Helena Herrero, the president of HP for Southern Europe, the Middle East, and Africa, shared her insights on the role of technology in empowering women and driving sustainability during a recent interview. According to Gulf Business, she said that technology has always been an enabler for personal and professional growth, stating, “I think technology has always been an enabler and a tool to empower people.” Herrero believes that in today’s world, leveraging talent and skills is critical, as knowledge is what differentiates societies, countries, and companies.

Herrero noted that women have a significant role in the technology sector, which is often perceived as a male-dominated field. She expressed her belief that women can bring a unique human touch to artificial intelligence and data management. According to her, it is essential for women to engage actively in these discussions, asking the right questions to harness the potential of technology effectively.

HP, as stated by Herrero, integrates diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) into its core values. She mentioned that since its founding in 1939, HP has focused on believing in the potential of people. The company aims to build a diverse workforce that reflects society, which is crucial for developing AI and algorithms that cater to diverse needs. To achieve this, HP measures diversity, provides training, and emphasizes mentoring to support individuals in reaching leadership roles.

As a leader, Herrero ensures alignment within her team by fostering an understanding of the company’s broader vision and the significance of their contributions. She believes that when employees grasp the reasons behind their tasks, they are more likely to innovate and feel empowered. “If people understand the reason behind their work, they will bring innovation,” she explained.

Discussing the digital transformation in the Middle East, Herrero highlighted the region’s ambition for the future, particularly in countries like Saudi Arabia and the UAE, which are diversifying their economies with technology as a key driver. She pointed to the 2030 plans that illustrate a commitment to transformation, stating that Saudi Arabia’s new manufacturing site aims not only to enhance physical infrastructure but also to foster an ecosystem for research and development.

HP’s strategy for the coming years is centered on using technology to empower individuals and address various customer needs. Herrero emphasized the importance of focusing on the future of work through HP’s wide range of products, including devices and printing solutions powered by AI.

Sustainability is also a foundational element of HP’s mission, with Herrero explaining that the company has long been committed to climate action. HP aims for net-zero greenhouse gas emissions across its value chain by 2040, focusing on reducing emissions, promoting circularity, and protecting forests. She revealed that in 2023, HP utilized 34,400 tonnes of post-consumer recycled plastic, representing 18.1% of its overall plastic use.

Through various strategic initiatives, including supply chain decarbonization and energy efficiency, HP is dedicated to minimizing its environmental impact while driving innovation. Herrero concluded by stating that sustainability is not merely a goal for HP; it is an integral part of how the company operates, emphasizing the importance of creating a positive impact on the planet while delivering value to customers.