Linda Patterson

Northern EMEA marketing director at Avnet

Career history: Marketing director UK at Avnet; marketing manager for IBM at Avnet

Measure of influence: Responsible for a team of 20 marketers across the UK, Ireland and Benelux.

Activities to advance women in tech: Mentors two women in the channel outside of Avnet.

What is your advice to women and girls thinking about a career in the channel?

Forget any preconceptions that the channel is a male-dominated, techie industry. IT is an innovative, dynamic, exciting and forever-changing business with many diverse and creative roles that offer very rewarding opportunities for all.