In a field dominated by men, many women have been excelling in their various roles. AirtelTigo, the leading telecommunications company, recognizes and values the contributions of women to their business. In a move to embrace equity, the company is highlighting some women whose impact on the organization has been significant.
We discover Ethel Anamoo’s journey to AirtelTigo, her significant contributions to the company, the impact of mentorship on her professional growth, and her advocacy for women’s advancement.
Background
The first of three children, Ms. Ethel Anamoo was born in the cool coastal area of Keta and later moved to 37 Military Hospital barracks with her parents where she spent her formative years.
Education
Ethel attended Keta Secondary and Labone Secondary Schools for her O’levels & A Level respectively, reading business subjects. She holds a Bachelor of Commerce & Diploma in Education from University of Cape Coast, Post graduate Certificate & Diploma in Communications Management from Coventry University UK. Mini MBA & Advanced Telecom Strategy- Informa Telecoms Academy, Project Management Certificate, APM Group & Marketing Certificate from GIMPA.
Career
Her career spans over 23 years in the telecommunications industry. Ethel started her career as an Assistant Manager for Customer Experience at the then Ghana Telecom now Vodafone and rising through the ranks to the position of Global Enterprise Country Manager & Head of Corporate Sales before assuming her role as the Chief Business Officer at AirtelTigo.
In her current role, she leads an integrated team comprising Enterprise Sales, Products Development & Marketing, Commercial Management & Analytics in delivering Commercial Plans for all Enterprise segments.
- How did you end up in your role as a Chief Business officer?
After serving as the Head of Corporate Sales at Vodafone Business Solutions in Ghana, I was approached by an international recruiter who was searching for a candidate to fill a vacant position. Following four rounds of interviews, I was eventually chosen for the role.
- What do you think helped you get so far in your career?
Focusing on the task at hand, pursuing excellence, being receptive to new knowledge, and confronting difficulties and obstacles head-on by overcoming them.
- Has mentorship played a role in your career?
Mentorship played a key role in my career growth, and I was fortunate to have been mentored by women in senior leadership positions who became my role models. I believe that it’s important for women to lift each other up and encourage each other in our career journeys.
- What do you see as the biggest barrier to embracing equity of women in the economy, especially in Technology/STEM (Science, Technology. Engineering. Mathematics) and what more needs to be done?
One of the barriers for women in STEM fields is gender stereotyping, where these fields are often seen as masculine and reserved for men. Additionally, there are fewer female role models to inspire interest in these fields. To address this, we need to start promoting STEM education from an early age, positioning it as problem-solving through innovative and creative methods. This will help narrow the gender pay gap, create a diverse and talented STEM workforce, enhance women’s economic security, and prevent biases in STEM fields and the products and services we produce for consumers.
- What is the most important message you want to send to young women thinking about their careers?
Self-belief is crucial – believe that you have the potential to climb the corporate ladder just like anyone else. Work hard and aim for excellence. Don’t hesitate to pursue new opportunities. Seek guidance from mentors to support you on your journey.
- On the backdrop of 2023’s International Women’s Day theme “Embrace Equity”, do you think society is embracing equity? In your line of work, is equity something we are inching closer to?
I believe that there is still room for improvement when it comes to society embracing equity. The goal of equity is to remove systemic and structural barriers that hinder people from succeeding. In my line of work, we strive for equity and make efforts to give women equal opportunities, but there is still room for improvement.
- At your level, what actions do you take towards gender equality in your workplace?
I make sure that there is equal opportunity for everyone, particularly women, when it comes to recruitment and placement in my department. Additionally, I ensure that all employees have access to the necessary resources to successfully complete any task assigned to them.
- What advice will you give women struggling in a male-dominated industry?
Continuous self-improvement is key, and it’s important not to engage in unhealthy competition. Being focused, open to learning, and embracing adversity are important traits for success.
- What positive changes have you seen regarding women in the workplace since you started your career?
In recent years, there has been more equity in the workplace, including greater access to resources and opportunities for women. However, there is still room for improvement.
- What three values govern the way you live your life?
Integrity, Excellence and Godliness
The AirtelTigo International Women’s Day Profiling campaign spans over a month and is aimed at celebrating women in their respective workplaces. The campaign is designed to recognize and highlight the significant contributions made by women to the growth and success of the company. Through this campaign, AirtelTigo aims to promote gender equity and encourage women to strive for excellence in their careers. Overall, the campaign seeks to promote gender diversity and inclusivity in the workplace.
