Yanina RohovskaSpring’s arrival feels like New Year’s: everyone buzzes with fresh plans and eagerly anticipates change. It’s a good time to start anew, right? If you forget about tax season for a bit, of course.
And speaking of changes: have you noticed that the previously male-dominated tech industry is also shifting its traditional gears? With AdTech leading the charge, women now comprise more than half of its workforce. Consider the IAB Tech Lab—the largest non-profit consortium for developing digital ad standards and our trusted partner—which boasts a team that is over 50% female. TeqBlaze pushes that idea beyond, with our women-driven powerhouse reaching 53% in general and 50% in leadership positions, including our very own CEO.
However, numbers alone are never going to tell the full story. Isn’t it better to let real people talk instead? In collaboration with the Women in Programmatic Network, we engaged with several female leaders in AdTech, inviting them to share their professional insights, goals, and wishes.
New future for AdTech
For too long, women have been hesitant to seek out leadership roles in adtech because they feel they don’t have the right skills, don’t fit in certain teams (e.g. Sales), are nervous about networking in often male-dominated rooms (yes, even in 2025), or cannot easily network out of hours as a primary caregiver.
This is slowly changing, not least because as an industry, we are realising that women do in fact bring the right skills to the table. Research shows that women demonstrate high emotional intelligence, have awesome people skills, and value transparency in their working relationships.
And let’s not forget, this isn’t just about women. Some of the best allies I’ve had the pleasure of working with in adtech over the last ten years have been men. For instance, Rob Beeler actively seeks out opportunities for women to get on stage and challenge the status quo, bringing a more diverse perspective to the topics we live and breathe in adtech. It’s men like these who I can visibly see in everyday conversation, championing people like me who are trying to make a name for themselves. That respect - that wasn’t there ten years ago - is certainly palpable today and it’s great to see it growing.
Hazel Broadley, Content Lead at Women in Programmatic Network
Women’s leadership in ad tech isn’t just about diversity—it’s about driving innovation, creating inclusive solutions, and building a more equitable digital ecosystem. Each International Women’s Day is a chance for us to celebrate those women who came before us, paved the way and empowered the next generation to push boundaries and bring about meaningful change.
Jo Rosamilia, Director, Partner Marketing & Demand Generation at ID5
There used to be a stereotype that sensitivity, emotionality, empathy, and compassion—qualities often associated with women (and which I associate with myself)—could hinder their career growth. Some time ago, I reflected on this idea, but ultimately, my experience in the AdTech industry in general, and at TeqBlaze in particular, proves that this is absolutely not the case. On the contrary, these qualities truly help build strong teams, foster meaningful professional and personal relationships with colleagues and partners, put ourselves in others’ shoes, and provide the best possible client service. So, dear women, never let stereotypical judgments define you—remember that you can be whoever you choose to be and still build a remarkable career.
Lilia Matsokha, VP of Client Services at TeqBlaze
Women leadership brings new perspectives
The narrative shouldn’t be men versus women, rather it should focus on the strength and prosperity that we can achieve together as a team. There’s a growing number of studies and statistics that highlight the level of success companies are beginning to realize by gaining women as assets within leadership. This isn’t isolated to increased revenue alone, although that’s a great plus; studies are also demonstrating the impact women in leadership have when it comes to company culture, career growth and development across teams, as well as new levels of creativity and innovation fostered by driving inclusive environments where all voices are welcome. At the end of the day, it isn’t about equality and inclusivity alone, as much as understanding why inclusiveness is important in order for all of us to grow together so we can all win together.
Jessica Werner, Senior Director, Publisher Operations at ID5
Women's leadership is crucial in the digital space. It brings diverse perspectives and innovative ideas, offering fresh views on projects, people, and the way colleagues collaborate. Female leaders are instrumental not just within their companies or industries but also in shaping broader societal change. These inspiring individuals demonstrate that women’s voices can—and should—be heard and valued.
Over recent years, I've noticed a rise in female leadership within the digital sector, and this is a clear indicator that women’s leadership is not only necessary but transformative. Women leaders prove time and time again that they can deliver business success just as effectively as their male counterparts. I see these women as strong, compassionate, and highly skilled individuals with a deep sense of purpose and unmatched drive.
Many of the fastest-growing companies today are led by female founders. This trend underscores the importance of women in leadership roles, showcasing their ability to guide companies toward success and innovation. Women leaders bring a unique and essential strength to the table, and it's a critical part of the future of the digital world and beyond.
Sophie Toth, Programmatic Partnership Manager at Rakuten Viber
I consider myself fortunate to have had the guidance of female AdTech leaders as mentors. They taught me the importance of strategic thinking and adaptability. Female leaders I know can be resolute when necessary while fostering a supportive and encouraging environment. This is important. This experience uncovers the critical role of diversity in our industry, highlighting that diversity can be a source of new approaches, ideas, and support we all need.
Nadiia Hrabivska, VP of Client Growth at TeqBlaze
Looking ahead with confidence
The progress women have made in AdTech is undeniable, but the journey is far from over. Representation is increasing, barriers are breaking, and diverse voices are reshaping the industry. That being said, true equality isn’t just about numbers—it’s about opportunity, leadership, and support. By amplifying women’s voices, fostering mentorship, and advocating for inclusion, we accelerate change. The future of AdTech isn’t just about technology; it’s about the people driving it forward—and women are leading the charge.
And if you know any other bright ladies in AdTech who deserve the spotlight, feel free to get in touch with us.
