CASE STUDY

Oracle identified a persistent challenge within its sales organisation: while many women were performing strongly in their roles, they weren’t progressing at the same rate as their peers. A lack of visibility, informal networks, and structured development pathways limited their access to senior leaders and growth opportunities. Oracle wanted to take targeted action to accelerate women’s progression and reinforce its global equity strategy.

Oracle launched the OWL (Oracle Women in Leadership) Sponsorship Program in collaboration with Cultivate. The 14-module journey was delivered via Cultivate’s digital platform and supported by curated sponsor-sponsee matching, group sessions, and practical reflection tools. The program focused on elevating women’s confidence, voice, and internal presence, while equipping sponsors to step up as active champions of inclusion and progression.

The program provided a clear structure and language to build powerful sponsorship relationships across the business. Sponsors became visible, intentional advocates; sponsees became more confident, proactive, and seen. This shift reshaped how talent was recognised and supported across Oracle’s ANZ sales teams, unlocking leadership potential, building trust, and creating lasting cultural impact.

Participants described the program as “transformational.” Sponsees appreciated being seen beyond their current roles and gaining insight into strategic decision-making. Sponsors valued the opportunity to reflect on their own influence and leadership legacy. The program sparked open conversations about ambition, opportunity, and impact, laying the foundation for long-term change.