Celebrating Women at Deltek: Driving Change & Inspiring Future Leaders

Leadership is more than a title; it’s about inspiring others, fostering growth and driving meaningful change. As the executive sponsor of the Women at Deltek employee resource group (ERG), I am proud of the women who embody these qualities and the impact they’re making every day.

With more than 38% of our leadership roles occupied by women, Deltek is setting a new standard in the tech industry—outpacing giants like Google, Apple and Facebook in female leadership representation. This isn’t just a statistic; it’s a testament to our commitment to building a workplace where women thrive."

In celebration of International Women’s Day, I am excited to spotlight several of our ERG members, showcasing their individual leadership experiences and the insights and advice they have for future generations of women as they pursue leadership roles.

Advice for Aspiring Women Leaders

At Deltek, we believe leadership isn’t about waiting for opportunities—it’s about creating them. That’s why we’re committed to giving women the tools, support and confidence to take charge of their careers and lead with impact.

Shirin Mangold, VP of Information Technology, recommends, "Make yourself visible and show others that you care and are interested in developing your career. In a world where many of us have worked in silos, especially during the pandemic, it's crucial to actively participate and demonstrate what we can do.”

When asked what advice she would offer other women working in technology, Sher Natividad, an Engineering Director in the Philippines, emphasized the need for women to step up and act. She shared, “Be comfortable in stepping out of your comfort zone and don’t be afraid of taking the lead, especially in a male-dominated industry like ours.”

For Jenny Kim, a new Sales Development Manager, leadership is defined as supporting, coaching and inspiring others. "I really challenge my team to take ownership of their career and focus on continuous learning opportunities to see where it can take them," she explained.

Overcoming Challenges & Embracing Change in the Workplace

Women often face unique career challenges, but these obstacles can also serve as powerful opportunities for growth and transformation. When asked about a bold move that changed her career trajectory, Pouline Hjortkær, Senior Director of Sales in Denmark, shared an inspiring story of strength and determination in the face of personal and professional adversity.

In 2022, Pouline faced an impossible decision. She had just been offered a leadership role— that she had worked tirelessly to achieve. But at the same time, she received heartbreaking news: a diagnosis of incurable lung cancer. Upon reflection, she said, “Instead of stepping back, I boldly accepted the challenge ahead of me. Embracing the unknown with resilience and strength. Two years later, thanks to Deltek and the support I received, I have no regrets.” Pouline’s story is a powerful reminder that courage isn’t the absence of fear—it’s the decision to move forward despite it.

Similarly, Sarah Featherstone, a Senior Product Marketing Manager, faced her own set of challenges. Before joining Deltek three years ago, she didn’t have the traditional corporate experience that many of her peers did. Initially, this difference felt daunting. However, looking back on her journey, Sarah now appreciates her unique background. "Thanks to inspiring colleagues who encouraged me to say yes to opportunities, I've embraced my strengths and the unique perspective I bring, which has helped me grow as a leader.”

The Importance of Mentorship & Diversity of Thought

Regardless of where you are in your career, having a mentor can offer unique personal and professional development opportunities. They can help you navigate challenges, discover your potential, and help you achieve your goals. For Thea Vaflor, Managing Director of Deltek Philippines, "Mentorship has been a cornerstone of my career development. I have seen firsthand how it fosters a sense of belonging and community. This experience has inspired me to help other women by mentoring and supporting them in reaching their full potential."

When asked about the impact of women in leadership roles, Deniece Peterson, Senior Director of Federal Market Analysis, shared, "Women are changing the narrative around what good leadership looks like. By bringing their intelligence, collaboration, empathy, innovation and resilience to Deltek, they are proving how diversity of talent and thought can drive positive business outcomes.”

Both Thea and Deniece have built their careers at Deltek, and their stories highlight the powerful role women leaders play in fostering a culture of growth and inclusion. Their experiences underscore the importance of mentorship and the transformative impact of women in leadership.

Recently named one of America’s Best Employers by Forbes and a Top Workplace by the Washington Post, Deltek is dedicated to creating a world-class culture. We proudly support our women employees with career development opportunities, continuing education programs and resources to enable them to succeed.

Interested in joining a company that champions women, promotes career growth and fosters an inclusive culture? Join Deltek's Talent Community to stay updated on our award-winning culture, company initiatives and philanthropic efforts.