To continue our Women’s History Month celebrations, we’re sitting down with Supriya Sharma, Marketing Operations Manager at Openprovider to talk about her journey in the domain industry and get her view on how to accelerate action around gender equality.
What inspired you to pursue a career in the domain industry, and what has your journey been like so far?
The domain industry isn’t just about buying and selling names; it’s the foundation of every online identity, every business, and every brand. That’s what makes it exciting. I’ve always been drawn to industries where strategy and execution make a real difference, and here, I get to work on things that directly impact businesses worldwide.
My journey so far has been about learning, growing, and making an impact. In this industry, no two days are the same. There’s a constant push to innovate, to think ahead, and to find smarter ways to serve our customers. I’ve learned that success here comes from being proactive, understanding the landscape, adapting to change, and always looking for ways to add value.
The domains industry is traditionally male-dominated. Has this posed any challenges for you, and how have you navigated them?
I wouldn’t say I’ve faced direct challenges because of my gender, at least not within Openprovider, where the focus has always been on expertise and contribution rather than labels. But I do recognize that the broader tech and domain space has historically been male-dominated.
What has worked for me is knowing my worth and making sure my voice is heard. Confidence comes from expertise. When you know your space, understand the business, and bring results, people listen. I’ve also learned that the right environment makes all the difference. Surrounding yourself with the right team, working with people who respect and value your input, and knowing when to stand your ground are all key to thriving in any industry.
The IWD 2025 theme is ‘Accelerate Action.’ In your opinion, what key actions are needed to achieve gender equality in the industry?
Equality in the industry doesn’t happen through words alone; it happens through action.
The most important step is recognizing talent early and giving people the right opportunities based on their skills, not outdated perceptions. Women should never feel like they have to work twice as hard just to prove they belong. When organizations actively create space for women in leadership, mentorship, and decision-making, real progress happens.
Another important step is visibility. The more we highlight women excelling in this space, the more we challenge assumptions and encourage others to step in with confidence. Sometimes, all it takes is seeing someone else succeed to realize that you can too.
What advice would you give to women looking to enter or advance in the domains industry?
The best advice I can give is to own your expertise and make sure people see it. Knowledge is your greatest asset, and when you understand the industry inside and out, your confidence grows naturally. Speak up, share your insights, and don’t hesitate to take the lead on projects. The more you put yourself out there, the more you’ll be recognized for your contributions.
It’s also important to build strong relationships. Success isn’t just about what you know; it’s about who you collaborate with and learn from. Find mentors, connect with people who challenge and inspire you, and surround yourself with those who push you forward. And most importantly, never let self-doubt hold you back. Every expert started somewhere, and the only way to grow is by stepping up and taking on challenges.
How can organizations and industry leaders support and empower women to drive faster progress toward gender equality?
The most impactful thing organizations can do is ensure that hiring, promotions, and leadership opportunities are based purely on ability and potential. Too often, there’s an unconscious bias that assumes leadership roles naturally belong to certain groups, but when businesses make a conscious effort to break that pattern, it benefits everyone. A diverse leadership team brings better ideas, stronger decisions, and a more inclusive industry overall.
Beyond hiring, organizations need to foster an environment where every voice is valued. Having a seat at the table isn’t enough – women need to be heard, supported, and given the space to lead. That requires a culture where contributions are recognized, where mentorship is prioritized, and where women feel empowered to grow without hesitation.
What women have inspired you in your personal and professional life?
I’ve always been inspired by women who step up, take charge, and make things happen without waiting for permission. Whether in tech, business, or everyday life, the people who stand out to me are the ones who don’t let challenges slow them down. They find solutions, take risks, and create their own paths.
Being a woman in this industry isn’t about proving anything. It’s about doing great work, making an impact, and bringing real value to the table. The best way to create change is by leading through example, and when more women step up and own their place in this space, the industry as a whole becomes stronger.
You can find out more about life and current opportunities at Openprovider here.
