Kim Bozzella 
Protiviti
Excellence in Innovation
Kim Bozzella understands the importance of acknowledging women who have an impact and leave a legacy in industries where there is such a gender imbalance. "I'm honored and appreciate this recognition and award. I want to thank Protiviti leadership for their continued support and commitment to innovation and the importance of the broader inclusion agenda. I see this award as a symbol of my long-standing career in financial services, my passion for technology and consulting my enthusiasm for change and innovation, and my commitment to the advancement of girls in STEM and women in technology. While I have seen progress over the years, I look forward to the time when highlighting leadership and achievement by gender is no longer necessary."
Bozella is most proud of seeing women she has worked with and mentored over the years progressing in their own careers – being promoted to senior positions, taking technology leadership roles, and being strong mentors to other women. "Being able to say that I have had a positive impact and a hand in furthering other women in their careers is a privilege."
"After graduating as an engineer, I have spent my entire career in technology roles – predominantly within financial services – both in industry and in consulting. The challenges I faced are similar to the challenges many women (and many diverse groups) face – as it relates to both conscious and unconscious biases. I have seen improvement over my tenure in the business, but we're not where we need to be yet. As leaders in organizations, we have to continue to be aware and sensitive to biases – and call it out and push for change."
As more women continue to have leadership positions in technology across the industry she believes that being a peer on the other side of the table and bringing a diverse consulting team to help clients is incredibly valuable, appreciated, and ‑ more often now ‑ demanded. She notes, "Continuing to press the importance of diversity is not just equitable – it's good for business and shareholders."
Q&A: What would you say is the best advice (consulting or otherwise) you've ever received?
"I have had the opportunity to work for both female and male leaders who had an influence on my management and leadership style. For women earlier in their career, I would give them the same counsel I received: stay relevant; know your domain; be an expert; lift your head up; be present and aware of what is going on around you; take thoughtful career risks; ask for support/counsel when you need it, and be true to yourself and your style. For senior women in business, we all have a responsibility. When the opportunity arises to help others and be an advocate for someone who is underrepresented – be a leader and be that advocate."
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