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The Women in SAP Report 2024
Contents:
- Progress of women in SAP over time
- Global comparison of women in tech
- The role of AI, economy, and early careers in shaping gender balance
- Practical steps to attract more female applicants
- Insights from Fiona Warburg, UKISUG Women in SAP Co-Chair
1. Progress Over Time
In 2023, women made up 26% of the UK tech workforce. While this is still far from equal, it’s a steady rise from just 19% in 2019. SAP mirrors this trend.
bluewaveSELECT placed 23% women into SAP roles in 2023, up from 15% in 2020. Progress is visible, but there’s still a way to go.
2. How the UK Compares Globally
According to Statista:
- UK: 26% women in tech
- India: 43%
- USA: 34%
- Germany: 17%
The UK sits in the middle of the global range. Cultural and educational differences contribute to these regional gaps.
3. AI, Economic Pressure & Early Careers
AI may reduce bias in hiring – if implemented correctly. But it can also scale existing bias if historical data is flawed.
Economic downturns typically hit diversity targets. With hiring freezes and layoffs, inclusion can drop down the priority list.
Encouraging girls into tech at school-age remains a key long-term strategy. Role models, STEM clubs and inclusive language all make a difference.
4. Practical Interventions for Employers
- De-bias job adverts: Use neutral language and tools like Ongig to avoid male-coded wording.
- Encourage blind applications: Remove names, education, and personal info during early stages.
- Train interviewers: Provide unconscious bias training and standardise interviews with scorecards.
- Support internal development: Proactively encourage women to apply for stretch roles and promotions.
- Measure and publicise: Track your metrics, talk openly about progress, and commit to improvement.
5. Insights from Fiona Warburg
Fiona Warburg, Co-Chair of the UKISUG Women in SAP group, highlights the importance of visibility:
“Seeing women speak at events, lead teams and share real stories is powerful. You can’t be what you can’t see.”
The Women in SAP network continues to grow, with regular meetups, Q&As, and events designed to connect and support women across the SAP ecosystem.
Conclusion
Representation in SAP is improving — but slowly. Employers, partners and the wider SAP community all have a role to play in accelerating gender balance.
For more information or to get involved in the UKISUG Women in SAP group, contact: [email protected]
