Lisa Simpson has built an impressive 30-year career working in technology holding positions as division CIO, in product line management, business development, channel management and sales – including several roles with Alcatel-Lucent Enterprise.
How did you land your current role? Was it planned?
This role was part of a planned progression in my career, but it also represented a significant growth opportunity for me. The leadership team recognised my potential while identifying areas where I could further develop to succeed at this level. I’ve always been naturally outspoken, which has been a strength in driving ideas forward. However, stepping into this role within a global organisation required me to refine my approach – balancing assertiveness with diplomacy.
What are the key roles in your field of work, and why did you choose your current expertise?
I’ve been fortunate to hold key roles across various disciplines, including engineering, programme management, product management, marketing, chief technical officer, and sales leadership. What excites me most is engaging with our partners and customers, staying at the forefront of industry and technological advancements. I’m passionate about solving their challenges, collaborating on solutions, and building business together. That’s why I’ve ultimately gravitated toward sales, where I’ve spent most of my career.
Did you (or do you) have a role model in tech or business in general?
Throughout my career, I’ve had the privilege of learning from several remarkable role models. When I graduated with my MBA, a female colleague helped me navigate the complexities of a male-dominated world. She provided invaluable insights into working with men in power during a time when opportunities for women, especially in technology, were limited.
As I moved into product management, I was fortunate to partner with an engineering manager who not only believed in my potential but also showed me the transformative power of collaboration.
Along the way, many individuals – both men and women – took me under their wing, offering advice, encouragement, and opportunities that helped propel my career forward. I’m so grateful to each one of them. Their guidance and support have been instrumental in shaping the person I am today.
What are you most proud of in your career, so far?
I’m most proud of my ability to adapt and evolve throughout my career. I’ve taken on a variety of roles across the tech sector, and each experience has allowed me to explore new challenges, discover what I enjoyed, and identify areas that weren’t the right fit for me.
Not everyone has the opportunity to experiment with such diverse roles within their career, and I feel fortunate to have been able to do so. These experiences have helped me refine my skills, broaden my perspective, and ultimately find a role and industry that I’m truly passionate about.
What does an average work day look like for you?
An average workday for me begins early – sometimes as early as 4 AM – especially if I can squeeze in a workout or a run to start the day. Exercise helps clear my mind and sets a productive tone for what’s always a fast-paced schedule. My mornings are driven by our global operations, with our CEO and my boss based in Singapore and my peers located across EMEA. This means calls often start as early as 6 AM.
I usually block time in the morning to work on research, develop strategies, or address any significant issues that have risen to my level. Throughout the day, I lead all-hands or management calls to share updates on quarterly progress and key areas of focus. I also spend time mentoring team members, analysing trend data, reviewing insights from our analysts, and collaborating on strategic plans to set the direction for our team. Alongside this, there’s the day-to-day tasks, such as resolving bugs in customer networks.
Things start to slow down around 3 PM, which gives me a chance to catch my breath, dive into more detailed research, or step outside to walk the dog and clear my head. I use this quieter time to tackle the last few calls of the day, often with team members on the West Coast or customers in Hawaii.
Are there any specific skills or traits that you notice companies look for when you’re searching for roles in your field?
Knowledge is power, whether it’s specific expertise in a particular field or an aptitude for learning. I’ve found that success in tech hinges on two key factors: having the knowledge to excel in a role and the ability to build trusted relationships. You don’t need to know everything, but you do need to know how to collaborate effectively with others to create successful outcomes.
Has anyone ever tried to stop you from learning and developing in your professional life, or have you found the tech sector supportive?
Yes, many times, unfortunately. Early in my career, I moved from product management to sales in the semiconductor industry. My manager, who had been told to bring me onto his team, said I would never make it in sales and that engineers wouldn’t buy from a woman in what he saw as a ‘man’s business’.
At the time, I was young, new to the state, and unfamiliar with the customers. Despite these challenges, I relied on what I did know: the products. It wasn’t easy, but I was determined. I built trust, fostered relationships, and in the end, became the fastest-growing salesperson on the team.
Have you ever faced insecurities and anxieties during your career, and how did you overcome them?
Imposter syndrome is something many people face, and it seems to affect women disproportionately. There’s this tendency to feel as though we’re not good enough, despite our capabilities. In reality, not only are we good enough, but we are often far more capable than we realise. It’s important to recognise this and remember that seeking support isn’t a sign of weakness, but a powerful tool to help us break through the self-doubt and embrace our true potential.
Entering the world of work can be daunting. Do you have any words of advice for anyone feeling overwhelmed?
Entering the world of work can definitely feel overwhelming, especially after graduating. I have a daughter who’s 22 and recently graduated from the University of Toronto, and I see how many of her peers face similar challenges. The world can seem harsh, and ‘adulting’ is not as easy as we’re often led to believe.
But, while it can feel isolating at times, there’s so much support out there. No one navigates life alone, and you’ll be surprised at how much people are willing to lend a hand when you open up and ask. So, my advice is: don’t be afraid to reach out. You’ll always find people ready to support you – just ask.
What advice would you give other women wanting to reach their career goals in technology?
The best advice I can offer is simple: don’t hesitate to ask for guidance. Just this year, two women reached out to me for advice, and I absolutely loved the opportunity to help. One wanted tips on delivering presentations, and the other sought advice on asserting herself and building confidence.
Above all, make sure you truly love what you do and who you’re doing it with. I always say that if you find yourself dreading Monday on Sunday night, it’s a clear sign something isn’t right. Technology is an incredible field – ever-changing, dynamic, and full of exciting opportunities. If it’s the company, the culture, or the people that are holding you back, don’t hesitate to make a change.
When you’re passionate about your work and surrounded by people you enjoy collaborating with, career growth becomes a natural progression.