At Vertonet Inspiration Day 2025, we're exploring the future of leadership and the skills shaping tomorrow’s tech sector. In our new Inspiration series, we speak with extraordinary women leaders in tech. Our first conversation is with Arnheiður Guðmundsdóttir, CEO of Ský, founder of UTmessan, and winner of the Vertonet Incentive Award in 2024.
In this interview, Arnheiður shares her journey, insights on leadership, and thoughts on the future of tech. What challenges has she faced? How has leadership changed over the years? And what advice does she have for future generations of women in tech?
Meet Arnheiður Guðmundsdóttir
Arnheiður Guðmundsdóttir has nearly 40 years of experience in tech. As the CEO of Ský – The Icelandic Computer Society, and the driving force behind UTmessan, she is recognized as a great role model, actively contributing to increasing the visibility of women and non-binaries in information technology through UTmessan and other events.
You have been in the tech industry for a long time. How did your journey in tech begin?
I started studying computer science in Denmark in the mid-1980s. At the time, the field wasn’t as structured as it is today, and many Icelandic students chose to study abroad because there were limited options in Iceland.
When computer science programs first launched at Háskóli Íslands, something remarkable happened: a relatively large group of women enrolled. At Ský, we have tracked every computer science graduate in Iceland, and I’ve always found it fascinating that in those early years, more women entered the field than one might expect.
After completing my studies, I started working in IT at Landspítali’s computer department, where around 30% of the workforce were women. Later, when I moved to Skýrr (now Advania), the percentage was even higher—about 40% women.
How has leadership in tech evolved since you started, and where do you think it's headed in the coming years?
Early on, leadership was about micromanagement—being told exactly what to do. Over time, it shifted toward recognizing individual strengths.
Now, leadership is more about asking: “What are you good at? What can you contribute with?” rather than forcing people into predefined roles.
"Looking ahead, leadership will continue to move toward trust, empowerment, and collaboration, rather than rigid hierarchies."
What qualities define great leadership today?
Trust and flexibility. The best leaders empower their teams rather than micromanage them. Also, diverse teams produce the best results.
I love mixing different people together because it brings more perspectives and better solutions.
"That’s the future of leadership—diversity and collaboration."
What motivated you to take on leadership roles such as leading UTmessan and Ský?
A long time ago, I realized that I could do anything I set my mind to. I had great mentors who encouraged me, and that gave me the confidence to take on leadership roles.
My motivation has always been to do something I love, something that excites me. It’s not about the pay—it’s about doing work that’s meaningful, using my talents, and shaping my own path.
" If something isn’t fun, it’s not worth doing."
What is the most important part of your job today?
Doing what I enjoy and what I’m good at. That’s what keeps me motivated every day.
What values drive you as a leader?
My core value is making sure people are happy—whether that’s employees, event attendees, or the broader tech community. If people leave an event feeling inspired and satisfied, then I know we’ve done our job well. Since my name is closely tied to Ský, everything I do reflects back on me. That’s why I put my heart into everything.
Who has shaped your leadership style or served as a role model for you?
I grew up with a single mother who had to do everything herself, despite people telling her she couldn’t. That shaped me. I learned early on that if you want to do something, you can. I tell my own children the same thing—if you want a job, apply. If you don’t know something, you can learn. And above all, work should be fun. If I ever wake up bored with my job, I’ll know it’s time for a change.
What advice would you give to young women aspiring to lead in tech?
Stop overthinking! Just go for it!
Don’t waste time wondering if you belong—if you have the same skills and background as others, you have just as much right to be there.
"Believe in yourself."
If you could give one piece of advice to your younger self, what would it be?
Have more confidence!
Early in my career, someone told me: “You don’t even realize what you’re capable of.” I wish I had recognized that sooner. Now, I don’t worry about what others think—I focus on what I want to do.
What’s next for leadership in tech?
AI and a more project-oriented approach will reshape leadership structures. But one thing will remain: teamwork.
"The future belongs to diverse teams that bring different perspectives to the table. Leadership will become more about guidance and empowerment rather than control and instruction."
Five leadership lessons from Arnheiður
Trust your team – Micromanagement stifles creativity. Instead, empower people and let them take ownership of their work.
Diversity creates innovation – The strongest teams are built on different perspectives, experiences, and skills.
Believe in yourself – Don’t overthink things. If you want to do something, just go for it.
Leadership is about empowerment – Great leaders don’t just give orders; they inspire, support, and help people grow.
Enjoy the journey – Work should be meaningful and fun. If you wake up dreading your job, it’s time for a change.
Final thoughts
As a winner of the Vertonet Incentive Award 2023, Arnheiður continues to inspire and advocate for greater diversity in IT. Her insights remind us that true leadership is not about power—it’s about trust, inclusion, and creating an environment where everyone can thrive.
Her message is clear:
"Stop overthinking, believe in your abilities, and embrace the opportunities ahead."
This interview is part of Vertonet’s Inspiration series leading up to Vertonet Inspiration Day 2025 – our annual conference celebrating leadership, inclusion, and innovation in tech.
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