In recent years, the landscape of women’s leadership has undergone significant change. Previously, women were seldom visible in top positions; however, they now hold roles as influential decision-makers. Proficient in making crucial choices and addressing intricate business problems, this shift is attributed to their adeptness at comprehending others and employing astute thinking. They establish workplaces where inclusivity is paramount, emphasizing the significance of diverse teams for a company’s growth. Their contributions encompass a broad spectrum, from introducing diverse perspectives and fostering teamwork to generating novel ideas and steering companies toward success.

Among these impactful women entrepreneurs, we had the privilege of interviewing Samrah Khan, the Global Head of Strategic Partnerships at Google Cloud. With nearly two decades in the industry, she has assimilated extensive knowledge that has propelled her career. Below, she discusses her career trajectory and the qualities that make her a formidable female entrepreneur.

Samrah’s Journey to Become an Entrepreneur

Samrah recounts her journey through education and work. Her story interlaces experiences from Pakistan to the U.S., acquainting her with diverse cultures and igniting a passion for technology and innovation. These influences, coupled with a resolute desire to address real-world issues, impelled her to become an entrepreneur and leader. Despite encountering challenges, she regarded them as chances for personal development. These experiences motivated her to embrace complexity and create opportunities for progress. Furthermore, she articulates, “Witnessing the potential of technology to make a tangible impact, I was spurred to become a business leader, leveraging innovation to drive positive change in the business landscape.”

Shifting to her tenure at Google, her narrative shines. The company’s focus on innovation, data-driven decision-making, and a culture of continuous learning profoundly shaped her leadership approach. Google’s emphasis on diverse viewpoints and the promotion of novel ideas exerted a lasting influence. Without hesitation, she endorses Google as an employer. “Google’s emphasis on fostering diverse perspectives and encouraging individuals to challenge the status quo has left an indelible mark on me. I wholeheartedly recommend Google as a workplace for those who seek a platform to make a real impact,” asserts Samrah. The platform offers opportunities for impact, exposure to cutting-edge technologies, and collaborative engagement in shaping the future. Google’s culture of curiosity empowers individuals to explore uncharted territories – an ideal fit for those pursuing growth in a dynamic milieu.

Resilience and Adaptability with Tailored Solutions for Efficiency and Innovation

Samrah guides us through her roles and capabilities. In her capacity as the Global Head of Strategic Partnerships, she leads teams and fosters teamwork. This entails overseeing diverse groups of individuals and facilitating their effective collaboration.

When encountering challenges, Samrah relies on certain vital attributes. She underscores the significance of open communication, as it facilitates idea sharing and nurtures trust among individuals. Additionally, she places importance on granting team members the authority to make decisions regarding their work, thereby enhancing their motivation and engagement. In the face of adversity, she perseveres rather than giving up, exhibiting strength and adaptability. She leverages challenges as opportunities for learning and enhancement. Furthermore, she states, “I strongly believe in fostering an inclusive work environment that values diverse perspectives, which is instrumental in overcoming challenges and driving collective success.”

Samrah also discusses the industries that command her attention. These industries consistently embrace new technologies, such as supply chains and technology partnerships. Individuals within these domains frequently grapple with optimizing operational efficiency, ensuring data security, and adapting to swift technological shifts. Her role involves addressing these issues. Samrah appends, “Our services are meticulously designed to address these pain points, providing tailored solutions that empower businesses to navigate the evolving tech landscape with confidence.”

Building a Strong Team: Embracing Diversity and Collaboration

For Samrah, cultivating a successful team derives from esteeming differences, fostering teamwork, and maintaining a perpetual learning mindset. She places significance on ensuring that team members recognize the importance of their ideas and share them openly. Engaging in dialogue and active listening aids collective efforts toward shared objectives. She is of the belief that acknowledging even minor accomplishments can significantly impact employees’ motivation. She accentuates, “Recognizing and celebrating achievements, no matter how small, goes a long way in keeping employees motivated. Additionally, providing growth opportunities, whether through training or challenging projects, empowers team members to constantly learn and evolve.” This approach aids in the ongoing improvement of team members.

Samrah also places emphasis on ensuring her team attains a harmonious equilibrium between work and personal lives. She adds, “Promoting work-life balance and wellness initiatives contributes to a positive work environment, fostering sustained motivation and overall well-being.”  She advocates for programs that contribute to everyone’s health and happiness. When individuals experience well-being, they are more inclined to maintain motivation and perform effectively at work.

Empowering Through Change: Supporting Women’s Rise

Samrah values equality and articulates her perspectives on the shifting attitudes toward gender balance in the business realm. She observes positive transformations taking place. Businesses now recognize the significance of possessing diverse teams encompassing both men and women to achieve success. Samrah affirms, “To foster women’s empowerment within my company, I prioritize several strategies. Mentorship programs provide a platform for aspiring women leaders to gain insights, guidance, and support from experienced professionals.” Additionally, she arranges networking events that facilitate women’s interaction, story-sharing, and collaborative endeavors.

Ensuring inclusivity for all holds great importance for her. She believes that when women experience comfort and value, they are more likely to assume leadership positions. Samrah dedicates herself to providing women with equal opportunities as men and guaranteeing equitable treatment for both genders. She also aspires for her company to be an environment where mutual support thrives, acknowledging the contributions of women and men on an equal footing.

Embracing Industry Evolution: A Constant Source of Excitement

Samrah openly shares her sentiments about her field. What she finds most appealing is the ever-changing nature of the tech industry. It resembles a swiftly flowing river that never ceases. There is always something new to learn, experiment with, and enhance. This constant evolution maintains her enthusiasm and vitality. She consistently positions herself at the forefront, eager to acquaint herself with the latest developments.

Yet, there exists a challenge as well. The tech realm evolves so swiftly that staying current demands ongoing effort. It’s like chasing a nonstop train. Samrah remarks, “It requires a continuous commitment to learning and adaptation to remain relevant. While this challenge keeps me on my toes, it’s also a testament to the industry’s vibrant and transformative nature.”

Crafting Work-Life Balance: An Approach to Health and Performance

To ensure she remains well-rested and performs at her peak, Samrah attends to various aspects of her well-being. First, she recognizes the significance of quality sleep and adheres to a consistent sleep schedule to ensure she maintains vitality. Second, she places importance on maintaining her physical health. She engages in regular exercise, whether by embarking on a morning run, practicing yoga, or participating in workouts. Incorporating a balanced diet into her routine is another pivotal aspect. Samrah affirms, “A balanced and nutritious diet is a cornerstone of my routine, providing the necessary fuel for sustained focus and energy throughout the day.”

Regarding the balance between work and personal life, Samrah understands it as an ongoing endeavor. She establishes clear boundaries for work hours, which enhances her ability to concentrate. However, she also recognizes the potential of technology to blur the lines between work and personal time. Thus, she discloses, “I consciously designate periods of disconnection to recharge and enjoy moments free from work-related distractions.”

Advice to Aspiring Women Entrepreneurs

• I wholeheartedly believe that aspiring female leaders can pave their path to success by harnessing the power of allyship. Establishing a robust network of support, both within and outside the organization, is invaluable. Having a sponsor who champions your growth and development can propel you forward, providing invaluable guidance and opportunities.
• Building a diverse network of both men and women, both in your professional and personal spheres, offers a wealth of perspectives and insights. 
• Don’t hesitate to seek assistance when needed – asking for help is not a sign of weakness, but rather a display of strength and a commitment to growth.
• One crucial piece of advice is to never give up. Perseverance is key on the journey to leadership. Continuously challenge the status quo, fearlessly advocating for change and pushing boundaries. 
• Embrace your accomplishments and share your success stories with pride. Your achievements not only reflect your hard work but also inspire others to embark on their own journeys.

ALSO READ: The 10 Visionary Tech Leader, 2024