Eliane Gerges, Regional Director, Middle East at Dynatrace, 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, Eliane Gerges 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?
Eliane Gerges: AI is pushing leadership back to its fundamentals. With so many day‑to‑day tasks now automated, what really matters is the ability to think strategically, understand data, and guide teams and customers through change.
For women in tech, this shift actually plays to our strengths: clear communication, empathy, and the ability to connect dots across the business. What’s becoming essential is staying curious and carving out time to understand AI well enough to have a point of view.
Customers and teams want leaders who can help them navigate this new landscape with confidence, and that’s where we can really step up.
What is one structural barrier that still needs to change for women to scale into more C-level and board positions in tech?
Eliane Gerges: One barrier that still stands out is how companies define “readiness” for senior roles. In tech especially, there’s often an expectation that leaders must follow a very specific career path or tick a long list of boxes before being considered for C‑level positions.
But many strong leaders, women included, build their careers in more diverse, cross‑functional ways. When organizations rely too heavily on rigid criteria, they unintentionally overlook people who are already operating at a high level, just not in the traditional format.
Broadening how we assess leadership potential would open the door for a much wider and more diverse group of people to step into those roles.
Was there a defining moment in your career that changed your trajectory?
Eliane Gerges: My career hasn’t been shaped by one big moment; it’s been shaped by a series of decisions where I chose to take a risk instead of staying comfortable. I started as a technical consultant, moved into channel roles for many years, and today I’m leading one of the fastest‑growing parts of the business.
Each shift came from saying yes to something that felt a bit unfamiliar at the time. Looking back, those small leaps added up and completely changed my trajectory. They taught me that growth often sits on the other side of discomfort.
What leadership trait has helped you the most in navigating the tech industry?
Eliane Gerges: The trait that has helped me most is being able to spot great talent and genuinely invest in their success. I’ve always believed that a leader is only as strong as the team around them, and I make it a point to surround myself with people who bring strengths I don’t have.
In tech specifically, curiosity is also essential. This industry moves fast, and the willingness to learn, adapt, and rethink your approach is what keeps you relevant. Combining a people‑first mindset with continuous learning has been my anchor.
Lastly, what practical advice would you give young women entering the AI and digital economy today?
Eliane Gerges: Don’t overthink it, just step in.
You belong in this space, and you have more to offer than you probably realize. The AI and digital world rewards curiosity and courage, not perfection.
Say yes to opportunities even if you don’t feel 100% ready, keep learning, and surround yourself with people who push you forward. You’ll be surprised how far that mindset can take you.
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.
