Check out this pic! Google's lineup of women execs proves that pocket protectors are no longer emblematic of this industry. Overseeing everything from business operations to online sales and product management, these dynamic women are company and community leaders.
With one of the best-educated work forces in the world, the company places a high value on continuous learning. Employees regularly enjoy visits from outside speakers; Eve Ensler, Sally Ride, Gloria Steinem, Jane Fonda, Diane von Furstenberg, and most of the 2008 presidential hopefuls have all dropped by Google offices. In fact, Google credits much of its success in creating innovative technologies with its emphasis on diversity of perspective, cultures and ideas in the workplace. And then there are the perks — everything from gourmet meals, shuttles, and massages to annual ski trips. Good news for moms-to-be: They offer a generous maternity leave. Check out the photo shoot at the Google headquarters.
The New York Times once called Megan Smith one of the "women who could change the face of technology." True to prophecy, the MIT Media Lab grad has left her mark on Silicon Valley, using her mechanical expertise and passion for start-ups to build companies (everything from social network PlanetOut to mobile devices). Now, as Google's vice president of new business development, Megan overseas its new-ventures partnerships, explorations, and licensing, and jointly champions the company's unique start-up culture. Now raising two boys with partner Kara Swisher, Megan says, "I'm a fan of choosing steep learning curves, big challenges, and focusing on things that both interest you and help others."
Sukhinder Singh Cassidy, Google's vice president of Asia-Pacific & Latin America operations, is an Internet veteran and entrepreneur (including cofounding Yodlee in 1999, a leading online player in financial services). At Google, Sukhinder has led the company's entrance into the world's most vital developing markets over the last three years, building operations in more than 18 different countries, from Beijing and Bombay to Buenos Aires. Sukhinder is not the only Cassidy leaving her mark on the globe: in her first eight months, daughter Kenya accompanied Mom around the world, racking up more than 60,000 frequent-flier miles.