Kearney: Report Highlights how to Tackle the Tech Gender Gap

In an era where technology shapes nearly every aspect of our lives, the gender gap in the tech industry stands as a reminder of the work still needed to achieve true equality. A recent report by global consultancy Kearney, in partnership with UN Women UK, has shed light on this critical issue and proposed actionable solutions to close the gender divide in tech.

The tech sector has long been dominated by men, with women significantly underrepresented in both technical roles and leadership positions. This disparity not only limits the industry's potential for innovation but also perpetuates broader societal inequalities. According to research conducted by Women in Tech, women make up only about a quarter of the tech workforce in developed countries, with even lower representation in leadership roles and among startup founders.

The roots of this gender gap run deep, often beginning in early education and extending throughout women's careers. Girls are less likely to be encouraged to pursue STEM subjects in school, and those who do enter tech fields often face challenges such as bias, lack of mentorship and inflexible work environments that fail to accommodate caregiving responsibilities.

The roots of this gender gap run deep, often beginning in early education and extending throughout women's careers. Girls are less likely to be encouraged to pursue STEM subjects in school, and those who do enter tech fields often face challenges such as bias, lack of mentorship and inflexible work environments that fail to accommodate caregiving responsibilities.

Education, employment and government policy: Tackling the technology gender gap

Kearney's ‘Gap to Gateway: Diversity in Tech as the Key to the Future’ report takes a comprehensive approach to addressing these issues, focusing on three key areas: education, employment and government policy. By targeting these interconnected spheres, the industry can work towards creating a more inclusive and diverse tech ecosystem.

In education, the report emphasises the importance of early intervention to inspire and enable more women to pursue STEM careers. This includes removing bias from curricula, increasing access to technology subjects for all children, and providing relatable role models. The goal is to create a strong pipeline of talented women entering the tech workforce, addressing the root of the gender disparity.

For employers and investors, the focus shifts to attracting and retaining women in tech roles. The report suggests tailoring recruitment strategies, ensuring equal pay practices and offering flexible working arrangements. It also highlights the importance of improving access to funding for women-led tech startups, as female founders currently receive only a fraction of venture capital funding compared to their male counterparts.

Government policy also plays a crucial role in driving systemic change. The report calls for policies that encourage equal participation in tech roles and leadership positions, as well as initiatives to increase STEM uptake among girls and young women. By creating a supportive framework for gender equality, policymakers can help level the playing field in the tech sector.

Ramyani Basu, Digital and Analytics Practice and Global Lead at Kearney, underscores the urgency of addressing this issue: “With new technologies like AI continuing to evolve rapidly, it’s crucial to address these inequalities before they widen the gap between men and women in the tech industry further. 

“Our report calls upon tech firms, employers, the government and investors to close the UK’s tech gender gap through a clear, collaborative approach. Technology products and services need to be truly inclusive by design, ensuring there is place for everyone in the ecosystem, regardless of gender, race, age or any other social characteristic.”

Tabitha Morton, Executive Director UN Women UK, added: “As a result of the women-shaped gap in the technology sector we miss out on vital innovation, talent and receive products that have inbuilt bias and often don’t deliver for 50% of the population. There is an urgent need for strategies to foster diversity and inclusion within this pivotal industry. We call upon all organisations to activate these changes, building and sustaining a more diverse and inclusive tech sector. Together, we can bridge the gender gap and unlock the full potential of the UK’s technology industry for everyone."

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