The ratio of women to men in tech roles has significantly dropped in the past 35 years, according to the data from Accenture. In the era of AI, we stand at a crossroads where the opportunity to create a future where technology empowers all, or we risk reinforcing outdated and discriminatory norms like gender bias and discrimination.
However, as they say, “The night is darkest before sunrise.”
The sun is about to rise as women are now stepping forward and playing a crucial role in global digitalization. Ingunn Dahl-Engh, CEO of Tappin AS, is one such leader who is breaking barriers and redefining the tech sector. Her professional background covers a cross-section of both national and larger international companies within the Technology and Software industry. With over 18 years of experience in management positions, Ingunn has a proven track record of growing businesses, building trust, and delivering results.
We, The Enterprise World Magazine, are honored to feature Ingunn Dahl-Engh as one of the most influential women leaders in 2024.
A Journey of Growth and Innovation
Ingunn’s career trajectory began in a modest Norwegian IT company, where she quickly distinguished herself as a driving force behind its expansion. As the sole sales manager, she played a pivotal role in recruiting and developing a talented team, propelling the company from a small-scale operation to a reputable market player within just three years.
Her subsequent move to a national international company allowed her to replicate this success on a larger scale. By setting ambitious targets and breaking them down into achievable milestones, she successfully cultivated the Nordic markets, demonstrating her exceptional organizational and business development skills.
Beyond her professional accomplishments, Ingunn’s academic background and personal achievements underscore her dedication and determination. With a master’s degree in communication management and a former national and Nordic Taekwondo champion, she brings a unique blend of strategic thinking, interpersonal skills, and resilience to her leadership roles.
Her current position as CEO of Tappin AS is a testament to her ability to steer challenges and drive innovation. Despite the disruptions caused by the pandemic, she successfully pivoted the company’s event solutions to a fully digital format, resulting in significant growth and stability. Under her leadership, Tappin continues to push the boundaries of technology and deliver cutting-edge solutions that meet the dynamic needs of corporations and organizations worldwide.
A Vision of Digital Event Solutions
Under the leadership of Ingunn, Tappin AS has emerged as a pioneering force in digital event solutions. “My first wish was to put us on the map, which required a clear vision within the company,” quotes Ingunn. With a clear and inspiring vision, she has guided the company towards its goal of becoming a global leader in the industry.
Vision: To be the go-to event solution for all, regardless of size or complexity.
Mission: To innovate digital event solutions that connect people and knowledge globally.
Core Values:
Tappin’s cutting-edge software solutions are revolutionizing the way corporate events, conferences, and leadership training are conducted. By offering a comprehensive platform that encompasses everything from invitations and registration to event management, event app for in- person events, online events and hybrid options, Tappin is simplifying the event planning process for organizers and enhancing the experience for participants. The clear trend is to integrate Tappin’s solution to CRM systems and web pages in order to further improve the total event planning, and reduce manual work.
This all-in-one approach provides numerous benefits, including:
Tappin’s commitment to innovation and excellence has positioned it as a leader in the digital event solutions space. As the company continues to evolve and expand its offerings, it is poised to shape the future of events and networking. Under the leadership of Ingunn, Tappin AS is transforming the event industry and setting a new standard for digital solutions.
Overcoming Adversity through Resilient Leadership
As the leader, Ingunn has faced a myriad of challenges in leading a technology company in a dynamic industry. One of the most significant hurdles she has encountered was the shifting landscape of events due to the pandemic. The uncertainty surrounding physical gatherings forced Tappin to adapt quickly to a market that increasingly embraced digital and hybrid formats.
Despite the challenges posed by market fluctuations and uncertain event planning, Ingunn has remained steadfast in her leadership. By maintaining adaptability and focusing on delivering value to clients, she has guided Tappin through these turbulent times.
Mentorship and empowerment are integral to her leadership philosophy. She provides opportunities for younger team members to take on leadership roles, offering guidance and support while promoting a culture of learning and growth. Regular feedback, training programs, and open communication create a safe environment where individuals can thrive and develop their leadership skills.
Innovation is a cornerstone of Tappin’s success. While Ingunn emphasizes the importance of being innovative, she recognizes that being a first mover is not always necessary. Instead, the focus is on delivering solutions that create tangible value for clients. The company, on the other hand, ensures it remains competitive and ahead of the curve by continuously improving existing products and incorporating customer feedback.
Cultivating a culture of collaboration and open communication is another key aspect of Ingunn’s leadership. Regular team meetings, brainstorming sessions, and feedback loops ensure that everyone’s voice is heard and valued. By promoting a sense of ownership and encouraging individual initiative, Ingunn enables a team environment that is both creative and productive.
Driving Innovation and Diversity at Tappin AS
Ingunn’s strategic approach to leadership extends to her focus on investment, growth, diversity, and inclusion at Tappin. By staying abreast of market trends, customer feedback, and technological advancements, she ensures that the company’s investments align with growing industry demands while promoting a diverse and inclusive workplace.
Tappin’s commitment to innovation is evident in its proactive approach to identifying growth areas. Regular assessments of existing offerings and customer engagements enable the company to identify opportunities for improvement and expansion. This focus on customer needs ensures that Tappin remains competitive and relevant in the rapidly changing technological landscape.
To promote diversity and inclusion, Tappin has implemented various initiatives, including:
By creating a workplace where everyone feels valued and included, Ingunn is promoting diversity while encouraging a culture of innovation and collaboration. This commitment to diversity and inclusion is a testament to her leadership and Tappin’s dedication to creating a positive and inclusive work environment.
Ingunn’s strategic approach to leadership ensures that the company is well-positioned to invest in growth and create a diverse and inclusive workplace. This combination of factors contributes to the company’s success and its ability to remain at the forefront of the digital event solutions industry.
Shaping the Future of Digital Event Solutions
Ingunn is optimistic about the future of the technology and software sector, anticipating significant advancements in artificial intelligence, machine learning, and automation. She believes that the demand for Software as a service solutions, embracing event solutions covering in-person, hybrid solutions and digital transformation will continue to rise as businesses adapt to evolving work environments. Additionally, sustainability will become a key focus, with companies increasingly adopting eco-friendly practices.
For Tappin AS, Ingunn envisions a future marked by leadership in the event technology space. Over the next five years, she aims to solidify the company’s reputation for innovative solutions and exceptional customer service. Its long-term goals include expanding its market reach, enhancing its product offerings, and forging strategic partnerships with industry leaders.
By embracing these trends and focusing on innovation and growth, Ingunn is positioning Tappin AS to play a significant role in shaping the future of event solutions. Her vision for the company’s continued success is driven by a commitment to meeting customer needs, exceeding expectations, and adapting to the technological industry.
Inspiring Future Generations
Ingunn’s inspiring story is a testament to her dedication to breaking all gender barriers and leading towards a better tomorrow. She offers valuable advice to aspiring women leaders in the tech industry:
- “Believe in Yourself” – Confidence in your abilities is essential for success.
- “Network and Build Relationships” – Connect with other professionals, seek mentorship, and actively participate in industry discussions.
- “Embrace Continuous Learning” – The tech industry is constantly evolving, so stay adaptable and committed to learning, and say yes to the opportunities which are coming your way.
- “Voice Your Ideas” – Your perspective is valuable, so don’t hesitate to share your thoughts and ideas.
Ingunn’s goal is to leave a lasting legacy of empowerment and inspiration. She aims to be remembered as a leader who promoted collaboration, innovation, and inclusivity within her organization and the broader tech industry. By inspiring the next generation of leaders, particularly women, to pursue their passions in technology, Ingunn hopes to make a significant impact on the industry and create a more equitable and inclusive future.