Leading on Your Terms: Redefining Ambition, Flexibility & Impact

Tech Trajectory

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In this episode of The Tech Trajectory Podcast, host Kavita Kerwar sits down with Karis Dorrigan to explore what leadership looks like when driven by clarity, values, and life’s changing seasons.

From negotiating for flexible work to growing through career transitions and motherhood, Karis shares her journey with candour. She speaks about how to lead with both empathy and commercial focus, why inclusive product teams matter, and the value of redefining success on your own terms.

You’ll hear advice on part-time leadership, the impact of mentorship, and what businesses can do to truly support diverse teams and individuals—not just on paper, but in practice.

1. Flexibility doesn’t mean less ambition

[03:00] Karis discusses working part-time in a senior leadership role—and how she reframed flexibility as a strength, not a sacrifice.

2. Making work work, for people and life

[06:15] Teams thrive when flexible work is seen as a competitive edge. Karis shares practical actions to make part-time and remote employees feel valued.

3. Redefining leadership through motherhood

[09:00] Parenthood shifted Karis’s leadership style, grounding it in empathy, prioritisation, and purpose.

4. Navigating big career transitions

[15:00] Karis reflects on leaving high-profile roles, listening to your instincts, and designing a career that aligns with your values.

5. Leading inclusive product teams

[21:00] Inclusion starts at the strategy stage. Karis shares how she builds empathy into team culture and product decisions.

6. Mentorship and giving back

[24:00] From being mentored to mentoring others, Karis champions honest conversations, advocacy, and opening doors.

7. Advice for future leaders

[27:00] Karis closes with reflections on confidence, clarity, and what she wishes she’d known earlier in her leadership journey.

Where to find Karis Dorrigan

• LinkedIn: Karis Dorrigan

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