WCT takes dead aim at lack of women in top jobs

OTTAWA, Nov. 12, 2014 /CNW/ - Women in Communications and Technology (WCT) today announced that it is accepting applications for its innovative The Protégé Project, a pioneering new program to spur female leadership in Canada's communications, media and technology sectors. A partnership with Catalyst Canada, a global nonprofit organization expanding opportunities for women and business, and Shaw Communications, The Protégé Project will see fast-tracking senior women executives matched with powerful sponsors who will give them a leg-up to the industry's top decision-making positions and a direct line to influence innovation in the digital economy.

Women in Communications and Technology is a grassroots community network of more than 3,000 members run by 300 volunteers.  It was created 22 years ago to inspire and advance women as leaders and contributors to Canada's digital marketplace.

"The Protégé Project will boost women's representation in power positions in a way that's never been done before," says Janice McDonald, Chair of the national board of directors at WCT. "It will encourage cross-sector partnerships; sponsors and women they champion won't necessarily be in the same industry or even the same job stream."

Communications, media and technology companies acknowledge that their boards and senior-management ranks are falling far short when it comes to welcoming women. Evidence is mounting that a diverse leadership is a business imperative, a must-have to drive globalization, customer growth and financial success. Yet, less than 30 per cent of the top positions in these sectors are held by women.

The Protégé Project is groundbreaking in its approach and focus. So far, twelve C-level executives have signed on to be paired with qualified, aspiring women who are already top performers at senior levels. The "sponsors" will pick up where "mentors" often leave off. They'll be all-out champions, endorsing, guiding and connecting their partners to those who can help them move to the top rung of the ladder.

Sponsors who have signed on to The Protégé Project so far include:

• Namir Anani, President & CEO, Information and Communications Technology Council
• Jeff Boyd, Regional President, Alberta & The Territories
• Corinne Charette, Chief Information Officer, Government of Canada
• Sara Diamond, University President, OCAD
• Wendy Freeman, President, CTV News
• Elmer Hildebrand, CEO, Golden West Radio
• Goldy Hyder, President & CEO, Hill + Knowlton Strategies
• Mitch Joel, President, Twist Image
• Raja Khanna, CEO, Blue Ant Media
• Jean LaRose, CEO, Aboriginal Peoples Television Network
• Jim Little, CMO, Shaw Communications
• Craig Muhlhauser, President & CEO, Celestica Inc.

"At Shaw, we believe a diverse and balanced workforce reflective of our population generates well-rounded thought and perspective, and is critical in delivering exceptional customer experiences," says Barbara Williams, President, Shaw Media. "Our hope is that those who benefit from the project will also pay it forward, and as these sponsored women start to advance, we see a ripple effect, a groundswell of women helping the next round of up-and-coming female leaders to move up, too."

For more information on the program and how to apply, visit https://www.wct-fct.com/en/programs/protege-project.

About WCT
Women in Communications and Technology (WCT) is a national association committed to helping women in Canada learn, build strong relationships and advance in telecommunications, media and technology. WCT provides opportunities for its members to network, be mentored, and get access to targeted educational opportunities relevant to their career advancement.

SOURCE: Women in Communications and Technology (WCT)

Joanne Stanley, Executive Director, jstanley@wct-fct. com, 613-706-0607, ext.102.