Women in Technology: Building a More Balanced Future

For decades, tech has been a male-dominated space, due to cultural stereotypes, educational imbalances, recruitment practices and a lack of female role models. Efforts to close this gap are slowly developing with a focus on creating inclusive cultures, changing stereotypes, and supporting women in STEM education and tech careers. At Oakstone International, we’ve seen this shift first-hand. Over the last year, we’ve made measurable progress in helping our clients create more gender-diverse teams.

Driving SaaS Diversity Through Inclusive Hiring

Globally, women now make up 26% of tech roles, up from 19% in 2019 (UK government data). Whilst this is real progress, there are still improvements to be made. In the UK, only 5% of leadership positions in technology are currently held by women, so while more women are entering the industry, not enough are reaching the top.

Diverse teams are not just a nice to have but, statistically they perform better. Research by McKinsey & Company conducted in 2018 discovered that companies with more diversity brings fresh perspectives, smarter problem-solving, and stronger company cultures. Tech companies are built to innovate, and diverse teams make that possible.

How Oakstone Is Making a Difference?

At Oakstone, we believe diverse hiring isn’t a nice-to-have, it’s essential. We work with clients who understand that great teams are built intentionally. And the numbers tell a positive story.

In 2024, 18% of the hires we supported for our clients were female. In 2025, that figure jumped to 29%.

That’s a 62% increase in female hires in just one year. These statistics represent exceptional women stepping into roles where they can make an impact, lead with confidence, and help shape the future of tech.

Progress for Women in Tech and SaaS Leadership

Over the past year, Oakstone has continued to make strong progress in placing women into leadership roles across the technology and SaaS sector. In 2024, we successfully placed female leaders into Director and Executive positions, setting a solid foundation for future growth. Building on that momentum, 2025 has seen a significant step forward, with placements expanding across all senior levels, including Directors, Executives, Head of Department, Managers, and Vice Presidents. These figures reflect not only a growing demand for diverse leadership but also Oakstone’s ongoing commitment to connecting exceptional women with opportunities where they can influence, inspire, and lead.

How Is Oakstone Driving Change?

At Oakstone International, our commitment to diversity is reflected in thoughtful, deliberate, and focused long-term impact.

Expanding the Talent Pool

Oakstone goes beyond traditional search methods, proactively engaging with existing networks, passive candidates and communities that support women in technology. This approach allows us to identify exceptional candidates, ensuring we introduce the best candidates to our clients.

Reducing Bias, Increasing Balance

Oakstone builds awareness, ensuring candidates are evaluated and qualified on skill and experience, not assumptions. Our consultants are trained to challenge bias and focus on potential, performance, and cultural contribution.

The Reality Check

Even with a 62% increase in female hires across our own client base and rising global participation, women are still underrepresented in leadership. Many face barriers around bias, limited mentorship, or balancing family responsibilities with demanding roles.

The good news is that awareness is higher than ever. From early education to executive search, the effort to bring more women into technology is gaining momentum and the results are starting to show.

Real Change, Real Impact

Oakstone International has the privilege of placing incredible female leaders across SaaS, data, AI, and enterprise technology, and we’re seeing great talent shape culture, lead growth, and inspire the next generation to follow.

Key Takeaways

• Women now hold 26% of global tech roles, up from 19% in 2019.

• Only 5% of UK tech leadership roles are currently held by women.

• Oakstone’s placements of women were 18% in 2024 to 29% in 2025, a 62% increase.

• Oakstone is committed to diversity in SaaS hiring.

At Oakstone International, we help build the teams that shape the future.

Oakstone International is an executive search and recruitment firm that assists SaaS companies in hiring leaders and GTM teams globally. For more information on using our services, contact our team today.