Blockchain is no longer an experiment at the edge of finance, and it is becoming a structural part of business infrastructure. That’s the perspective we explored in our recent conversation with Clare Adelgren, EY Interim Global Blockchain Leader, as part of our Women Leading the Way series. We’ve discussed the feeling of being on the edge of technology in the enterprise, the representation of women in the emerging field, and how that representation feels across the world.

Clare’s path runs through two decades at IBM, where she worked on complex global transformations. Four years ago, she moved to EY to focus on emerging technologies, drawn by a structural change. As she explains it, blockchain challenges long-standing assumptions around trust and transparency, which has the potential to reshape payments infrastructure.

As part of our interview, she also spoke about representation: women account for roughly 27% of the workforce at leading Web3 startups, yet only about 12% of them have technical roles. Clare argues that the challenge lies less in talent and more in visibility and access. In emerging industries, career paths are still forming. That’s why there is both a gap and an opportunity here to design a more inclusive environment from the start.

As Clare has extensive experience working across Europe, Japan, and the US, we've also discussed how regional differences can affect female representation. She stated that most of the variability comes from local systems and cultures that shape women's careers. It is a big mistake to think that women are less interested in the tech field or have less talent, and it’s access and institutional support that really matter.

Commenting on hiring practices and leadership potential within her team, Clare said that she prefers to look beyond self-promotion and observe patterns instead. Who connects dots? Who anticipates risks? Who creates clarity for others? As a leader herself, she wishes to ensure that her team members' efforts translate into opportunities.

Looking ahead, her advice is direct: “Don’t wait to feel “ready.” This space is evolving too quickly for anyone to have perfect credentials.”

👉 Read the full interview with Clare Adelgren in Drofa Comms: https://womenlead.co.uk/ideas/clare-adelgren