Making Space: Sylvia LePoidevin on Embracing the Power of Being Different

In many industries, but especially in tech, carving out space for yourself as a woman is both an opportunity and a test of resilience. Getting the proverbial “seat at the table” was—and still can be—a challenge. I learned to fight for a seat when needed and always be ready to earn it. Imposter syndrome is real, and confidence in yourself is so important. I’m not an engineer, but I understand technology, I’m skilled at positioning, and I know what it takes to reach the audiences that matter.

That confidence wasn’t innate; it was built over time, in boardrooms and brainstorms, by doing the work and making space for myself and others. That’s why I’m so inspired by the women we work with every day. For part two of our Women’s History Month blog series, I’m sharing insights from Sylvia LePoidevin, CMO of Kandji, whose leadership journey is marked by authenticity, resilience, and a deep commitment to lifting others up. She shares how being an outsider became her strength, what it means to be a “dropped-in” leader, and why visibility is key to inspiring the next generation of women in tech.

What inspired you to pursue a career in tech?
Tech wasn’t my original plan—I sort of fell into it. I got recruited to join a startup as employee #12 and the first marketing hire at FloQast, which is now worth over $1.6 billion and eyeing an IPO. That experience opened my eyes to what’s possible in tech. It’s an industry where credentials matter less than common sense, a willingness to roll up your sleeves, and the ability to build.

Today I’m the CMO of Kandji, where I started as employee #4. Kandji is now valued at $850 million. Tech forces you to constantly reinvent yourself because it’s always changing. There’s never a dull moment. It’s incredibly fulfilling to build something from scratch and see it take off.

What challenges have you faced as a woman in tech, and how have you navigated them?
I’ve been the only woman in the room many times—from boardrooms to executive teams. Early on, I felt the pressure to prove I belonged, sometimes by working twice as hard, sometimes by trying to fit in.

What I’ve learned is that being an outsider can be a strength. Instead of trying to blend in, I leaned into what made me different. That shift in perspective made a big difference. It helped me stand out and lead more confidently.

What is the most valuable lesson or piece of advice you’ve received from a female mentor, and how did it impact your personal life and career?

A mentor early on taught me what it means to be a “dropped-in” leader—someone who is fully present and self-aware.

She showed me that understanding myself is the key to understanding others. The more I became aware of my own emotions, experiences, and reactions, the more I could lead with clarity, empathy, and confidence.

Tech moves fast. Leadership in high-growth environments often means balancing intensity with perspective. That lesson helped me build stronger relationships, lead through change, and trust my instincts even in uncertain moments.

How do you hope to inspire the next generation of women in your industry?
I went to a women’s speaking event recently, and one of the speakers said something that stuck with me: “She can’t be you if she can’t see you.”

In order to inspire others, you have to put yourself out there. Speak up. Share your stories. Be visible. The more we show up and own our space, the more we open doors for the women coming after us.

How do you foster inclusivity and empowerment within your organization?
Inclusivity isn’t just about who’s in the room. It’s about who feels empowered to speak, lead, and shape the direction of the company.

I focus on hiring for character and potential, not pedigree. Skills can be learned, but integrity, drive, and the way someone approaches challenges matter even more.

When I mentor people early in their careers, I encourage them to share both their accomplishments and challenges in the interview process. I’m not just hiring an employee—I’m hiring a whole person. My goal is to understand my team’s goals and support them however I can.

Continuing the Conversation

Celebrating leaders like Sylvia is a reminder of the progress being made and the work still ahead. When we amplify the voices of women in tech, we encourage the next generation to lead with confidence, speak with clarity, and build their own paths. At Offleash, we’re proud to keep these stories at the forefront. Stay tuned for more in our series as we continue to spotlight the leaders shaping the future of our industry.