At Vesta Software Group, we’re proud to celebrate the remarkable women shaping the future of software across our organisation. This International Women’s Day, we invited some of the talented women driving innovation and growth to share their journeys, insights, and advice for thriving in the industry.
Meet the women leading the way
- Agustina Somma – Managing Director, GSoft
- Sharon Denton – Peak Performance Manager, Vesta Software Group
- Lucía Vázquez – Managing Director, Nodum
- Lynne Reeves – Managing Director, Motion Software
- Carolina Gutierrez – Portfolio Leader, Vesta Software Group
- Andrea de Armas – Managing Director, Datalogic
- Maria Noel Chenchal – Transactional Supervisor, Vesta Software Group
While each individual’s experience is unique, common themes emerge – mentorship, leadership, inclusivity, and the importance of taking opportunities.
Key insights from women at Vesta
Getting started in the software industry
Many of our leaders found their way into tech from different paths. Lucía Vázquez and Andrea de Armas started in accounting and finance but were drawn to the problem-solving and innovation technology offers. Carolina Gutierrez entered the industry through financial technology at a time when the internet was just emerging, sparking a passion for digital transformation. Lynne Reeves started as a software trainer at Gladstone Software in 2004, navigating career shifts and growth opportunities that ultimately led her to her current role as Managing Director of Motion Software. Others, like Sharon Denton, took a non-traditional route, transitioning from the sports industry into tech project management, where her background in operations and leadership proved invaluable.
The role of mentorship
Mentorship has played a crucial role in shaping many of these careers. Agustina Somma credits her father and key colleagues for inspiring her leadership growth, while Maria Noel Chenchal found guidance in strong female mentors who helped her refine her organisational and leadership skills. For Lucía Vázquez, mentorship started at home – her father, a pioneer in technology, instilled in her the value of innovation and an entrepreneurial mindset. Lynne Reeves highlights the importance of having strong advocates who believe in your potential, push you forward, and provide valuable leadership lessons.
What makes a workplace where women thrive?
An inclusive culture, leadership opportunities, and flexibility are key factors in fostering a thriving workplace for women. Carolina Gutierrez highlights the importance of mentorship networks and leadership pathways that extend beyond traditional career tracks. Sharon Denton believes representation matters—seeing women in leadership roles encourages future generations to aspire to those positions. Lynne Reeves emphasises that workplaces should focus on skills, contributions, and potential rather than gender, creating an environment where talent speaks for itself.
Advice for women entering the tech/software space
Agustina Somma encourages women to embrace the industry with confidence, emphasising the essential skills they bring – leadership, teamwork, and organisation. Sharon Denton stresses the importance of continuous learning, mentorship, and stepping outside comfort zones. For Lucía Vázquez, the message is simple: if you love technology, creativity, and challenges, go for it!
Spotlight: Individual journeys
Agustina Somma, Managing Director at GSoft
Agustina began her career at 19 while studying systems engineering, gaining experience in IT security, development, and sales before taking on her role as Managing Director. She has been shaped by strong mentors, including her father and colleagues at GSoft and Vesta, who have influenced her approach to leadership and strategy. Her advice to women entering tech? “Let them do it! Women excel in leadership, teamwork, and organisation – skills that are crucial for success in this industry.”
Sharon Denton, Peak Performance Manager at Vesta Software Group
With a background in competitive waterskiing and sports operations, Sharon transitioned into tech when she worked with Gladstone Software. Her deep understanding of the software from a user perspective enabled her to excel in project management, professional services, and leadership before joining Vesta. She believes inclusivity, support, and opportunity are key to fostering a thriving workplace. “Take every opportunity to learn. Tech is a field full of possibilities – whether in coding, project management, or leadership. Stay curious and challenge yourself.”
Lucía Vázquez, CEO at Nodum
Originally an accountant, Lucía realised early on that her true passion was in technology. She was drawn to the industry’s creativity and its ability to transform businesses. Her father, a visionary in technology, was her greatest mentor, teaching her the importance of innovation and customer focus. Her advice? “If you love technology, creativity, and challenges, don’t hesitate for a second!”
Lynne Reeves, Managing Director at Motion Software
Lynne started her career in software in 2004 as a software trainer at Gladstone Software. Despite having no formal training background, she embraced the challenge and grew into new roles. After taking time off to start a family, she returned just as Gladstone was acquired by Jonas, which unknowingly became a pivotal moment in her career. In 2019, she was selected for the Jonas Leadership Program and became one of just 10 global Most Valuable Players (MVPs). After 18 years with Gladstone, she stepped out of her comfort zone to take on the challenge of leading Motion Software in 2022. Speaking to women interested in tech, she says: “Focus on your skills, your work ethic, and your ability to learn and adapt. If you have the right mindset and are willing to step outside your comfort zone, there’s no reason for anything to be a barrier. The best opportunities often come when you least expect them, so don’t be afraid to take a chance – you never know where it might lead.”
Carolina Gutierrez, Portfolio Leader at Vesta Software Group
Carolina’s career began at Citibank, where she developed financial technology products during the early days of the internet. She later transitioned into strategic planning, innovation policy, and investment strategy before leading our LATAM portfolio of software companies at Vesta. She believes a workplace where women thrive must offer leadership opportunities beyond traditional career paths, encourage flexible work models, and champion diversity. “Be proactive in seeking leadership roles and understanding how technology integrates with different industries – it’s a highly valuable skill.”
Andrea de Armas, CEO at Datalogic
Andrea’s journey into tech began in accounting, but she soon recognised the impact of technology on business. She progressed from Junior Consultant to Head of ERP Consulting before becoming CEO. She has always valued workplaces that empower talented individuals. “At Datalogic, there has always been equality of opportunity for women. The key is to provide those opportunities and empower talented individuals.” Her advice? “Believe in yourself. Confidence and adaptability are essential in a constantly evolving industry.”
Maria Noel Chenchal, Transactional Supervisor at Vesta Software Group
Maria’s career started in administration at GeneXus, where she played a key role in the company’s expansion. She now oversees financial operations at Vesta. Mentorship has been instrumental in her growth, with leaders like Karina Santo and Laura Passaro shaping her career. “Trust in your abilities and take the leap. The tech industry is dynamic and full of opportunities for those willing to learn.”
Breaking barriers for the future
Women remain underrepresented in the tech industry, making up just 28% of the workforce globally, with an even smaller percentage in leadership roles. At Vesta, we are committed to breaking these barriers by fostering leadership development, mentorship programs, and inclusive workplace policies.
This International Women’s Day, we celebrate the achievements of the women driving innovation within our group. Their journeys, insights, and leadership continue to inspire us to build a more diverse and inclusive future.
