90% of women love tech, yet 90% face gender bias

The findings were revealed in AND Digital's new 'Rewards & Resilience' report, which surveyed 200+ women leaders in tech roles to highlight the successes and challenges of being a leader in the industry.

The report is endorsed by Dame Stephanie Shirley, author of 'Let It Go', who commented: "This report celebrates the achievements and accomplishments of senior female professionals; suggests a pathway for more women to achieve senior roles and it provides a roadmap for a more gender-diverse tech industry."

The report highlighted significant economic opportunities and potential for independence that a career in tech has to offer, juxtaposed against persistent gender bias. Almost 90% of women leaders love their work, with four in five feeling they have succeeded in their role. Interestingly, only 3% had considered leaving their tech role.

However, the dual experience of women in tech was showcased by 90% having faced gender bias and over 60% having experienced gender discrimination.

It was found that women have been disproportionately disadvantaged by the pandemic and cost-of-living. In a tech industry that can offer enormous financial, intellectual, career and wellbeing rewards, women occupy just 24% of roles, dropping to a worryingly low 5% in leadership positions. There are two million vacancies in the UK tech sector worth £150 billion to the UK economy.

In terms of rewards, job satisfaction among women in tech is high, with 89% stating they enjoy their job, while 79% stating they've succeeded in their role.

However, women have had to show continued resilience to thrive in the sector, with 10% still experiencing bias and discrimination regularly. Nearly 80% admitted that they have encountered challenges on their journey to becoming a leader. While women in enterprise businesses are more likely to feel unsupported by their organisations in terms of resources and opportunities for upskilling compared to smaller businesses.

Wendy Stonefield, London Hub Executive at AND Digital, said: "There's been huge progress if you look at the focus on bringing female talent through organisations. But I think in some cases it is forced, a case of people having to demonstrate progress because clients are demanding it. People need to be much more aware of the cultures they create and recognise that bringing real diversity to the table is no longer optional."

'Rewards & Resilience' is the latest in a series of measures by AND to champion the role of women in tech roles. The company is rolling out initiatives to support women in tech, including a dedicated women-in-tech community, the AND She Can programme, and truly flexible working policies.