The 2023 Women Leaders in Consulting: Ammara Masood

Ammara Masood has a career spanning three decades and rich experience across continents in global markets in IT Strategy, Consulting and Digitally Transformative Solution Implementations for Clients in Banking & Finance; Telecom and High-Tech Sectors. Since the last 13 years, Ammara is the CEO of NdcTech, one of the fastest-growing consulting companies in the world, and it is under her leadership, the organization was recently acquired by Systems Limited. Ammara Masood is the winner of the ''Woman in Technology'' award at the Banking Tech Awards 2021 and was featured as one of the 100 Best performing CEOs by CEO Club Pakistan in 2018. She is also an active member of the board of several prestigious organizations including Pakistan Software Houses Association (P@sha), Habib University, Central Depository Company(CDC), DataCheck, Pakistan Single Window (PSW) and National Export Development Board (NEDB).

Born in 1965 in Pakistan, Ammara Masood completed her master's in Business Administration (Information Sciences) from California State University, San Bernardino and an Executive Diploma in Strategic Uses of Information Sciences from Stanford University Graduate School of Business.

What do you consider your greatest personal or professional achievement?

I would consider being recognized and awarded by peers and analyst firms in the IT industry at a global level to be one of the greatest personal as well as professional achievements. One of these recognitions was being named the "Woman in Technology" at the Banking Tech Awards 2021 by Fintech Futures in London. To be awarded this prestigious title amongst other capable women from leading banks globally was an honor for me. This recognition was not just a validation of my hard work and dedication, but also a testament to the impact that I have had on the industry and the value that I have created for others. The pride I felt for representing NdcTech and all the women in this industry, that is largely dominated by men, as well as for creating a mark of my country on an international platform was compared to none. This was an incredibly humbling experience, and one that has inspired me to continue pushing myself to achieve even greater things in the future.

The journey toward achieving this milestone was not an easy one. It required years of hard work, commitment and perseverance, as well as a willingness to take risks and embrace new challenges. The first thing I am always thankful for when being recognized for similar titles and awards is the efforts and support of my team. I owe all my achievements and honors to the peers I have worked with over the years.

What's the best advice—consulting or otherwise—you've ever received?

One of the greatest pieces of advice that has helped me get through the various phases of life and move closer to achieving my goals is to "Never give up, always keep going." This advice has been a guiding principle for me throughout my life, and it has helped me to push through difficult times, overcome obstacles, and achieve success in both my personal and professional life. The key to the power of this advice is that it speaks to the importance of resilience and persistence in the face of adversity. It reminds us that success is not always easy or immediate and that it often requires a willingness to persevere through difficult times and to keep pushing forward, even when things seem insurmountable. I have always been able to draw strength and inspiration from this simple yet powerful piece of advice. What advice would you give to a female consultant just beginning her career?

One piece of advice I give to women entering this industry is to always be confident in presenting your perspective. As a female consultant, it is crucial to recognize the unique value and ideas you bring to the table. Your voice and perspective matter, and it's important to trust in your knowledge and expertise.

In a field that may be predominantly male-dominated, it can be easy to feel hesitant or uncertain about sharing your insights. However, remember that diversity of thought is a powerful asset in any consulting team. Your fresh perspectives, different experiences and unique problem-solving approaches can contribute to innovative and well-rounded solutions.

What does this recognition mean to you?

Receiving this recognition for Women Leaders in Consulting means a great deal to me. It is a validation of all the hard work, dedication, and passion that I have put into my role as a CEO and most importantly as a female in this highly male-dominated industry. It provides a chance to nurture and inspire all those women in our country who possess the same drive as me to make an impact in the global banking tech industry. I will utilize this recognition to fuel the passion of women who look up to me and will drive them to keep pushing despite the obstacles and challenges of society, because that is what I have experienced as well to be where I am today. I have always been a strong believer in creating an equal-opportunity workplace and will keep investing in empowerment initiatives to make this happen in the industry.