SAPinsider Technology Executive Forum Issue 1 2021

I have always loved technology because there is always something new to learn. I am a lifelong learner, and this field provides ample opportunity to learn something new every day. I also have been able to use and share my technology skills and experience across many industries and fields. I have appreci- ated learning about each industry that I have had the opportunity to work in as it has helped me to broaden my business knowledge. While I am a technologist, I’m also a people person. I enjoy working with others and sharing my experiences. I have been a frequent speaker on various topics around IT and leadership, served on several industry advisory boards, and serve on dif- ferent boards of directors. Several of the companies that I have worked for have had global offices all over the world, affording me many opportunities to travel abroad, which has enhanced my life, both personally and professionally. A side benefit is that many times I have been able to take my family with me. They would sightsee while I worked. From that, I believe all three of my children love travel and learning about new cultures. Q: What has your personal experience been like working in a predominantly male-occupied industry? I have always worked in very male-dominated indus- tries. I started my career in the oil and gas business where there were not a lot of women in high posi- tions. But I learned to thrive in a very male-centric industry and company. One of the company’s vice presidents, Biff Johnson, took me under his wing and gave me an opportunity to show what I could do. I left the IT department for a two-year rotation into the company’s product management department, which oversaw and executed mergers and acquisi- tions, economic forecasts and studies, interpretation of government regulations, and the development of the annual long-range plan. It was a perfect place for me to learn about the industry, the business, and what added value to the bottom line of an organiza- tion. I enjoyed it so much that the initial two-year rotation turned into six years. During that time, I went to night school and received my MBA. The CIO of the organization then asked if I would come back to IT and help oversee a huge initiative — to imple- ment SAP ERP Financials and the co-development and deployment of the SAP industry solution for oil and gas. I would not have been in the position to take advantage of the many opportunities that were open to me if Biff hadn’t identified me as a person to mentor and champion. He gave me sage advice on how to maintain my identity and grow my reputa- tion, trust, and credibility as the only female on the IT leadership and management team. He was a thoughtful and caring man ahead of his time who saw something in me and helped me build the foun- dation that has led to my long and successful career. While there were other times in my career when I had to deal with issues such as sexual harassment and wage discrimination, I was always able to deal with those situations and move on. Of course, there are still pockets of the “good old boy” network, and it will take a few more generations to get past that, but I have been very fortunate to grow and thrive, despite those limitations. “Innovation requires diverse perspectives so you can hear alternative ways to look at problems.” —Sharon Kaiser SAPinsiderOnline.com 21