Laura Daniela Dumitrescu, Sr. Manager EMEA Cloud & MSP Sales at Bitdefender, on leadership, inclusion, and driving innovation in enterprise technology.
As part of Techitup Middle East’s International Women’s Day 2026 Leadership Series, we spotlight women leaders shaping the future of technology across the region. In this feature, Laura Dumitrescu shares her professional journey, leadership insights, and advice for women in tech.
We are entering a defining AI-driven era. How is AI changing leadership expectations for women in tech?
Laura Dumitrescu: AI is accelerating the pace at which technology shapes every industry, and that is raising the bar for leadership across the board. Today’s leaders are expected not only to understand the technology itself, but also its societal impact, ethics, and long-term implications.
For women in tech, this moment also represents an opportunity. As organizations rethink how decisions are made around data, automation, and responsible AI, leadership styles that emphasize collaboration, empathy, and multidisciplinary thinking are becoming increasingly valuable.
The most effective leaders in the AI era are those who can combine technical understanding with human-centric decision-making — and that is an area where diverse leadership can make a significant difference.
What is one structural barrier that still needs to change for women to scale into more C-level and board positions in tech?
Laura Dumitrescu: In my experience, leadership roles tend to follow impact and the ability to drive business outcomes. In tech especially, organizations value leaders who can scale teams, grow markets, and deliver results.
Rather than focusing on barriers alone, I think the key is ensuring that talented women have access to opportunities where they can demonstrate that impact—whether that’s leading revenue growth, managing large teams, or shaping strategy.
When leaders consistently create value for customers and organizations, those capabilities naturally open the path to executive and board positions.
Was there a defining moment in your career that changed your trajectory?
Laura Dumitrescu: A defining moment in my career was realizing that growth often comes from stepping into opportunities before you feel completely ready. Mid-journey, I accepted a role that completely changed my career path and came with a broader set of responsibilities.
It was challenging, but it accelerated my learning and gave me confidence in my ability to adapt. That experience reinforced an important lesson for me: some of the most meaningful career shifts happen when you’re willing to embrace uncertainty and trust your ability to grow into the role.
What leadership trait has helped you the most in navigating the tech industry?
Laura Dumitrescu: Curiosity has been one of the most valuable traits in my career, especially leading sales across a diverse region like EMEA. Markets, customer priorities, and technology adoption vary widely, so staying curious helps you understand different perspectives and adapt quickly.
It means asking the right questions, listening closely to customers and teams, and continuously learning about how technology solves real business problems. In a fast-moving industry, curiosity helps leaders stay relevant and build stronger relationships with both teams and clients.
Lastly, what practical advice would you give young women entering the AI and digital economy today?
Laura Dumitrescu: Build a strong foundation in both technology and critical thinking. AI is transforming industries, but its impact depends on how people design and apply it.
Seek mentors, build networks, and don’t hesitate to make your work visible. Most importantly, don’t wait until you feel fully ready to pursue ambitious opportunities. The AI and digital economy are still evolving, and there is significant space for new perspectives.
Diverse voices will play a crucial role in shaping how these technologies develop and benefit society.
This interview is part of the Techitup Middle East IWD 2026 Leadership Series, for women leaders who continue to accelerate innovation, champion diversity, and redefine the technology ecosystem across the Middle East and beyond.
