Delphine Donné, Logitech’s VP & General Manager Business Group – Personal Workspace Solutions, found herself in the tech industry “purely by chance” and said has tried to simplify people’s lives driven by her passion.
“I’ve come to realise that technology offers incredible opportunities to create product solutions that enhance people’s lives, making them more productive and comfortable,” said Donné.
indianexpress.com sat with Donné, a leading innovator in personal computer peripherals and software, to understand her perspective on the shifting dynamics in the tech world. In a candid interaction, Donné shared a glimpse of her journey, challenges, and accomplishments that shaped her career in the tech industry.
Not an easy path
“My unexpected journey into the tech industry began when I relocated from Canada to the UK to work for Kensington. This led me to join Logitech in California 18 years ago, where I’ve had an incredible experience. Logitech’s inclusive culture and emphasis on individuality, open communication, and innovation have been instrumental in shaping my career,” shared Donné who began as a product manager in California and later moved to Shanghai to establish the first R&D department in China.
As the General Manager, Donné oversees global business marketing, innovation strategies, and product development for a diverse product portfolio generating around $2.5 billion in revenue annually. With teams across Europe, Asia, and the US, she advocates for a hybrid work environment, balancing office and remote work.
Donné, who was born in France, said she was passionate about technology from a young age. “I’ve always been fascinated by how things work and how they’re built.” Regardless of her passion, her path was not an easy one. “When I was younger, I often felt like an outsider in a field dominated by men. It was challenging to find role models who looked like me or shared similar experiences,” she added.
Affecting change
When asked about how she promotes diversity and inclusivity at the workplace, Donné recounted the time when she realised that “one size does not fit all”.
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“As the general manager for creativity and productivity in 2018, I encountered a challenge with the size of our products, particularly the MX vertical mouse, which, although successful, was too large for me to use comfortably due to my petite stature. This realisation prompted me to advocate for a more diverse product portfolio, considering that one size does not fit all, especially in the categories under my responsibility,” said Donné, who initiated the development of a vertical mouse tailored specifically for women.
This not only resulted in a more diverse team working on the product but also contributed to a significant increase in the representation of women in her group. According to Donné, despite the initial resistance, the project eventually led to the launch of the Logitech Lift Mouse, which went on to become one of Logitech’s best-selling products in 2023.
On women in STEM careers
Logitech, in collaboration with Ipsos India, recently conducted market research in India. The findings of the research highlighted societal biases and lack of access to resources as the main barriers for women.
“One of the key findings was the prevalence of stereotypes dictating who should pursue careers in STEM fields. It is crucial for young girls to receive encouragement from their parents, teachers, and role models, and to gain exposure to successful women in technology,” Donné said, acknowledging that the biases women face are similar across nations.
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According to the VP, by sharing their experiences women can demonstrate to young girls that they have the same opportunities as men and can have a significant impact by working in the technology sector.
When asked about the most significant challenges she has faced as a woman in tech, Donné acknowledged the persistent gender biases and stereotypes that still permeate the industry. “There have been countless times when I’ve been the only woman in the room, or when my ideas were initially dismissed or overlooked,” she admitted.
Donné said that to address the gender gap, Logitech has launched initiatives to empower and inspire young Indian women — including partnerships with educational institutions, mentorship programmes, and outreach campaigns.
When asked about her advice for young women considering a tech career, Donné’s message was one of inspiration and encouragement. “Don’t let anyone tell you that you can’t do something because of your gender,” she urged. “Believe in yourself, and surround yourself with people who support and uplift you.”
