From guiding global corporations to shaping the future of artificial intelligence and cybersecurity, women are stepping into leadership roles once considered unreachable. As we move into 2026, the tech world is being reshaped by women whose vision, expertise, and determination are powering innovation, inclusivity, and growth.
Here’s a look at some of the most influential women leaders in tech today — from CEOs of major companies to pioneering innovators and strategic changemakers.
Dr Lisa Su has emerged as one of the most respected executives in the technology industry. Under her leadership, AMD has transformed into a powerhouse in high-performance computing and AI-optimized processors, disrupting markets that were long dominated by competitors. Her tenure has seen AMD gain major design wins and strategic partnerships that bolster its position in AI, data centers, and edge computing.
A recognised force in the UK tech ecosystem, Naomi Timperley was named one of the “Most Influential Women in UK Tech” in 2025. As co-founder of Tech North Advocates and now innovation director at Oxford Innovation, Timperley champions entrepreneurship, scaling initiatives, and the adoption of emerging technologies across regions. She’s also played a key role in programmes that help businesses harness AI effectively.
Deborah O’Neill leads technology innovation strategy across the UK, Ireland, and Nordics for global consulting firm Oliver Wyman. Her role includes leading digital transformation and new technology propositions for clients worldwide. She also serves as a strategic partner for gender inclusion initiatives and co-authored research on why women leave tech careers.
At Google, Parisa Tabriz heads global browser security strategy, protecting billions of users across multiple platforms. Her work in cybersecurity emphasises proactive defence and integrating security into the earliest stages of product design — an approach that’s influencing how digital products are built across the industry.
Fei-Fei Li continues to shape the way the world thinks about human-centred AI. Her research emphasises ethically grounded artificial intelligence that prioritises social impact and human dignity, influencing both academic research and industry development.
Awarded at the Women in Tech Awards 2025 for her work in quantum security, Lisa Matthews leads operations at one of the UK’s fastest-growing deep-tech companies. Under her guidance, KETS has commercialised advanced quantum key distribution (QKD) systems and positioned itself as a leader in securing future digital infrastructure.
As a rising star in the UK tech community, Anushka Malhotra has helped transform TechWM from a regional events organisation into a nationally recognised catalyst for innovation. Her regional leadership and strategic campaigns have amplified opportunities for tech entrepreneurs and innovators across the UK.
Roshni Nadar stands out as the first woman to lead a major listed IT company in India. Chairperson of HCL Technologies, she shapes strategy and growth at one of the world’s leading tech services firms with global reach. Nadar’s leadership showcases how women are transforming the governance of large-scale technology organisations.
Emerging as one of the most promising rising leaders, Agata Bendik co-founded two ventures this year: a feminist media platform and a technology-focused support venture for emerging innovators. Her work combines entrepreneurship with a mission to support diverse voices in tech.
As chief executive of AbilityNet, Amy Low leads efforts to make technology more accessible to all. Through advocacy and digital inclusion initiatives, she helps reduce barriers in education, employment, and everyday life, expanding who can participate in the digital economy.
Across corporate boardrooms, cybersecurity labs, startups, and research institutions, women are increasingly stepping into roles that influence how technology evolves and whom it serves. Their paths remind us that leadership in tech isn’t one-dimensional — it’s strategic, ethical, inclusive, and world-shaping.
As we head deeper into 2026, these women exemplify not just success, but the diverse ways leadership can manifest in technology — from invented infrastructure to societal impact and organisational transformation.
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