Åse Rosenqvist, Head of Operations at Dstny, is a leader driven by efficiency, innovation, and a strong focus on people. With a background in operations management across different industries, she found her way into tech by taking on a leadership challenge at Telia, one that no one else dared to accept. Her ability to lead change, streamline processes and create smarter workflows has made her a key player at Dstny.
Beyond work, Åse is a passionate outdoor enthusiast, enjoying running, skiing and interior design. She brings warmth, creativity and humor to everything she does.
In this interview, Åse shares her thoughts on women in tech, leadership and diversity, as well as her vision for the future of the industry.
I Asked my friend how she would describe me in 3 words and got the following, warm, creative, funny, and strong! (it turned out to be 4!)
I enjoy being outdoors, running or skiing in the winter. I am also interested in interior and home design and spending time with my children and friends.
That I sang in a rock/punk band when I was young.
Morning coffee, think that’s says it all!
In some way, I have always gravitated towards the operational side of all the industries I have been in. I am interested in process flows, whether it is people or products and finding ways to make things simpler and smarter. I ended up in this industry by chance, Telia contacted me because they were looking for a "fearless leader" who could drive and lead change and efficiency improvements in a team that no leader at Telia was interested in! After 15 years at my former employer, Scandinavia Airlines and as a manager of over 80 shift workers (only men), I thought "how hard can it be" and accepted the challenge, which I have never regretted.
It's fun to be in a company that is at the forefront of modern technology, getting the chance to be "where it's happening". But it's the people in the company and our customers that motivate me to do my job.
The absolute most exciting part of my role is being able to help create a better Dstny Sweden, both for our customers but also for us internally.
No, I haven't experienced any significant differences in being a woman here than anywhere else. I don't think it has anything to do with Tech at all, the challenges that exist have to do with other societal issues.
Create an inclusive and healthy work culture. Dare to de-dramatize the focus on "technology" alone and look at what's in between.
There are many fantastically competent women, but to name one I would say Carin Götblad, Swedish police chief in our National Operative Department.
Unfortunately, it's still a pretty unfair world we live in, so my advice is to work a little harder, read a little more, be street smart because then you can stand up for yourself and for what you can without apologizing. Dare to take your place in the room.
To begin with, the issue should be on our strategic Dstny agenda. We are running so fast now that we forget to look up and look ahead. If we want to continue to attract employees and customers, they want to see that we are an inclusive company. There are companies and sponsors that choose to exclude companies that do not have diversity on their agenda. Let us not be that company.
Diversity benefits all industries, whether it's our industry or another, inclusion enriches. Who dares to miss that chance?
I have been enriched by strong female role models in my life, which I would need another page to tell you more about, but I associate International Women's Day with my grandmother Märtha, who worked tirelessly for women's rights and always celebrated the day.
I hope we are going against the tide of how the tragic development is going backwards within perhaps mainly large American companies. But as I mentioned earlier, culture, climate and professionalism will be a decisive factor to attract more women wanting to apply to our industry. Let us be that company!
Åse Rosenqvist’s journey is a testament to the power of leadership, resilience and innovation. Her passion for creating smarter workflows, driving change and promoting inclusivity has made a significant impact at Dstny and beyond.
From taking on leadership challenges that others hesitated to embrace, to advocating for diversity and inclusion in tech, Åse continues to inspire. Her story highlights the importance of fearless leadership, embracing opportunities and shaping a workplace culture that empowers everyone.
As we look toward the future, Åse’s insights serve as a reminder that inclusivity, innovation and strong leadership are the driving forces behind a successful and evolving tech industry.
Let’s continue to build that future - together.