In honor of International Women’s Day, we are highlighting some of the inspiring women of UpGuard, as they reflect on their experience being a leader at UpGuard, share advice to help others aspiring for professional growth and development, as well as honor those who have influenced and inspired their careers.
Can you share what your experience has been like as a leader at UpGuard? How has UpGuard supported and empowered you in your leadership journey?
Being a leader at UpGuard has been both challenging and incredibly rewarding. UpGuard really celebrates people for who they are, where their experience lies, and what they can bring to the table. The company has supported my leadership by trusting me to drive change, providing opportunities for growth, and ensuring my insights are valued in strategic decision-making. Beyond that, the culture at UpGuard encourages results-driven leadership, which has helped me focus on delivering impact rather than navigating politics (which can be common in other work environments). Whether it's leading the team through tough market conditions or restructuring for greater efficiency, I've felt empowered to make decisions and advocate for the team’s success.
What strategies can people use to feel empowered and fully own their leadership?
Authenticity is your greatest strength. That being said the three key strategies that have helped me navigate leadership are:
Own Your Expertise: Be confident in what you know. You were chosen for this role because of your skills, knowledge, and experience - don’t let self-doubt creep in.
Speak with Authority: Be direct, clear, and be present in conversations. You don’t need to apologize or soften your message - your perspective is valuable. Remember direct or assertive doesn’t mean disrespectful or unkind.
Build Strong Alliances: Find allies, both male and female, who respect your leadership and will advocate for you when you're not in the room. Having a strong internal network is a game-changer.
For those aspiring to leadership, what are some key skills or habits people should consider strengthening that have helped you as a leader?
There are a few skills & habits that have made a huge difference in my leadership journey:
Commercial Acumen: Understanding the business side: revenue, growth strategy, business impacts, and decision-making metrics all give you an edge and ensure your contributions are tied to real impact.
Negotiation & Influence: Whether it’s securing budget, advocating for your team, or closing a deal, being able to persuade and influence effectively is a must-have skill.
Resilience & Adaptability: No leadership journey is linear - mine certainly hasn't been. Markets shift, teams change, and setbacks happen. The best leaders stay adaptable, find solutions, and push forward. Listen hard and change fast.
Visibility & Personal Branding: Be seen and heard. Share your wins, speak up in meetings, and position yourself as a leader before the title even comes. Leadership isn’t just about your role - it’s about how you show up (not only for yourself but your team as well) every day.
