In the dynamic world of technology, where innovation knows no bounds, it is essential to spotlight the exceptional women who are shaping the industry and driving progress. We had the privilege of conversing with the brilliant minds working behind the scenes at Weborama, a company at the forefront of digital advertising and data solutions.
It is important to remember that the history of computing itself has been profoundly influenced by visionary women. Over the decades, pioneers such as Ada Lovelace, who wrote the first computer program, and Grace Hopper, who contributed to the development of the first compiler, played a fundamental role in the creation and evolution of this field.
This editorial series aims to restore their nobility to them.
After featuring interviews with Kristina Voit, Olga Micollier, Narimen Kadem and Camille Sallé, it’s now the turn of Elena Kaniewski, Sales Manager at Weborama, to share her story with us!
Could you please introduce yourself briefly, tell us about your background, and how you arrived here?
After a Master’s degree in Marketing and Commercial Strategies, my journey into the advertising world began with my first opportunity as an apprentice, followed by a permanent contract at Groupe Cerise (Prisma Media). After spending nearly two and a half years at this company, I decided to start a new adventure by joining Weborama. Faced with the imminent transformation of the industry with the end of third-party cookies, I was eager to be at the heart of this evolution within the adtech sector. Since my arrival, I have gained valuable knowledge, especially in the technical aspects of advertising and in the overall management of data. The constant learning and daily challenges are what excite me the most at Weborama.
What is your role at Weborama, and what are your responsibilities?
My role as a Sales Manager within the sales team is to develop and retain my client portfolio. The main objective is to increase revenue through the various strategies and offers that Weborama proposes.
Could you share an accomplishment or project that you are particularly proud of since you joined the company?
Since joining Weborama, I am particularly proud of the expansion I have brought to my client portfolio. Indeed, the revenue from my portfolio has seen an increase of over 30% between 2023 and 2022! This success is the result of my improvement, made possible through the support of various teams (Activation, Data & Insights). I managed to meet the challenge that was set for me upon my arrival, and I am delighted to face increasingly stimulating challenges each year.
What skills or qualities do you believe women bring to the field of technology, and how does it strengthen the team at Weborama?
Women bring a wealth of perspectives, skills, and invaluable qualities to the tech sector. Their excellence in communication, ability to collaborate, creativity, and empathy play a crucial role in strengthening teams within Weborama, promoting an inclusive and innovative environment.
How do you perceive the importance of diversity and the representation of women in tech, and how is this reflected at Weborama?
The importance of diversity and the representation of women in the technology field is crucial for fostering innovation, creativity, and inclusive problem-solving. At Weborama, we recognize that the variety of perspectives and experiences is fundamental to driving the growth and success of the company. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment where women are valued, encouraged, and supported in their professional development.
What advice would you give to young women looking to pursue a career in tech, especially at Weborama?
It is crucial to continue learning constantly, seek mentors for wise advice, exhibit self-confidence and assertiveness, build a professional network by participating in industry events, and remain perseverant in the face of obstacles.
Outside of your work, are you involved in any initiatives or activities aimed at promoting diversity and inclusion in tech or within Weborama?
Since last year, I have been involved with the association The Women In Programmatic, which works to promote diversity, inclusion, and the professional development of women in the programmatic sector, a field that involves the automation of online advertising transactions. This association provides a space where women can meet, share their experiences, benefit from mentorship and professional development, while also fostering initiatives aimed at increasing female presence in the industry. Its goal is to contribute to the creation of a fairer and more diverse ecosystem, which, in turn, strengthens the entire programmatic industry.
Can you tell us about a woman in tech who inspires you and how her journey has influenced your own career?
Sheryl Sandberg’s journey in the tech sector is a source of inspiration due to her enlightened leadership, dedication to gender equality, and ability to motivate others to reach their maximum professional potential. She is an emblematic figure in the tech world, having held high-level positions in prestigious companies, including Google and Facebook. She is particularly renowned for her role as Chief Operating Officer (COO) at Facebook, where she played a crucial role in the platform’s rapid expansion and monetization strategy. My interest in her work intensified after starting her book “Lean In,” in which she emphasizes the importance of mutual support among women in the professional environment. She highlights the concept of “taking one’s foot off the gas pedal,” a tendency for women to preemptively withdraw from their professional advancement due to fear of future obstacles like motherhood. Sandberg encourages women to maintain their ambitions and fully commit to their careers while advocating for systemic reform to create more inclusive and fair workplaces.
