In Her Words: Anna, Warehouse Systems Domain Lead at Picnic

Who has been your biggest role model throughout your career (or life), and how has their influence shaped your approach to work?

My biggest role model has been my grandmother. Born in 1929, during a time when women had very limited rights and opportunities, she defied the odds by earning a degree in physics and building a successful career as an engineer. Her determination to succeed in a male-dominated field, coupled with her unwavering optimism in the face of life’s challenges, has deeply influenced my approach to work. She taught me the value of perseverance, resilience, and maintaining a positive outlook — even when the odds are against you.

If you could point to one skill that has been the most valuable in your career, what would it be, and how did you develop it?

One of the most valuable skills in my career — and one I believe I inherited from my grandmother’s optimism — is the ability to keep going, no matter the setbacks. I’ve learned that there’s always another opportunity, another door that might open. This mindset has helped me stay resilient and proactive, especially in challenging moments. By continuing to try, even when the outcome is uncertain, we create space for growth, learning, and ultimately, success.

What’s one unexpected piece of advice you would give to someone who dreams of being in your shoes one day, especially in terms of personal growth and career fulfillment?

One unexpected piece of advice I’d give is: don’t try to act like a man just to fit into a male-dominated industry like tech. Your strength lies in your authenticity. What you bring — your unique perspective, approach, and lived experience — is what drives real innovation and adds true value. Embracing your individuality is not only empowering, it’s also exactly what the industry needs more of.

How important is it for students and recent graduates to build a network early on, and what steps can they take early in their career (or studies) to stand out?

Building a network early in your studies or career is incredibly important. It helps you gain exposure, learn from others, and uncover opportunities that might not be visible otherwise. Throughout my career, I’ve been part of both women-focused networks like Women in Big Data and broader professional communities such as ProductTank Meetups. These networks have been valuable sources of insight, mentorship, and inspiration — and they’ve often led to lasting friendships, useful advice, and even new job opportunities.

What role does having or building a strong network play in your career? Has it helped you open doors or navigate challenges? To what extent is it important for young talent to build their networks early on?

For me, building a strong network has had two key benefits. First, it’s a great way to actively develop soft skills like negotiation and decision-making — especially when you’re involved in organizing or leading initiatives within the network. Second, it significantly increases your visibility beyond your company and your immediate area of work. This broader exposure can open up unexpected opportunities and help position you as a proactive, engaged professional within the industry.

For young women looking to make their mark in IT, how important is it to find a supportive community or network, and what should they look for in a mentor or role model?

I truly believe it’s incredibly important for young women in IT to build a strong network of like-minded peers — and especially to find role models they can look up to. Seeing someone who has walked a similar path not only boosts confidence, but also provides motivation and a sense of belonging. A supportive community creates space for honest conversations, shared experiences, and encouragement — all of which are essential for navigating a field where women are still underrepresented.

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