Though International Women’s Day is behind us, we are continuing to spotlight voices from across the industry as part of our IWD Voices series, with leaders sharing their journeys, experiences, insights, and the lessons that have shaped them.
Next up, we speak with Olga Dulinskaya, CEO at KIT Global.
In our conversation, Olga reflects on what this year’s IWD theme means to her personally and professionally, and shares how her understanding of fairness has evolved over the course of her career.
She also discusses the responsibility senior leaders carry in shaping equitable workplaces, and the change she most hopes to see for the next generation of women.
The theme for International Women’s Day 2026 is “Rights. Justice. Action. For ALL Women and Girls.” What does this mean to you professionally and personally?
To me, this theme highlights the importance of translating conversations about equality into tangible action. While women represent a significant portion of the workforce in industries like marketing, there is still a noticeable gap when it comes to leadership roles and equal opportunities.
Professionally, it means ensuring that organizations create clear pathways for women to grow, advocate for themselves, and step into leadership positions. Personally, it serves as a reminder that meaningful progress happens when both individuals and institutions actively work toward removing systemic barriers and ensuring that women have the same opportunities to succeed.
What first drew you to your industry, and was there a defining moment that set your career in motion? Was there a role model who influenced you early on?
My journey into leadership within the marketing and digital ecosystem evolved gradually through my professional experiences. One of the most defining moments in my career was being appointed CEO of KIT Global.
Stepping into this role pushed me to navigate uncertainty, make faster decisions, and think more strategically about how every aspect of the business—from product development to company operations—aligns with long-term goals. That experience significantly shaped my leadership approach and strengthened my confidence in trusting my instincts.
How has your understanding of fairness changed as you’ve gained experience and seniority?
Early in my career, fairness seemed straightforward—ensuring that everyone had equal opportunities. Over time, I’ve realized that fairness also involves creating environments where people feel supported enough to advocate for themselves.
I’ve realized that fairness also involves creating environments where people feel supported enough to advocate for themselves.
Research shows that many women hesitate to ask for promotions or raises, sometimes because they fear negative consequences. However, fairness is not just about individual confidence; it’s also about the culture organizations create. When workplaces actively encourage open dialogue and equal evaluation, people feel more empowered to pursue growth opportunities.
As conversations around women and work have evolved, what do you think has genuinely improved—and where do you think more attention and action are still needed?
There has been encouraging progress, particularly in the growing number of women entering the marketing profession. In many regions, women already make up the majority of the marketing workforce.
More attention is needed to ensure that women are encouraged and supported to step into leadership roles, and that organizations actively remove structural barriers that may limit advancement.
However, leadership representation still needs improvement. In India, for instance, women hold around 36 percent of leadership roles in marketing—higher than the global average but still far from equal representation.
More attention is needed to ensure that women are encouraged and supported to step into leadership roles, and that organizations actively remove structural barriers that may limit advancement.
Is there a project or initiative you’ve worked on related to women’s empowerment that you’re particularly proud of? What made it meaningful to you?
At KIT Global, we approach gender diversity and inclusion both structurally and culturally. Structurally, we focus on ensuring that advancement opportunities are visible and accessible across the organization.
Culturally, we work to create space for diverse voices at the decision-making table. Representation matters deeply. When employees see leaders who share similar experiences or backgrounds, it strengthens their sense of belonging and motivation.
We have also implemented Prevention of Sexual Harassment (POSH) training across the organization to ensure that women feel safe and supported in the workplace.
What responsibility do senior leaders have in shaping more equitable workplaces, beyond statements or policies?
Senior leaders play a critical role in shaping workplace culture. Representation at the leadership level sends a powerful message about what is possible within an organization.
When companies already have women in senior roles, it often creates a ripple effect—encouraging other women to pursue leadership opportunities and advocate for their growth.
Representation at the leadership level sends a powerful message about what is possible within an organization.
Leaders must also invest in education and advancement opportunities that equip women with the skills and confidence needed to step into leadership positions
What is one change you would like to see in workplaces for the next generation of women?
I would like to see workplaces where women feel equally encouraged to pursue leadership opportunities and advocate for their career growth.
As digital transformation accelerates—especially in markets like India—it is opening new opportunities for women to participate in leadership, entrepreneurship, and technology-driven roles.
I would like to see workplaces where women feel equally encouraged to pursue leadership opportunities and advocate for their career growth.
If organizations continue to support inclusive leadership and create equitable growth opportunities, the next generation of women will be able to advance with greater confidence and fewer barriers.
Quick Hits
A trend you are excited about, or not excited about:
I’m encouraged by the growing focus on equal pay for women and men, as well as the broader idea of how cerebral equality is not defined by gender.
A creative campaign or representation of women that inspired you or made you feel seen:
“Be One of Many” by Mercedes-Benz. I love the idea that progress is not always about being the first or the only woman in a space, but about normal participation — women being present, contributing, and leading across fields without it needing to be extraordinary.
A piece of advice that stayed with you longer than expected:
“Manage your manager’s expectations.” It sounds simple, but it’s a powerful reminder that clarity, communication, and alignment are often the keys to effective collaboration and leadership.
