Women in gaming: Gender diversity brings different views and knowledge to the table
In the second of a three-part women in gaming series, Carmen Arcones Olaya, director of systems and multichannel product, the R. Franco Group, urges firms to provide more flexibility so more women can take up leadership roles
It was about six years ago that the opportunity of joining the industry presented itself. On account of my previous experience in tech, I was selected by R. Franco to assist in the digital transformation of the company, and to manage the necessary changes that would arise as a result of that transition.
The position offered me a fantastic opportunity to gain a much deeper insight into both the company and the industry. However, many others are not as fortunate in having their potential realised. As things currently stand, women represent 60% of Spanish university graduates while making up 45% of the labour market. However, in terms of management, this percentage drops very significantly to approximately 10%.
Despite being more than qualified, most women continue to remain in the middle management positions. In a business world that is designed by men, and therefore easier to navigate for men, it can be a remarkable challenge for women to aim for, and reach, the upper echelons.
Patriarchal patterns inherently bring with them a difficulty in balancing both family and work. The development of women is curtailed, not least because the lower visibility of women forces an unfair concentration on work and a disparity in the accessibility of cultivating professional relationships.
Extensive research does confirm that companies produce greater results in instances where women take up more relevant roles. We represent approximately half of the labour market so logic dictates that the pool of talent should not go to waste.
Shared leadership
The key here is diversity because when you have mixed teams there will be different views, and those different views are what helps to create greater opportunities for all. We need to promote the participation of women in the decision-making processes and work towards shared leadership and teamwork.
In my opinion, a significant degree of flexibility should be introduced into what are otherwise longstanding and anachronistic frameworks that were tailored to men, by men. By challenging archaic methodologies, companies can operate with a far more effective merits and results system.
The outcome of this shift would undoubtedly be the harnessing of motivation and the subsequent rewards of applying emotional intelligence. Companies have an organisational structure that is forged from a patriarchal culture, which dates back to its design. The difficulties in creating a balance between family and work – and given that maternity coincides with age; a time at which many women reach their professional prime – leaves many promotions open to only men.
While I understand the challenges that are faced in such situations, I’m fortunate enough to have not had this play out for me at Recreativos Franco, a company at which I feel has recognised and supported me every step of the way. The expertise I demonstrate is always respected and I always feel that my opinions are heard.
My entire career to date has been spent working in the IT sector and now, having transferred to the area of gaming, I can say that it has not always been easy. But our role is very important, not least because we are qualified, organised, reliable, capable, results-oriented, and focused on processes and methods. These are all essential characteristics for a company that values and strives for innovation.
When I think about what inspires me, a lot of it is focused on the need to do things the right way. I am very critical of myself, yet I am moved by the responsibility and commitment I undertake when accepting challenges. With perseverance and courage, you will always achieve your goals and, if you enjoy learning and contributing to any situation, the challenges are there to be overcome and relished!
Carmen Arcones Olaya is director of systems and multichannel product at R. Franco and has been key to the company’s digital transformation. With a career in tech spanning close to 30 years, she has served across a range of tier one IT firms, including Accenture and Indra.