English US
The tech industry has expanded by a significant 79% in the last 30 years, and according to recent studies, women account for only 25% of that expansion (cio.com). While this underrepresentation serves as a marker for how far we are from reaching equality in the workplace, it’s also costing companies. Research consistently shows that companies with a higher percentage of women in executive roles have above-average profits (weforum.org)
At KUDO, diversity is in our DNA. We are proud to celebrate the women in our leadership team in honor of Women’s History Month. This week, we sat down (digitally) to talk to Caroline Paranikas, General Cousel at KUDO, about her career thus far, her experience working at KUDO, and what she envisions for a language barrier-free future.
Hometown: Paris by birth, Chicago by adoption 20 years ago
Languages spoken: French, English, Spanish & very basic Greek
Position at KUDO: General Counsel
Hobbies/ surprising facts: Swimming, Hiking, Traveling, Born on Pi Day
How and when did you get into the language/tech world?
By chance, a year ago, when I applied to KUDO! I had been exposed to the investment side of the tech world in my prior professional experiences.
What challenges have you come up against as a woman in tech?
I see fantastic opportunities more than challenges: an opportunity to challenge the status quo, offer a different viewpoint, launch new initiatives, and attract diversified talent to the industry.
What is one of the most valuable lessons you’ve learned in your professional career thus far?
I have learned so many valuable lessons in my career; it’s hard to pick one! I would say, “Never stop learning” – I am curious and an avid learner. I love being part of a dynamic team where I can be challenged with a real opportunity to contribute and grow, personally and professionally. And it has to be a fun ride too. When fatigue and boredom take over, it may be time to switch gears. It’s the first job I have where I report to a non-attorney; this has been a very refreshing experience!
How is working for a global remote company like KUDO different from your previous work experiences?
With a French dad, a Serbian mom, a Greek husband, and American kids, global is in my DNA! I have worked in three different countries so far, and my previous job was at a global public company, but this is the first time I feel like I live and breathe being global every day. In my role, I talk to team members and customers located in many different countries daily, and I get to use my French often, which is pretty amazing. I have never been that remote in a job before, but I feel very close and connected to the team. I find our Kudoers extremely accessible and responsive; I have rarely felt this sense of tight community in a job before.
What does a language barrier-free future look like to you?
It’s a future that unlocks all communication hurdles and brings peace and hope. In this world of conflicts and pandemics, we can all get behind this core mission of KUDO that attracted me to the company in the first place.
What is KUDO?
Are you ready to have more accessible and inclusive meetings and events? Join a live demo, and learn how to expand your reach globally, ensuring you have the power to understand and be understood.
