Salesforce has been named headline partner for the everywoman in Technology Awards, under a sponsorship agreement linking the software company with AllBright everywoman's long-running programme recognising women across the UK technology sector.
This year's event will be branded the Salesforce everywoman in Technology Awards, with winners to be announced at a ceremony in London.
Now in their 16th year, the awards position themselves as a platform for women at different career stages, from apprentices to senior executives. AllBright everywoman said the partnership will increase the focus on visible role models in technology and encourage interest in science, technology, engineering and maths careers.
Gender gap
The announcement comes amid continued scrutiny of gender balance in UK technology and STEM roles. Women account for 24.8% of the total STEM workforce, according to figures cited by the organisers, compared with 29.4% in 2020 based on government data referenced in the awards material.
Representation is also uneven in newer areas linked to artificial intelligence and data. Women make up 22% of UK AI and data professionals, according to UK Research and Innovation, as cited by the organisers.
AllBright everywoman also cited research on how different groups prioritise ethical values in AI systems. A study associated with the ACM FAccT Conference found women are up to 5% more likely than men to prioritise values such as privacy, safety, accountability, fairness and human autonomy in AI systems.
Salesforce said its involvement forms part of a broader focus on careers and progression for women in technology. The company markets itself as an AI CRM provider and has placed increased emphasis on AI features across its product portfolio.
Awards programme
The everywoman in Technology Awards sit within AllBright everywoman's broader learning and development activity. AllBright everywoman was formed through the union of AllBright and everywoman, combining corporate programmes with a consumer platform. The organisation said its community reaches more than 500,000 women worldwide.
Everywoman was established in 1999 and has worked with corporate partners on initiatives supporting women's progression at work. AllBright has developed a separate platform offering content, events and networking, both online and offline.
The technology awards are one of several sector initiatives run by the organisation. They aim to raise the visibility of women working in technology and to show career pathways for those entering the sector or considering a switch.
Nicole Goodwin and Sophie Catto, Joint Managing Directors of AllBright everywoman, linked the partnership to the role of storytelling and profile-raising in the technology labour market.
"Sharing the stories of the women who are reshaping our world through technology sends a clear message to young women and career switchers that there is space for them in this sector. Salesforce's commitment to ensuring women are entering the industry and thriving as they move through their careers makes them the perfect partner for everywoman's Technology Awards programme," said Nicole Goodwin and Sophie Catto, Joint Managing Directors, AllBright everywoman.
Salesforce UK & Ireland said visibility has become more important as AI tools are used in decisions with significant personal and economic impact.
"As AI increasingly powers high-stakes decisions, from loan approvals to hiring, it is essential that more women enter and advance in the technology industry to prevent perpetuating societal biases. Elevating the profile of women in the industry is more important than ever to highlight their essential work and encourage interest in STEM careers. We cannot be what we cannot see, which is why Salesforce is proud to sponsor and celebrate the everywoman in Technology Awards," said Zahra Bahrololoumi CBE, Chief Executive Officer, Salesforce UK & Ireland.
The ceremony is scheduled to take place at The Westminster Park Plaza Hotel in London.