Embracing different roles: Tech Leader and a Personal Trainer
I’ve had a passion for two things in my life since I was a kid: technology and sports. I’ve educated myself in both areas, and I’ve built a career that allows me to pursue both. While my primary focus is my role as Senior Vice President for Cloud Development at Solita, I also guide fitness classes at SATS in Stockholm, keeping my personal trainer skills active.
After growing up surrounded by computers—my father worked at IBM—it was natural for me to develop a strong interest in tech. However, I also loved sports, so I initially pursued a career as a personal trainer. Over time, I realised that while I found the human body and brain fascinating, I craved the challenge of a constantly evolving field. That’s when I shifted back to IT, earning a solid foundation with a mechanical engineering degree from the Royal Institute of Technology in Stockholm.
In my early career, I was fortunate to go through a trainee program that gave me wide experience in consulting and management before shifting my focus to more technology-oriented roles. I had a steep learning curve and a big growth journey in my previous company, where I grew to become a leader overseeing a team of up to 200 people. One of my proudest moments was being recognised as “Consultant of the Year.”
Last September marked the beginning of a new chapter when I joined Solita. I was drawn by its collaborative culture and the chance to help build something from the ground up. At Solita, we are a small but strong team in Sweden, yet we’re part of a larger international network, which creates exciting opportunities to work across borders.
Boundaries and prioritising my well-being have helped me to find balance
With two young children, I know the challenges of maintaining balance and well-being in a demanding industry. I have developed a mindset that allows me to be fully present in both work and home life, at least most of the time.
My approach includes setting boundaries—like avoiding work distractions during family time—and prioritising physical activity, which I see as a form of therapy. Teaching fitness classes and being active myself with a variety of practices like yoga, breathwork, running, and meditation have remained a constant in my life, giving me an outlet beyond work.
Solita’s supportive culture, flexible work environment, and wellness benefits have also supported me in maintaining this balance, reinforcing my belief that no email is urgent enough to sabotage personal health. Putting things in perspective has been helpful.
Doing my part in supporting other women in tech
Being a woman in the tech industry comes with its own set of challenges. I’ve often found myself as the only woman in the room, and I’ve felt the need to work twice as hard to prove myself. The industry has historically been male-dominated, and for a long time, women in tech had to fight hard for their positions, sometimes leading to a more competitive than collaborative environment.
But I see this shifting. Today, I believe we’re making progress. More women are finding their place in tech, and companies like Solita foster diversity and inclusion. That said, real change requires active effort. I do my part by seeking out female talent in development and advocating for a more inclusive industry.
I also encourage women to take up space and voice their ideas with confidence. It’s common for women to feel hesitant about speaking up, whereas men often assert themselves more readily. My advice? Don’t be afraid to take the floor—your perspective is valuable, and you belong in the conversation.
True expertise comes with time and experience
Mentors have played a crucial role in my career, and I can’t emphasise enough the importance of mentorship and support from people who have walked a similar path and offered guidance.
Another key lesson I’ve learned is the value of patience. Many people, including women, feel pressure to advance quickly in their careers, but I believe true expertise comes with time and experience. It’s okay to take the time to grow into your role. Don’t rush the process—genuine expertise develops over time.
Looking ahead, I’m excited about leading Solita’s new AI-focused unit and fostering stronger collaboration among women in tech. I believe that if there is will and effort, we can create an industry where everyone has the opportunity to grow and thrive.
Interested to join Solita? See our open positions.