Sue Bywater-Read, Vyta’s Strategic Relationship Director, took part in an inspirational panel with other ITAD professionals to address an impressive gathering of industry experts at the IT asset disposition (ITAD) sector’s most prestigious annual conference, the ITAD Summit, in Miami, Florida, on July 23, 2024.
As part of the “Tech Trailblazers: Women Pioneering Change in IT Asset Disposition” panel at the world’s largest ITAD event, Sue was invited to share her journey from part-time receptionist and single mum to industry leader, emphasising the importance of mentorship, collaboration, and diversity.
Sue was joined on the panel by Miranda Monohan, Global Director of Technology Partners at Dynamic Lifecycle Innovations; Diamond McKenna, CEO of Diamond Assets (USA); Laura Schmidt, Vice President at Quotient X Solutions (USA); and Charlene Lujon, Chief Technology Ambassador at METech (USA).
Sue joined Vyta as Strategic Relationship Director, in July 2023, bringing with her over two decades of experience in the IT industry.
Vyta, a UK-based company with a truly global reach, is a market leader in secure, compliant, and sustainable IT asset disposition (ITAD) and IT lifecycle management (ITALM) – the process of collecting, refurbishing and reselling redundant IT equipment. The company has sites in England, Northern Ireland, the Republic of Ireland, and customers in more than 50 countries worldwide.
Reflecting on the underrepresentation of women in ITAD, Sue said:
“The IT industry has long been male-dominated, influenced by societal norms. But persistence, education, and confidence are key to overcoming these challenges. I had great mentors, both male and female, who really believed in me and gave me the confidence to, push boundaries.
“I started almost 25 years ago in ITAD as a receptionist and progressed through various roles, including reception, HR administrator, executive to business development manager, sales team leader, sales manager, and IT asset manager, on my path to becoming strategic relationship director.
“Each step was a learning curve. But my young family and being a single mum really inspired me and encouraged me to keep going and to strive for success. I went back to university after having my children and completed a postgraduate degree in CIM (Chartered Institute of Marketing) in 2005, covering key areas such as operational management, financial management, and reflective management.
“Early in my career, I sometimes struggled to feel valued or respected. By consistently proving my expertise and staying resilient, I was able to break through those barriers and demonstrate that women have a vital role to play in this industry.”
Sue’s approach to mentorship at Vyta is clearly shaped by her own personal journey. She said:
“Active listening and creating a secure base for individuals to challenge themselves are crucial. I share my experiences and provide tools which I believe can guide my colleagues and allow them to develop and thrive.”
She added, “Mentorship is about helping others overcome self-doubt and build confidence. I spend time listening, engaging, and helping them hear their own voices. It’s about believing in them so they can believe in themselves.”
On the importance of partnerships, Sue emphasised:
“Relationships, integrity, trust, and rapport are key to building strong partnerships. Collaboration and a specific code of conduct help us strategize and grow together, identifying opportunities and driving success.”
Sue’s message to women in ITAD, and indeed other industries, is clear: “Believe, and it will happen! Don’t be shy to ask questions. Seek education, find positive mentors, and challenge yourself. There will be tough times, but persistence pays off. Find role models, talk to people, and take advice. You will succeed.”
Sue Bywater-Read is based in her native Essex and became a qualified psychotherapy counsellor in 2018 allowing her to support charities such as Mid and North Essex Mind in her spare time.
You can read Sue’s full Member Profile here.
