The winners of the 14th annual FDM everywoman in Technology Awards have been announced at a ceremony in London, where 500 cross-industry tech leaders came to network and celebrate exceptional women in the field. The awards celebrate the tech industry’s most exceptional talent recognising all stages of the career journey from apprentices to C-Suite, creating role models to inspire the next generation from the UK and beyond
The Cyber Security Award – sponsored by BAE Systems – has been awarded to a woman who is excelling in her role and making a tangible difference to her business in the field of cyber security .
Eleanor Sim, Director Cyber Security Strategy and Architecture at Bupa, from Edinburgh, is a lifelong technologist and passionate advocate of women’s careers in tech. Eleanor began her career as a security researcher at the National Cyber Security Centre (previously CESG) in Cheltenham, having achieved a first-class degree in Computer Science and AI. It was here that Eleanor helped found Cyber First Girls a competition for UK schools, inspiring the next generation of young women to consider a career in cyber security.
Following a fulfilling and successful career in Government, she took on the role of Head of Security Architecture at NatWest Group, before moving on to become Director for Security Strategy and Architecture at Bupa in 2021. Working for one of the world’s largest healthcare companies, she spearheads the security of business-critical projects and innovations that are improving the health outcomes of millions of customers, alongside her inspirational leadership and advocacy of both women in technology and Bupa’s Pride network.
Maxine Benson MBE, Co-Founder of everywoman, commented: “Since 2011, The FDM everywoman in Technology Awards are both a recognition and a celebration of the impact women are having on the technology industry worldwide and the diverse, fulfilling, and exemplary careers that women can have in technology. Over the past 14 years, the accomplishments, and stories of these talented women have and will continue to inspire future generations to pursue a career in an industry where women are underrepresented. Each winner is a role model whose remarkable achievements showcase the vital advancements technology has in saving, transforming, and improving lives, while also positively impacting the planet and ensuring the future of tech grows ever more diverse and inclusive.”
Mary Haigh, Chief Information and Security Officer at BAE Systems, said: “Cybersecurity underpins the digital revolution. It’s a challenging field requiring the most diverse and creative teams. That’s why we want to get more women into technology roles, so sponsoring this event made perfect sense. We send our best wishes and congratulations to all those shortlisted for this important award, which celebrates women making a tangible difference to their organisation in the field of cybersecurity. My own grandmother was called up to serve as a radio interceptor for Bletchley Park, reminding me that inspiring women, though often hidden, have been at the forefront of the digital revolution from the very start.”
For more information about the 2023 FDM everywoman in Technology Awards, or if you would like to be notified when the 2024 awards open for nomination, click here.
