In today’s AI-powered economy, data drives every major business decision. Yet women in data remain underrepresented in senior leadership roles, holding only around 22% of data and AI leadership positions (*Alan Turing Institute stats). This imbalance shapes innovation, policy, and the broader cultural environment of the industry.
At SGI, we see a major shift as organisations accelerate their AI and data capability. As our team notes:
“Companies scaling AI functions increasingly recognise the value of diverse data leadership.” — Anna Carey, Executive Consultant
These ten pieces of advice are designed to help you navigate technical environments, increase visibility, and grow your career with confidence.
1. Own Your Data Domain
Deep domain expertise sets you apart. It strengthens decision-making, helps you influence strategy, and positions you as a trusted voice within your organisation. Specialists who understand their area deeply often become the natural go-to leaders for direction and clarity.
2. Speak “Business,” Not Just “SQL”
To influence executive stakeholders, you must translate technical analysis into commercial language. Use clear, structured communication—such as “Finding → Impact → Recommendation”—to position yourself as someone who connects technical output with business value.
3. Build a Network of Data Allies
A strong network is a critical resource for any data career. Mentors, peers, and allies help you navigate challenges and spot new opportunities. Engaging with groups like Women in Data UK or Women in AI broadens your perspective and keeps you connected to the wider industry.
4. Challenge Bias With Data
Bias can manifest in subtle ways—through project allocation, visibility, and even team dynamics. Using data to surface these patterns creates a factual foundation for better policy and fairer decision-making. Small equity audits can make a big difference in advocating for change.
5. Say “I Don’t Know” Confidently
Uncertainty is normal in AI and data work. Communicating transparently and outlining how you will secure the answer builds trust. Leaders who embrace ambiguity with confidence demonstrate maturity, calm, and professionalism in complex environments.
6. Push for Visibility, Not Perfection
Perfectionism is one of the most consistent barriers holding back talented women in AI and data. Sharing work early, presenting drafts, and leading discussions in communities of practice increase your visibility and demonstrate initiative. "At SGI, we see this repeatedly,"
Rebecca, our Marketing Director, highlights. “The people who rise fastest are visible before they feel ready.”
Visibility compounds into influence.
7. Lead With Questions, Not Just Answers
Strong leaders shape thinking through questions. Prompts like “What does success look like?” or “What aspect aren’t we measuring yet?” elevate discussions, unlock assumptions, and show strategic awareness.
8. Mentor Another Woman in Data
Mentorship strengthens both sides of the relationship. Supporting another professional in your field fosters confidence, community, and retention—particularly in fast-moving AI environments where support structures can be limited.
“When women champion women, entire organisations benefit. At SGI, we’ve seen this across our Women Who Lead podcast - real case studies and examples of championing success.” — Josie Rodrigues, Marketing Executive.
Our SGI SuperWomen in Tech Meetup group is focused on driving valuable conversation and action – our community is driven by women in tech looking to grow in their careers – join us. A single conversation can change someone’s trajectory.
9. Negotiate Like a Scientist
Negotiation is not guesswork—it’s analysis. Bring benchmark salary stats, quantified impact, and a clear goal. Presenting evidence-led arguments increases your confidence and your likelihood of securing a promotion or expanded scope.
10. Celebrate Your Unique Perspective
Diverse teams build better AI. Your lived experience, cultural insight, and professional background strengthen decision-making, reduce model bias, and improve fairness. Your perspective isn’t a quota, it’s a competitive advantage that improves product quality and organisational performance.
The Real Barrier? Often, It’s Self-Belief
Whether you aspire to be a future CTO, Head of Data, or senior AI leader, these ten tips will help you build visibility, confidence, and capability. Leadership in data isn’t about knowing everything; it’s about staying curious, being consistent, building a solid network, and taking strategic action.
Whether you’re stepping into your first leadership role or aiming for the executive table, SGI is here to support, elevate, and advocate for your journey. The future of data needs diverse voices, and together we can make it more inclusive, innovative, and unstoppable
Ready to Take the Next Step?
If you’re building a career in data, AI, or analytics, you don’t have to do it alone. At Source Group International, we’re committed to empowering the next generation of female leaders in tech—through community, conversation, and tangible career support.
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Join our SWIT Meetups to connect with women across data, AI, and engineering, share real-world challenges, and build relationships that accelerate growth.
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Attend our leadership events and roundtables, where senior women in tech share practical insights on influence, progression, and navigating AI-driven organisations.
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Partner with SGI for career advisory and leadership hiring, designed to elevate women into senior and executive roles.
Whether you’re stepping into your first leadership position or preparing for the executive table, SGI is here to support, elevate, and advocate for your journey. The future of data and AI needs diverse voices at the table—and together, through action and community, we can build a more inclusive, innovative, and unstoppable industry.
