photographer: carly wollaert © | make-up artist: larizza nieto guzman from art of colors
marlene de koning
director workforce transformation | data & technology at pwc
about
i am a director within pwc’s workforce strategy transformation & technology team. i lead a team of brilliant hr tech and data specialists, who help clients drive workforce transformations, create data-driven strategies, and implement innovative technologies. i am also an author of hr tech strategy. this book delves into the rapidly evolving landscape of hr technology and provides valuable insights and strategies for leveraging technology to drive hr success. further i am a mentor for start- ups, an advocate for equality, and a public speaker. i live in rijswijk in the netherlands with my husband, two energetic teenagers and six chickens.
what qualities do you think are essential for success?
i think several qualities are essential for pursuing a career in tech, regardless of gender. it is important to not only focus on your hard skills but also on your soft skills to be resilient in the everchanging world of work. women also benefit from being central in their networks, for women to achieve an executive position with the highest level of authority and pay, they should also have an inner circle of close female contacts. lastly, i am a true believer of a brag book. keeping tabs on compliments so you can share that with your sponsor or during a performance review.
pwc
it’s our people who make the difference. we all come from different backgrounds and cultures. by looking beyond our own professional expertise, valuing differences and being inclusive and diverse, we work together effectively to develop sustained outcomes for our clients.
unfortunately, the gender gap in the world is still real. role models are a source of inspiration for individuals and encourage them to pursue their passions. it is important to pwc to contribute to more visibility of role models and to empower women by showing that there are no limits to what they can achieve.