Women in Tech: Choose to Challenge and #BreakTheBias
08/03/2022 | by Proximity
Celebrating Women in Tech at Proximity Insight
This year’s International Women’s Day theme is #BreakTheBias — a powerful call to action for greater equality, especially in the tech industry. To mark the occasion, we spoke with our CEO and Co-Founder, Cathy McCabe, about her journey in tech and what breaking the bias means to her.
A Balanced Team in an Unbalanced Industry
At Proximity Insight, we’re proud to have a 50/50 gender split. That’s rare in tech, where only 19% of roles are held by women. We share our story to show that gender balance is possible — and powerful.
Our female team members work across all areas: from leadership and product to customer success and engineering. Many are working mums balancing home and career, all while helping drive our company forward.
Inspiring the Next Generation
We hope the amazing women at Proximity Insight inspire a new generation of girls and young women to explore careers in tech. Tech isn’t just coding — it offers creative, flexible, and fulfilling paths for everyone.
Q&A with Cathy McCabe
What does #BreakTheBias mean to you?
“It’s about doing things differently — for everyone. Both women and men need to challenge the status quo to make change possible.”
Why is International Women’s Day important?
“It’s a chance to celebrate achievements and share stories. These stories inspire the next generation to believe they can do it too.”
What’s the best thing about being a woman in tech?
“Tech offers the chance to disrupt and build something meaningful — on your own terms.”
What advice would you give to women starting out?
“Be bold. Be curious. Be confident. Try new things and raise your hand — even for the tough stuff. That’s where the growth happens.”
Where are you working from today?
“I’m at Albright, a female-only club for founders and entrepreneurs. It’s an inspiring space to connect, learn, and share.”
Why is it important to hire women in tech?
“Diverse teams perform better. Gender balance brings fresh ideas, stronger decisions, and better outcomes.”
Has the industry changed since you started?
“There are definitely more women in tech now — but we still need to show that tech is for everyone, not just coders. It offers flexibility and creativity too.”
What’s the gender balance at Proximity Insight?
“We’re about 50/50 — with strong female leaders throughout the business. It’s something we value deeply.”
What’s been a career highlight?
“Going freelance early in my career gave me the freedom to raise my family and work on exciting projects. Joining Burberry and now leading Proximity Insight are also major milestones.”
What’s been your biggest challenge?
“Working in male-dominated spaces. It takes confidence to trust your value and speak up — but it’s worth it.”
What did you want to be growing up?
“A diplomat! I studied languages and wanted to travel. But I fell in love with retail and never looked back.”
Fun Facts About Cathy
- Favourite team: Tottenham Hotspur
- Favourite colour: Blue
- Favourite flower: Lilies
- Tea or coffee? Tea – herbal or English breakfast
- Wake-up time: 5:30 AM
- First thing she does: Usually checks her phone
- Breakfast: Around 10:30 AM – often oatmeal, fruit, or a vegan sausage roll
- Pets: Two Akitas – Ziggy and Angel
- Apple or Windows? 100% Apple
Standing Together to Break the Bias
We’re proud to stand with women in tech — not just on International Women’s Day, but every day. At Proximity Insight, we’re building a company where everyone is valued, heard, and supported to grow.
Together, we’re working to #BreakTheBias and build a more inclusive future.