Learning to lead: why Oracle is a springboard for women to succeed and achieve career autonomy

At Oracle we champion women who strive to be innovators, change-makers, and adventure seekers. From pioneering pilots, incredible care takers, and ambitious adrenaline junkies to fearless, inspiring leaders, women thrive with us because we acknowledge their unique strengths and power. Nurturing and encouraging the women leaders of tomorrow, our community hears every voice and works towards levelling the playing field for women across the globe. Our leaders are sharing their perspectives on how they innovate and strive to create a brighter future with Oracle.

Take a risk or lose the chance

Whilst their stories may differ, one thing these women leaders have in common is their ‘go for it’ attitude. Never letting barriers or bias hold them back, they felt the fear and did it anyway – a sentiment supported by the autonomous environment created at Oracle.

Never letting preconceived notions of what women can do get in her way, JAPAC’s head of architecture and industry strategy, veteran Brenda Banning, didn’t take no for an answer when she decided it was time for her to take flight and spread her wings (quite literally). The first woman on the CP-140 Aurora maritime patrol Air Force Squadron, she applies what she learned during her service to her career at Oracle. “If you dream it, give it a go—even if the career opportunity is a stretch given your current qualifications. Don’t be afraid to seize opportunities that come your way,” she reminds both herself and her team daily.

People help people grow

One thing is for sure, successful leaders understand the value of the people around them. They know to achieve team goals, the individual growth and aspirations of members must be acknowledged and supported. A great leader strives to pull out the good from all their colleagues, something our leading ladies have perfected throughout the course of their Oracle careers.

Deepa Singhal, Vice President Applications India and General Manager HCM APAC, explains why your team environment should always be a priority, “As a leader, I want to pay it forward. I’m passionate about investing in the career growth of my team and I’m so grateful that today, we have a culture where you can bring your full self to work. An open inclusive environment where you can thrive and succeed.”

SG 100 Women in Tech list alumnus and Singapore’s country managing director, Chua Horng Shya tells of the importance in leading by example in order to get the best out of her department, “People are key. I constantly focus on leading by example; by providing clarity in vision, strategy and direction; generating energy to embrace fellowship, and finally driving success by defining the end goals.”

Filling teams with supportive individuals is what helps employees transform into inspiring leaders. Such was the case for Oracle Korea’s first female field engineer, KyungHee Lee, when she joined us in 1993. Later becoming the country unit’s first female director, she shares what helped mold her leadership style.

“There were a lot of challenges in Oracle’s applications business in those days, but we overcame them, and the people I worked with were very much supportive of each other. I really grew during those times,” she says.

Lessons learned along the road to leadership

Holding many years of experience under their belts, our women leaders are leaving us with some words of wisdom. Hoping to inspire and motivate a new crop of talented women in technology, they share a collective ambition to teach and support women climbing the ranks.

“Appreciate all that you have. Stay positive during life’s peaks and valleys,” Ling-Fei Wu offers. A part of Oracle for more than 20 years, she struggled to stay on top of her career after her second child was born with stifling health issues. With the support and flexibility offered by us, she could continue winning at work. Now, managing a team of 20 as senior director of global finance operations, she attributes an environment that encourages women to take autonomy of their careers for her continued success.

“I think being authentic is a must because I hold integrity at a very high value. So say what you mean. Take action on it,” Horng Shya emphasizes.

Finally, KyungHee Lee wants every woman to remember, “You’re not alone. Seek advice from your female managers and colleagues, as well as from friends and family members, who have been in your shoes.”

Looking to lead the charge for women in tech? Explore our current openings and come create an inclusive future at Oracle.