“Trust your gut and believe in yourself, and do it. If it feels scary, it’s probably something that you’re going to gain so much more value from.”
Zoe Gill, Vice President of Consulting Services at CGI, didn’t follow a traditional path into tech, and that’s exactly what makes her journey so powerful. What began as a summer job instead of university turned into a 20-year career she never planned but truly made her own.
Described by Zoe herself as a “proud working-class Northerner,” she champions squiggly careers (a concept from 2 ladies named Helen Tupper and Sarah Ellis), authentic leadership, and building success by being unapologetically yourself. She believes real growth comes from trying fast, failing faster, and backing yourself degree or no degree.
Named on the Northern Power Women Power List, Zoe is passionate about making tech an accessible, inclusive space for everyone. “You have to see it to believe you can be it,” she says, and she’s on a mission to ensure that future generations do.
Watch the full interview to hear Zoe’s career advice, why trusting your gut is a career superpower, and why bringing your whole self to work matters more than any job title.
What book would you recommend for our Women Rock bookshelf?
I went through a period of reading a lot of leadership psychology books and became a big fan of Brené Brown, id recommend “Dare to lead”
What is your favourite song?
Depends on my mood, I love Adele and could listen to her on repeat forever, I drink wine is one of my favourites. I also love Oasis, still trying to bag tickets for this years reunion and I grew up in the 90’s so love a 90’s pop / dance track.
Finally, could you leave us with your favourite quote?
I covered one in my blog, the other is a bit cheesy but my mum loved it and I’m not shy about being first up on the dance floor so coupled with my tenacity feels very appropriate – Life isn’t about waiting for the storm to pass but is learning to dance in the rain 😊
Interviewed by Steve Dalley
