Penny Williams, Vice President of Sales for CDW UK & International
How would you summarise your role?
As the Vice President of Sales for CDW UK & International, I lead the development and execution of innovative sales strategies across our high-performing teams.
Do you feel the industry’s gender-diversity deficit something that needs to be highlighted and addressed?
Yes, gender diversity in tech is still a major issue but something we continue to challenge ourselves – and the industry – on. There is more we can all do to make tech more accessible and appealing to women around the world.
Statistics consistently demonstrate that diverse teams not only perform better but also foster innovation. Moreover, when women hold leadership positions, it sends a powerful message of inclusion and plays a crucial role in shaping organisational culture. At CDW, we are fortunate to have inspirational leaders like our Global Chair, President & Chief Executive Officer, and our Chief Commercial & Operating Officer, both of whom are empowered women making significant contributions and driving our success. Their leadership exemplifies our commitment to fostering an inclusive and diverse workplace where everyone can thrive and succeed, regardless of gender or any other defining characteristic.
What’s it like being a female leader in what remains a male-dominated industry?
“On reflection I realise I used to normalise some behaviours directed towards me in workplace as a woman in tech,”
Penny Williams, CDW
I have been in the industry for more years than I care to remember. On reflection I realise I used to normalise some behaviours directed towards me in workplace as a woman in tech. The good news is things have changed and continue to change. Here at CDW we uphold a respectful workplace and encourage our co-workers to speak out against these types of behaviours which has created a more meaningful change and fosters equity, diversity, and inclusion. I have personally been extremely fortunate that I have consistently had wonderful mentors and role models who believed in me and encouraged me to believe in myself.
Is the industry as welcoming and accessible to women as it could be?
I take pride in being part of CDW, where women hold significant roles throughout the organisation. We prioritise championing women from top to bottom, and our comprehensive DEI strategy is dedicated to nurturing a diverse, equitable, and inclusive environment across all aspects of our business. Our goal is to cultivate talent pipelines that emphasise capability and embrace diversity. However, I acknowledge that, like many in the tech industry, we still have significant strides to make towards achieving complete gender parity.
Do you think the industry has made any headway on recruiting, retaining and promoting women over the last five years?
Yes, but merely increasing the recruitment of women in technical positions is not sufficient. Transformation needs to stem from company practices and policies, which may inadvertently favour certain employee groups. It is imperative for companies to establish and nurture an inclusive and diverse workforce that values everyone irrespective of factors such as gender, religion, age, background, and personal beliefs. CDW’s Women’s International Network (WIN) has the ambition for 50% gender split, 50% female promotions, and 50% female hires through fostering an inclusive culture to retain female talent, a women in leadership development programme, and by building an inclusive recruitment strategy.
What’s your top piece of advice for women following in your footsteps?
Be brave, be curious, be passionate, be dedicated always striving for more, never be satisfied!
