Anna Assassa

Anna Assassa

Role: Founder and CEO, Tisski.

What does Tisski specialise in?

Tisski is one of the UK's leading Microsoft Gold Partners, Inner Circle Member and Cloud Solutions Providers of award-winning Microsoft Dynamics CRM & ERP software. We provides a full range of professional services, from requirements gathering to bespoke development, training and ongoing project support. We have grown to a team of over 170 people and a have a diverse customer base that spans the public, private and 3rd sectors. Customers include Ministry of Defence, NHS Business Services Authority, Department for Education, Metropolitan Police and National Audit Office.

Do you feel the outlook for women in the industry has changed at all in the last four years?

The IT and tech industry, and business as a whole, has done a great deal to highlight the opportunities and career paths available to women who want to get into, or grow within the sector.

This is a sector that moves fast, and businesses must continue to evolve at pace to inspire the leaders of tomorrow by nurturing a culture and environment whereby anyone can thrive without fear of discrimination.

There has been a noticeable positive shift in the diversity deficit, but there is still much more to do.

Does the industry have a diversity problem, and if so, why does this matter?

The IT and tech industry is not alone in terms of the diversity deficit. What is pleasing to see is the measures and positive steps the sector has taken to encourage more girls and women to pursue a career in the industry.

For example, the investment organisations are making in Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths (STEM) programmes is not insignificant.

I am a firm believer that if you do not have a diverse organisation, you do not have the ability to engage with a diverse range of people. This results in less innovative thinking and a siloed mentality to problem solving.

Tisski's approach to working with our customers has always been one of partnership and collaboration. We would not be able to take that approach if our team were not diverse.

We are truly passionate about empowering our people and equipping them with the skills and knowledge they need to be the best they can be, which ultimately delivers a much better outcome for our customers.

With CDW and Insight recently appointing female CEOs (alongside Crayon and Avanade), three of the top four global IT solutions providers are now female led. Is this a positive sign for the industry?

Without doubt, seeing more diverse role models such as Christine, Joyce, Melissa, Pamela and Clare Barclay at Microsoft appointed to the position of CEO provides inspiration and proof that achieving your dreams can become a reality.

Seeing more diverse role models such as Christine, Joyce, Melissa, Pamela and Clare Barclay at Microsoft appointed to the position of CEO provides inspiration

But make no mistake, these individuals are appointed on merit and have earned their respective positions. They have shown the determination and the characteristics required to lead top global IT organisations.