated them?
As a woman in tech marketing leadership, I’ve faced challenges beyond time. Navigating a predominantly male-dominated industry, overcoming implicit biases, and finding my voice in strategic decisions have been part of my journey. Assertiveness and confidence are crucial in such environments. Balancing professional growth with personal life, especially with caregiving responsibilities, is a significant challenge that requires robust support systems within organizations.
How do you see the intersection of marketing and technology evolving, and what opportunities does this present for women in the field? Are there specific innovations or trends in marketing technology that you find particularly exciting or impactful?
I see the intersection of marketing and technology, particularly AI, as a transformative force. AI’s ability to analyze vast amounts of data has revolutionized our marketing strategies, making them more targeted and effective. This shift from traditional to data-driven, AI-powered strategies has opened new opportunities for personalized customer engagement. Using AI in predictive analytics, customer segmentation, and personalized content creation has made our marketing campaigns more efficient and impactful.
How do you believe companies can better promote diversity and inclusion, especially for women in tech? Have you implemented or seen successful strategies for fostering inclusivity in tech workplaces?
We, as an organisation, advocate for creating an inclusive culture that extends beyond hiring practices. This includes mentorship programs, leadership training, and career development opportunities tailored for women. Policies supporting work-life balance, like flexible working hours and parental leave, are crucial. These initiatives help retain women in the workforce and inspire them to take up leadership roles.
What steps do you think are crucial in bridging the gender gap in the tech industry? Are there specific initiatives or programs that you believe have been effective in encouraging more women to enter the tech field?
To address the gender gap in tech, we must start with education and awareness. Encouraging girls to pursue STEM education early on, offering scholarships, and creating mentorship programs are key. In the workplace, leadership development programs for women, gender-neutral hiring practices, and merit-based transparent promotion criteria are something most organisations are adopting and results are getting there as well. Partnering with organizations focused on increasing women’s participation in tech can also have a significant impact.
How do you see the role of women in tech evolving in the coming years? Are there any emerging trends or technologies that you believe will significantly impact the opportunities for women in tech?
I am optimistic about the evolving role of women in tech. Women like Sheryl Sandberg, Padmasree Warrior, and Mira Murati are making a significant mark with their contributions to the industry. I strongly feel that more such stories need to be shared in the ecosystem. It will be inspirational to know their journeys, the challenges they faced, and how they overcame those challenges. I foresee more women taking up roles not only in technical fields but also in leadership, decision-making, innovation, sales, and marketing. The increasing visibility of women in tech leadership positions can inspire a new generation of women to pursue technology careers. This change will likely bring more gender-sensitive products and services, as diverse teams bring diverse perspectives.
In your role, how do you leverage technology to drive marketing strategies, and how do you see these tools evolving in the future?
In my role, I leverage technology, especially AI, to enhance our marketing strategies. This includes using AI for customer data analysis, market trend predictions, and personalized marketing campaigns. AI tools automate routine tasks, allowing us to focus on creative and strategic aspects of marketing. The ongoing advancements in machine learning and natural language processing are making these tools even more integral to our marketing efforts.
What kind of support or policies do you think organizations should have in place to encourage more women to thrive in tech roles? Have you seen any innovative approaches from companies that effectively support women in tech?
I believe organizations should implement supportive policies and create environments where women can thrive. This includes mentorship programs, leadership training, and opportunities for networking and professional development. Creating a culture of inclusivity where everyone feels valued and empowered to contribute their best is essential.
