Athlone CEO earns 'role model' honour at Diversity in Tech awards
Carmel Owens, the chief executive of the Athlone-based company Sidero, has been named 'Diversity Role Model of the Year' at the Diversity in Tech Awards for 2022.
The awards, which were held at the RDS in Dublin, recognise the achievements of individuals and companies who contribute to diversity in the technology sector in Ireland.
A press statement issued on behalf of the awards explained that Carmel has been recognised "for her work to inspire change across all areas of the business, her diversity of thought, and her passion for forging an inclusive ethos."
"Carmel ensures that diversity and inclusion are an integral part of Sidero's company objectives including increased gender diversity in leadership roles, underpinning an inclusive company culture, ensuring fair and unbiased recruitment, and championing outside-the-box thinking," said the statement.
Sidero, which is based in Monksland, is a "software, cloud and digital transformation specialist" which was founded in Athlone in 2013 and currently employs more than 200 people.
The company prides itself on being culturally diverse, with its team comprising 26 nationalities.
Carmel leads its senior management team which consists of a 60/40 male/female split. She shapes the company's overall strategy including its focus on diversity and inclusion, which has already created a positive and lasting impact on the organisation.
In order to build a pipeline of diverse talent, Carmel drives collaboration with all levels of education in Ireland. The aim is to narrow the IT skills gap and show students that a career in technology is achievable for anyone, from any background.
Earlier this year, she was chosen as one of a select group of Irish female business leaders who travelled to Washington DC alongside the Taoiseach and the rest of the Irish trade delegation in celebration of St Patrick’s Day.
Commenting on her award, Carmel said: "I'm honoured to be named Diversity Role Model of the Year for 2022. Diversity is a key focus for us at Sidero, and I’m thrilled that our efforts have been recognised.
"As CEO, I strive to make diversity and inclusion an integral part of the decisions we make as a company – from internal culture and the hiring process to internships and celebrations.
"The culture we've harnessed is testament to the dedication of the entire Sidero team and we will continue to go that extra mile to diversify our workforce. Awareness is one thing, but action is what really counts," she said.