Jacqueline de Rojas: A Trailblazing British Businesswoman Driving Digital Transformation and Inclusion

Introduction

Jacqueline de Rojas CBE stands as one of the most influential figures in the UK technology sector. A seasoned technology leader, British businesswoman, and passionate advocate for diversity and inclusion, she has dedicated over three decades to transforming technology businesses and shaping the digital economy. As President of techUK, Chair of Digital Leaders, and Chair of the Institute of Coding, Jacqueline’s work spans from corporate boardrooms to national digital skills policy, making her a pivotal figure in the UK’s tech ecosystem.

Early Life and Education

Born Jacqueline Yu on 11 October 1962 in Folkestone, England, to a Chinese father and British mother, Jacqueline de Rojas embodies a multicultural heritage that has informed her inclusive approach to leadership. She pursued a dual degree in European Business at Middlesex University and Reutlingen University in Germany, equipping her with a strong foundation in international business and technology.

Her early career began in sales at Synon, but her trajectory quickly shifted toward leadership roles in enterprise software and technology companies. This educational and cultural background laid the groundwork for her future as a tech entrepreneur and advocate for gender equality in tech.

Career Highlights and Leadership Roles

A 30-Year Journey in Enterprise Software and Technology

Jacqueline de Rojas has held senior leadership positions at major global technology companies such as Citrix, CA Technologies, McAfee, Novell, and Business Objects. Her expertise spans enterprise software, cybersecurity, and digital transformation, where she has consistently driven growth and innovation.

Board Memberships and Chair Positions

• President of techUK and TechUK President Emeritus, where she advocated for policies that enable the UK technology sector to thrive.

• Chair of Digital Leaders, leading a community that promotes digital innovation and transformation across industries.

• Chair and Co-Chair of the Institute of Coding, a national initiative addressing the digital skills gap by fostering digital education and training.

• Chair of the Bletchley Park Trust, preserving the UK’s tech heritage and promoting awareness of historic contributions to computing and cybersecurity.

• Non-Executive Director roles at Rightmove plc, Costain Group plc (focused on infrastructure technology), FDM Group plc, and IFS AB, where she oversees ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance) initiatives.

Her leadership extends to mentoring roles with organizations like Accelerate-Her and the Girlguiding Association, supporting women and girls in technology.

Advocacy for Diversity, Inclusion, and Gender Equality in Tech

Jacqueline de Rojas is a renowned diversity and inclusion advocate. She has been vocal about the importance of board diversity and the need to close the gender gap in technology. Her efforts have earned her recognition as a leading voice for women in technology, emphasizing that diverse teams drive better business outcomes and innovation.

Her advocacy is reflected in her advisory roles and public speaking engagements, where she champions digital inclusion and equitable access to technology careers. She believes that the future of the digital economy depends on harnessing the full potential of all voices, particularly those historically underrepresented in tech.

Awards and Recognition

Jacqueline’s contributions have been widely acknowledged:

• Awarded Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) in 2018 for services to international trade in technology.

• Named Computer Weekly’s Most Influential Woman in IT in 2015 and inducted into their Hall of Fame in 2018.

• Recipient of the Catherine Variety Award for UK Science and Technology in 2017.

• Honored with an Honorary Doctorate of Engineering from the University of Bath in 2020.

• Recognized as a global leader in digital government and inclusion by various industry bodies.

Impact on Digital Skills and Technology Policy

As Chair of the Institute of Coding, Jacqueline de Rojas has been instrumental in addressing the UK’s digital skills gap. The initiative collaborates with universities, employers, and government to develop innovative educational programs aimed at equipping the workforce with essential digital capabilities.

Her role at techUK and Digital Leaders involves influencing digital government policy, promoting the adoption of AI and cloud technology, and ensuring that technology serves society inclusively and sustainably.

Personal Philosophy and Leadership Style

Jacqueline describes leadership as a continuous process of “course correction,” emphasizing adaptability and resilience. She credits her success to the mentors and experts who supported her and stresses the importance of learning and self-awareness in leadership.

Her personal commitment to digital transformation is matched by her dedication to creating environments where diverse talent thrives, making her a role model for aspiring leaders in technology.

Legacy and Future Vision

Jacqueline de Rojas’s legacy is multifaceted:

• A pioneer in driving gender equality in tech and board diversity.

• A key figure in bridging the digital skills gap to future-proof the UK workforce.

• A guardian of the UK’s technology heritage through her leadership at Bletchley Park.

• An influential voice shaping the UK’s digital economy and technology policy.

Her ongoing work ensures that technology leadership in the UK becomes more inclusive, innovative, and responsive to societal needs.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Who is Jacqueline de Rojas?

Jacqueline de Rojas CBE is a British businesswoman and technology leader known for her roles as President of techUK, Chair of Digital Leaders, and Chair of the Institute of Coding. She is a prominent advocate for diversity and inclusion in the tech sector.

What are Jacqueline de Rojas’s major achievements?

She has been awarded a CBE for services to international trade in technology, named Computer Weekly’s Most Influential Woman in IT, and holds leadership roles on several major corporate boards. She also chairs the Bletchley Park Trust, preserving UK tech heritage.

How does Jacqueline de Rojas contribute to digital skills development?

As Chair of the Institute of Coding, she leads efforts to close the digital skills gap by fostering collaboration between academia, industry, and government to improve digital education and training.

What companies does Jacqueline de Rojas serve as a Non-Executive Director?

She serves on the boards of Rightmove plc, Costain Group plc, FDM Group plc, and IFS AB, contributing her expertise in technology, governance, and ESG.

What is Jacqueline de Rojas’s stance on diversity in technology?

She is a strong advocate for gender equality and board diversity, believing that inclusive teams lead to better innovation and business success.

Jacqueline de Rojas’s career and advocacy illustrate the powerful impact of visionary leadership in technology. Her work continues to shape the UK’s digital future by promoting inclusion, skills development, and sustainable innovation across the tech industry.

CLose News