How Freshworks is leading change for women in tech

Three female leaders’ dynamic career paths highlight Freshworks’ dedication to making tech more inclusive

Sampriti Singha Roy

Sampriti Singha RoyThe Works contributor

Jan 11, 20241 MINS READ

Editor’s note: Freshworks is partnering with media outlets to amplify our thought leadership stories. Here’s an excerpt of a feature, recently published on HR and tech recruitment site Built In, about three female leaders’ careers

Workplace diversity and equity starts with recruiting. That’s one lesson Sandi Lurie, senior director of talent acquisition at Freshworks, learned early in her career at a previous employer. Lurie and a male colleague joined about the same time doing similar work, but he received more equity. That experience still resonates with her today.

“I reflect on that moment as a lesson for me to be a better advocate for myself, especially when negotiating.”

When Bansri Desai started her career in tech, she had few female colleagues. Now, leading a team that supports the sales organization at Freshworks, Desai has a hand in addressing major workplace issues. 

“The topics that affect women in the workforce are something that I follow closely, and I acknowledge that there have been significant improvements since I began working, but I still believe there is much more that can be done to support working women with families.”

Employees can—and should—advocate for their own professional development, says Pam Sergeeff, chief legal officer at Freshworks. One way to do that? Volunteer for projects outside your scope. 

“I have been able to work on a wide array of traditionally ‘non-legal’ projects across the business, including infrastructure and entity-level process improvements, enhancements for go-to-market operations, and strategic projects for the company.” 

Read the full article on Built In, which recognized Freshworks in its 2024 Best Places to Work awards. Interested in joining the team? Freshworks is hiring