Muna Issa, Regional Sales Director at HPE, on leadership, inclusion, driving innovation in tech, continuous learning and investing in you.
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, Muna Issa 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?
Muna Issa: AI is raising the bar for leadership across the board. Nowadays, leaders are not only expected to understand technology, but to translate it into real business value and responsible outcomes.
What I find encouraging is that this moment creates space for more diverse leadership styles. AI is not just about algorithms; it’s about how technology impacts people, businesses, and society. That requires collaboration, critical thinking, and strong governance.
Women in tech should see this as an opportunity to help shape how AI is applied. The conversation shouldn’t be about adapting to the AI era it should be about being part of the group that defines how it evolves.
What is one structural barrier that still needs to change for women to scale into more C-level and board positions in tech?
Muna Issa: One area that still needs attention is executive sponsorship. Many companies have mentorship programs, which are valuable, but mentorship alone doesn’t always translate into career progression. In contrast, sponsorships have shown to be much more impactful. Sponsorship is when senior leaders actively advocate for you, recommend you for strategic initiatives, and open doors to leadership opportunities.
From what I’ve seen and learnt throughout my career thus far, access to those opportunities often determines whether someone progresses into executive or board roles. Organizations that want to see more women at that level need to be intentional about creating those pathways.
Was there a defining moment in your career that changed your trajectory?
Muna Issa: Yes, there has been for sure. The key shift in my career came when I moved from an individual contributor role into my first line manager role, looking after a bigger, regional team.
That transition changed how I approached my work at the time, significantly expanding my scope. It was no longer only about delivering technology solutions, but also coaching teams to upskill and deliver, influencing product and team strategies, and managing complex stakeholder relations.
It made me realize that leadership in technology is just as much about people and trust as it is about technical and sales expertise. Especially coaching teams is key for the company success.
What leadership trait has helped you the most in navigating the tech industry?
Muna Issa: The immediate answer that comes to my mind is resilience. Technology evolves quickly, and leaders often have to make decisions in fast-moving environments. Those might not be outright lifechanging decisions but critical market decisions that can impact business outcomes, for our customers, partners and ourselves. In some scenarios, they might even impact end user’s lives. There will always be challenges, competing priorities, and moments where plans need to change.
Resilience helped me stay focused, and support my team, and, most importantly, continue moving forward. I also believe curiosity plays a big role – the willingness to keep learning is essential in an industry that never stands still.
Lastly, what practical advice would you give young women entering the AI and digital economy today?
Muna Issa: My first advice would be to build strong foundations. Even if you aspire to move into leadership roles, understanding technology gives you credibility and confidence.
Second, don’t wait until you feel completely ready before stepping into bigger opportunities. Many of the most valuable experiences come from roles that stretch you.
Thirdly, invest in relationships. Mentors, sponsors, and peers can make a significant difference throughout your career. The AI and digital economy are still evolving, and there is a real opportunity for the next generation of women to help shape its trajectory.
Last but not least, be your authentic self, this is a strength and not a weakness. Lean on the thing that you are strong at the most and develop those skills by continuously learning and investing in “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.
