Tech leader Sabine Patricia Haas gives career advice in honour of IWD

Haas’s career began in the fast-paced world of advertising, where she worked with leading global agencies. However, her curiosity and passion for data-driven strategies led her to the B2B sector, where she spent 17 years gaining expertise in global marketing, e-commerce, and digital strategy. During her time at DigiKey, Haas has applied her deep understanding of data insights to develop targeted marketing programmes that resonate with engineers and technical buyers. She approaches challenges with an open mindset and refuses to let anything hold her back. 

“Admitting you don’t already have the answer leads to deeper analysis, better decision-making, and more innovative solutions,” Haas notes. “I strongly believe that I can achieve anything when I truly put my mind to it.”

As the technology sector evolves, Haas continues to be a strong advocate for increasing the representation of women in the industry. She believes meaningful progress begins with early exposure to successful female role models and STEM subjects in schools.

Additionally, Haas highlights the importance of mentorship. Haas believes giving women access to mentors who can offer guidance, support, and open doors for career opportunities is of utmost importance.

Haas has been inspired by female leaders at DigiKey throughout her career. One of her first managers was Stacy Hartmann, Director of Sales and Support in the Americas. According to Haas, Hartmann is open-minded and supportive and ensures her team has the resources and connections needed to succeed. Another inspiration is Linda Johnson, Executive Vice President of Operations. Johnson’s knowledge, leadership, and dedication to supporting others have had a lasting impact on Haas.

“More women in leadership roles need to share their career journeys,” Haas says. “Visibility and storytelling play a powerful role in encouraging others to step forward and pursue careers in technology.”

Haas also advocates for companies to foster inclusive cultures that promote equal pay, career advancement, and diversity of all types.

“The future of tech depends on creating spaces where diverse perspectives drive innovation,” says Haas.

Her commitment to supporting future leaders extends beyond her corporate role. As a mentor and coach at Imperial College London, Haas supports emerging leaders, helping them navigate career decisions and develop their leadership skills through insightful advice. Some of Haas’s best advice for young leaders includes the following:

• Stay curious – keep learning, ask questions, and embrace new opportunities.
• Don't apologise or make yourself small. Be proud of your achievements. You’ve done the work and earned them, so own them with confidence!
• Support others – championing one another is key. Be an ally, celebrate achievements, and help create opportunities for others.
• Surround yourself with people who inspire and support you. Success isn’t just about working hard, it’s about having advocates who recognise your potential, challenge you to grow, and actively support your career development.

Haas is also an active member and co-host of the Frankfurt, Germany chapter of Imperial’s Alumni Network. Furthermore, Haas is dedicated to WE United. This global organisation unites men and women and promotes gender parity across the electronics ecosystem. As a driving force behind the initiative for DigiKey in EMEA, Haas works to promote opportunities for mentorship, leadership development, and diversity advocacy across the region.

As International Women’s Day shines a spotlight on the importance of gender equality in technology, Sabine Patricia Haas continues to champion diversity, innovation, and the power of inclusive leadership – inspiring the next generation of women to pursue careers in technology and to embrace every opportunity with curiosity, confidence, and courage.