On International Women’s Day, it’s a poignant moment to reflect on our journey toward building a diverse and inclusive workplace here at Options Technology. I’m Laura McCann, the CFO of Options, and I am proud to share our story of transformation.
When I joined Options in 2016 we had already started the journey to a more diverse environment. Our company mirrored the rest of the tech industry, a predominantly male workforce with limited diversity. The company had grown so quickly that diversification was simply not a priority and women represented only 2% of our team. Recognizing the imperative need for change, we had embarked on a mission to create a workplace where everyone felt valued, respected, and empowered to contribute their unique talents and perspectives.
One of our initial challenges was the physical layout of our offices, inadvertently underscoring gender disparities. Through intentional redesigns and a commitment to inclusivity, we created spaces where all employees felt welcomed, safe and respected.
We implemented changes across various fronts. From prioritizing diversity in our recruitment efforts to challenging preconceptions that hindered progress, we sought to foster a culture that embraced differences and celebrated individuality. Role models emerged and as more women joined and became highly successful within the organization it became easier to attract and retain top talent.
Crucially, the support of our investors, Bregal Sagemount and subsequently Abry Partners, provided invaluable opportunities for women to excel and lead within our organization. Mentorship programs and a culture of inclusion further empowered women to pursue leadership roles and drive positive change.
Today, I am proud to report that our workforce is now 30% female—a significant milestone reflecting our commitment to diversity and inclusion. Additionally, 22% of our VP and 33% of our C-level positions are held by female leaders. However, our journey is ongoing. We recognize there’s still work to be done, particularly in breaking into traditionally male-dominated roles such as sales.
Nevertheless, I’m optimistic about the future. We’ve proven that diversity isn’t just a buzzword—it’s a strategic advantage. By embracing diverse perspectives and experiences, we’ve built a stronger, more resilient organization.
As we celebrate International Women’s Day, let’s reaffirm our commitment to diversity and inclusivity. We’ll continue to champion the voices of women in tech and pave the way for future generations of leaders. Together, we can create a workplace and indeed industry where everyone, regardless of gender or background, has the opportunity to thrive and succeed.
– Laura McCann, Chief Financial Officer
