International Women’s Day 2025
How to Create Company Environments Where Women Not Only Thrive -
But Are Also Empowered to Advance Their Careers
Marie Chabanon, EUDCA Board Member, Deputy Chair of the Technical Committee, and Chief Technical Officer DATA4 Group
1. Can you tell us about your journey to achieving a senior position in the industry?
My career journey has been shaped by a deep commitment to technology, leadership, and strategic development within the digital infrastructure sector. I started my career in project management with SOCOTEC INTERNATIONAL, where I spent a few years gaining valuable experience in managing complex projects. From there, I transitioned to roles where I could combine my technical expertise with a focus on operations and leadership.
In 2004, I joined Starbucks as a Construction Manager, where I was responsible for overseeing the construction of new stores, which provided me with strong project management and operational skills in a fast-paced, international environment. Following this, I worked as an International Project Engineer for GL events, where I focused on international projects, helping to broaden my global perspective.
In 2009, I moved into the tech and data centre industry, joining APL Data Center as a Senior Consultant. During my time there, I developed a deep understanding of the data centre sector, which set the stage for my next role as Regional Director and a Comex member at APL, where I led business development and strategic initiatives across the region.
In 2017, I joined Data4 as Deputy CTO and was quickly promoted to Chief Technical Officer in 2018, a position I still hold today. At Data4, I am responsible for overseeing the technological strategy and direction of our data centre solutions, ensuring that we continue to innovate and lead in the market. My role involves working closely with cross-functional teams to deliver cutting-edge infrastructure solutions and to help Data4 expand its footprint in Europe.
Throughout my journey, the constant driving force has been a passion for technology and infrastructure, as well as the challenge of leading diverse teams toward innovative solutions. Today, as part of the Comex, I am excited about shaping the future of data centres and continuing to position Data4 as a leader in this critical space.
2. Have you faced any challenges as a woman in tech? How did you overcome them?
As a woman in tech, I’ve certainly faced my share of challenges, particularly in a sector that has historically been male-dominated. Early in my career, I often found myself in environments where I was one of the few women in technical roles, which sometimes meant I had to work harder to prove myself. However, rather than letting those challenges hold me back, I saw them as opportunities to build resilience, confidence, and determination.
One of the key ways I overcame these challenges was by focusing on building strong, trusted relationships with colleagues and mentors. It’s been incredibly important for me to find allies who support and encourage my growth, as well as to offer the same support to others, creating a more inclusive and collaborative environment. Additionally, I’ve always made it a point to continually learn and stay at the forefront of industry developments, which has helped me gain respect and authority in technical discussions.
Another way I’ve navigated these challenges is by prioritizing leadership and team-building skills. As I moved into roles like Deputy CTO and now as CTO at Data4, I’ve realized that great leadership isn’t about fitting a certain mould—it's about empowering people, fostering innovation, and creating an environment where everyone, regardless of gender, can succeed.
There is still work to be done to ensure equal representation of women in leadership positions in tech, but I’m proud to be part of that change. My hope is that by continuing to succeed in my role, I can help pave the way for the next generation of women in tech and inspire others to see leadership in technology as a space for everyone.
3. Who are the women (or allies) that have influenced or supported you in your journey?
I can't say that there is any one woman or women who have particularly inspired me in my career. On the other hand, I read a lot and discover the stories of women who challenge and inspire me. I was really struck by Gisele Szczyglak's book Subversives, which explains how civilisation has been confiscated from women for thousands of years: men, without even being aware of it, have simply arrogated to themselves the concept of humanity, leaving women with the sole function of ensuring the continuum of the species... As a result of this civilisational abduction, women's perception of the world - and in particular of themselves within it - is skewed.
It is therefore vital to help them change this perception of the world, to give them back the place they should have had and above all to change the codes of the world, particularly the professional world, in which we live.
4. What initiatives or programs have you seen that successfully promote women in tech?
In Europe, I’ve seen some excellent initiatives and programs that are actively promoting women in tech and helping to bridge the gender gap in the industry. One such initiative is Women in Tech EU, which has become a powerful platform for empowering women in technology across Europe. This network brings together women from all stages of their careers, offering mentorship, resources, and a strong community for knowledge-sharing and professional growth. It’s great to see more organizations supporting women in tech through networking, leadership programs, and by creating spaces where women can build relationships and access opportunities for career advancement.
Another standout initiative is TechWomen100, which highlights and celebrates the achievements of women in the European tech ecosystem. This program not only showcases inspiring role models but also helps bring attention to the many talented women who are leading in tech roles across various sectors. It’s initiatives like these that serve as a reminder of the significant contributions women are making and are essential for inspiring the next generation of female tech leaders.
Additionally, there are several university programs and non-profit organizations in Europe that focus on encouraging young women to pursue careers in STEM. Girls Who Code and Code First: Girls are two organizations that have been particularly impactful in the UK and across Europe, offering coding and tech workshops for young women. These programs help demystify technology and make it more accessible, showing young women that they belong in the tech world.
Finally, I’m also encouraged by the growing number of companies, including those in the data centre and tech infrastructure space, that are establishing internal mentorship and diversity programs to promote women to leadership roles.
Overall, while there’s still work to be done, these initiatives and many more across Europe are crucial for changing the narrative and creating a more equitable and diverse tech industry.
5. How can companies better support and retain women in tech?
In the digital infrastructure industry, supporting and retaining women in tech requires intentional strategies that address both the specific challenges women face in this sector and the broader industry trends. As a leader in this space, I believe there are several key actions companies can take to create an environment where women not only thrive but are also empowered to stay and advance in their careers.
- Inclusive Leadership Development
Companies need to actively invest in leadership development programs tailored to women. In digital infrastructure, where technical expertise is essential, it’s important that women have access to the same growth opportunities as their male counterparts. This includes offering leadership training, project management experience, and exposure to high-impact projects. By helping women build the skills necessary for senior roles, companies can ensure they have the pipeline of talent needed for the future. - Work-Life Balance and Flexibility
In an industry like digital infrastructure, where technical roles can be demanding, providing flexible working arrangements is crucial. Women, in particular, often balance family responsibilities alongside their professional careers, so offering flexible hours, remote working options, or even more generous parental leave policies can make a significant difference in retaining female talent. When women feel supported in balancing both work and life commitments, they are more likely to remain in the industry long term. - Creating an Inclusive and Supportive Workplace Culture
It’s essential that companies foster an inclusive workplace culture where women feel safe, valued, and empowered. This means not only addressing unconscious bias in hiring and promotions but also creating a culture that celebrates diversity and provides equal opportunities for all. Having women in leadership roles within the company, as we do at Data4, can create a ripple effect, encouraging more women to step into tech and leadership positions themselves. - Visibility and Role Models
Representation matters. When women see other women succeeding in senior roles, it provides a clear pathway and sets an example that it’s possible to succeed in tech and infrastructure, regardless of gender. Programs that highlight women’s achievements in the digital infrastructure sector—whether through awards, interviews, or industry conferences—help build visibility and inspire future leaders. At Data4, I’m proud to be part of a leadership team that helps pave the way for future generations of women in our field.
In conclusion, by fostering a culture of mentorship, inclusivity, leadership development, flexibility, and visibility, companies in the digital infrastructure sector can not only attract but also retain talented women in tech. As we continue to prioritize these initiatives, I believe we can help create a more diverse and sustainable industry for the future.
6. What advice would you give to young women aspiring to enter the tech industry?
My advice to young women aspiring to enter the tech industry is to be bold, embrace curiosity, and never stop learning. The tech industry is vast and constantly evolving, so it’s essential to remain open to new ideas, technologies, and ways of thinking. Here are a few key pieces of advice I’d offer:
- Pursue Your Passion and Curiosity
The tech industry offers a world of opportunities, and one of the best ways to find your path is to follow what excites you. Whether you’re interested in coding, infrastructure, data management, or cybersecurity, there is a niche for every interest. Don’t be afraid to dive into new areas, explore different fields, and find what truly sparks your passion. It’s that curiosity and enthusiasm that will drive your success. - Build a Support Network and be part of this network for others
Building a strong professional network is also key; it opens doors to new opportunities, helps you learn from others, and gives you the confidence to advance in your career. Seeing women succeed in tech is incredibly powerful for young women entering the industry. And as you progress in your career try, support and encourage the next generation of women in tech, you contribute to the positive change and growth of the industry. - Develop Both Technical and Soft Skills
While having strong technical skills is important, the ability to communicate, collaborate, and lead is equally crucial in advancing your career. In tech, you’ll often find yourself working with cross-functional teams, so honing your communication and leadership skills will set you apart. Don’t just focus on becoming an expert in one technical area—develop a well-rounded skill set that allows you to navigate both technical challenges and business goals. - Be Your Authentic Self
The tech industry is becoming increasingly diverse, and it’s essential to bring your unique perspective to the table. Don’t feel like you need to conform to a particular mould. Be authentic, trust in your abilities, and don’t be afraid to bring your full self to your work. The more diverse and inclusive the industry becomes, the stronger it will be as a whole.
In conclusion, the tech industry is full of opportunities, and there’s a place for everyone. If you’re passionate, resilient, and open to learning, you can achieve great things. Don’t wait for permission to take your seat at the table—claim it!
7. If you could change one thing for future generations of women in tech, what would it be?
If I could change one thing for future generations of women in tech, it would be to eliminate the gender bias that still exists in the industry, particularly in leadership and technical roles. While we've made some strides in recent years, there's still work to be done to ensure that women are equally represented at all levels of tech organizations, from entry-level positions to the highest executive roles.
For me, this would mean creating environments where women are not only welcomed but actively encouraged to step into leadership positions without the additional barriers they sometimes face. I'd like to see a world where the focus is on skills, potential, and results, rather than preconceived notions about gender roles or abilities.
Furthermore, I believe it’s crucial to see more women in positions of power who advocates for policy changes that promote gender equality. By having strong, diverse leadership, we can inspire future generations to pursue and persist in their tech careers, knowing that they’ll have the support, mentorship, and equal opportunities to succeed.
Ultimately, changing codes and the culture around gender bias and ensuring equal opportunities will empower women in tech to thrive and lead the industry forward. That’s the legacy I hope to contribute to for future generations.