Lena De Geer, Regional Head IT & Digital Transformation, Fugro shares her insights on inclusion, which starts with cultivating the right culture, her journey and advice for aspiring women
What are your views on this year’s IWD 2025 theme “Accelerate Action”, how can we truly achieve diversity and inclusion in the workplace?
Lena De Geer: This year’s theme truly speaks to me. The pace of gender equality has been too slow, and we need everyone to act faster and more decisively. If we want to achieve true inclusion, we must also focus on belonging, which starts with cultivating the right culture. Companies need to create a supportive and respectful environment by addressing and eliminating behaviors that make women feel uncomfortable, such as harassment, inappropriate language, exclusionary social gatherings, and insensitive discussions about maternity leave. It’s crucial that companies not only have policies in place but also enforce them rigorously, with real consequences for violations to maintain safety and trust.
Diversity is closely tied to culture, but I believe, to drive real change, we need to focus on mentorship. Career progression often happens through informal networks, where women are frequently excluded from key mentorship and coaching opportunities. To counter this, organizations should actively establish structured mentorship programmes to support women, with mentors including both male and female leaders. Creating these intentional pathways will help break down barriers, provide equal access to guidance and opportunities, and ultimately accelerate gender equality in the workplace.
Can you share your journey into the tech world and what inspired you to pursue this, where did it all start?
Lena De Geer: I began my career in business administration and supply chain at LG Electronics, where I was introduced to process improvement through Lean Six Sigma projects. One of my key projects focused on sales forecasting, where I developed a new process for Scandinavia and designed a supporting system. At the time, I had no background in IT or software development, but I quickly realized how much I enjoyed problem-solving, creating efficiencies, and building something new.
This realization led me to pursue a tech career. I joined IFS Applications in Stockholm, Sweden, as an Implementation Project Manager, where I gained valuable experience in one of the biggest ERP systems in Scandinavia. My passion for technology continued to grow, leading me to move to Dubai, where I led several agile software development teams developing that company’s internal software.
Today, at Fugro, I lead the IT and digital transformation team, focusing on our AI strategy which includes everything from establishing Ethical AI frameworks to creating an AI-competent workforce. My journey has been driven by a love for change, challenges, and innovation. I have never regretted my decision to transition into the tech world, as it has allowed me to continuously innovate and drive efficiencies.
Who would you consider your role model, someone who constantly inspires you? (Does not really have to be from the professional world only, can be someone at home too)
Lena De Geer: My role model is my mother. She loved life and always found joy in the small things. Her ability to see happiness in everyday moments has been a constant source of inspiration for me. I strive to live by her example, taking the time to stop and reflect on all the good things in life. Her positive outlook and appreciation for life’s simple pleasures have taught me the importance of gratitude and mindfulness. She inspires me to embrace each day with a sense of wonder and to find joy in the journey, no matter how challenging it may be.
Rapid Fire (Let’s get to know you more)
- Dinner with a famous personality, who would it be? Barack Obama
- One skill you wish you could learn instantly? Speak all languages
- One thing you cannot live without? One thing I cannot live without is having breakfast with my family. This is where we connect and start our day together. It’s a small but significant part of my daily routine that helps me start the day with a clear mind and positive energy.
- Phone call or text message/email? Text message
- Beaches or Mountains? Mountains
- Coffee or Tea? Coffee
- Early Bird or Night owl? Early bird
- Books or Movies? Books
- Winter or Summer? Summer
- Online shopping or in-store shopping? Online
What advice would you give to women starting their careers, aspiring to enter the tech/business field?
Lena De Geer: Starting a career in tech or business as a woman presents incredible opportunities, but it also comes with challenges. You may find yourself in the minority, but always remember that you belong. Build a strong network, seek mentors, and surround yourself with people who support your growth.
Confidence is crucial—believe in yourself, define your career goals and pursue them with determination. Most importantly, ensure your contributions are recognized; claim ownership of your successes since credit is not always given freely.
