Speed mentoring programme takes off in tech sector

Over 50 UK technology firms, including Vodafone, Google, Sage and ARM Holdings have signed up to a mentoring programme for senior women in the technology sector.

The aim of the Rebus scheme is to fast track women into leading roles through providing them with objective advice and guidance from experienced mentors. There is no cost to the programme and no barrier to entry, making it easier for women working in smaller companies or with fewer resources or role models. It was set up by global executive firm Odgers Berndtson and is based on the Plan B initiative launched in the hospitality and leisure sector last year.

Rebus was launched in October, but has grown fast and already has over 60 mentors for events in 2020.

“The readiness of big players in tech like Google and Sage to take a lead in mentoring female leaders is extremely encouraging,” said Holly Addison, Partner and Head of Consumer Technology at Odgers Berndtson, and co-founder of Rebus.

“Our focus is firmly on women in leadership and senior management roles, aiming to help them navigate the path to board level. Having that self-belief can make all the difference.”

Rebus has scheduled up to eight speed-mentoring events next year, with the first taking place in late February.

Over 150 companies have signed up to Plan B in the last year. Plan B has already matched over 100 women with mentors to help progress their careers and has just won an industry award, presented at the CGA Peach 2019 Conference, for its contribution to diversity in the industry. The Programme uses speed mentoring to give women aspiring to top executive roles support and advice from experienced board level mentors. It is currently seeking more mentors and mentees for 2020.

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