EXECUTIVE INSIGHT
Google Cloud is at the forefront of leveraging cutting-edge technologies like cloud computing and artificial intelligence ( AI ) to drive digital transformation for businesses across industries . Leading this charge in the UK and Ireland is Helen Kelisky , Managing Director of Google Cloud for the region .
Previously leading Salesforce ’ s cloud sales organisation in the UK and heading up IBM ’ s Cloud business unit , Helen has over 30 years of experience in the tech industry and shares her unique perspective as a female leader in the male-dominated tech world , and offers her vision for the future of cloud and AI .
In this exclusive interview with Technology Magazine , Helen highlights the crucial role that emerging technologies like AI will play in driving innovation and transforming businesses , and underscores the significance of diversity , equity and inclusion in the development and deployment of AI .
Q . CAN YOU TELL US ABOUT YOUR ROLE AT GOOGLE CLOUD TODAY ?
» As Google Cloud ’ s Managing Director for UK & Ireland , my role is all about fostering Google Cloud ’ s sales strategy and go-to-market operation across the region .
My role at Google Cloud is extremely diverse and no two days are ever the same ! However , the key driver behind my work is to support customers and partners in accelerating their digital transformation journeys . This is what defines my role , and our wider purpose as a company .
“Teams become stronger by not only recruiting diverse talent but in challenging the limitations of the team and playing to their unique set of strengths ”
Q . WHAT ARE SOME OF THE UNIQUE EXPERIENCES AND CHALLENGES YOU ’ VE FACED AS A FEMALE TECH LEADER ?
» It is no secret that the tech industry is very male-dominated . As a woman who has been in the industry for over 30 years , there have certainly been some challenges along the way . The most defining challenge in my career was deciding to leave a company after three decades .
However , I realised that I needed to embrace the change to learn new things and find new interests along the way . I think for women in such a fast-paced industry , it is important that we continue to value our personal growth , and are permanently in search of novel ideas .
Something that has been instrumental in shaping my experience is the network of strong women I have surrounded myself with . Being a member of Women in Telecoms and Technology ( WiTT ) has
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