ThoughtWorks Managing Director Joanna Parke Named to Crain's Chicago 40 Under 40

CHICAGO, Nov. 25, 2015 /CNW/ -- Joanna Parke, Managing Director of ThoughtWorks, a global technology company headquartered in Chicago, today was named to Crain's Chicago's prestigious 40 under 40 list. Now in its 26^th year, the list spotlights 40 Chicagoans in business, government, philanthropy and the arts who have reached the top of their fields before their 40^th birthday.

As Managing Director for North America, Parke oversees operations in ThoughtWorks' largest market. Globally, ThoughtWorks has 3,500 employees spread across 34 offices in 13 countries. Parke has led a five-year diversity effort that nearly doubled the percentage of women and minorities on ThoughtWorks' North American technical staff. At one-third women, it far surpasses the industry standard.

"It is an honor to be listed amongst so many of my fellow Chicagoans. I would not be in the position to receive this distinction without the support of my family, and my incredible colleagues at ThoughtWorks," said Joanna Parke. "I am fortunate to work in an environment that fosters creativity, inclusivity, and the drive to have a positive impact on our clients and society."

"Joanna represents the very best of ThoughtWorks. Starting as a software developer, Joanna evolved her skill sets and business acumen beyond coding. We recognized her quick growth and in short order her career entered a new phase, focused on management and client engagement," said Craig Gorsline, Chief Commercial Officer of ThoughtWorks. "Joanna is never satisfied with the status quo and is always pushing our team and our clients to think creatively when tackling problems. We are also excited to see Joanna mentor our next generation of IT professionals, including the Chicago based i.c.stars."

About Crain's Chicago Business 
For more than 30 years, business leaders have relied on Crain's as the go-to source for news and information about doing business in Chicago. More than a collection of products, Crain's Chicago Business is a rich media environment—in print, online, through in-person events, mobile and video.

About ThoughtWorks
ThoughtWorks is a software company and community of passionate, purpose-led individuals that specialize in software consulting, delivery and products. We think disruptively to deliver technology to address our clients' toughest challenges, all while seeking to revolutionize the IT industry and create positive social change. We make pioneering tools for software teams who aspire to be great. Our products help organizations continuously improve and deliver quality software for their most critical needs.

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SOURCE ThoughtWorks

Reyne Quackenbush, [email protected], 732-261-7420, http://www.thoughtworks.com