Blog posts

Spotlight on: Haneen Shariff, Digital Education Support Analyst

Haneen Shariff

I am committed to nurturing the next generation of female leaders in technology and facilitating pathways for their success.

As a Digital Education Support Analyst, I provide assistance and guidance to individuals using digital educational tools and platforms. This includes troubleshooting technical issues, offering training sessions, and developing resources to enhance the digital learning experience.

What do I love about my role?

The opportunity to empower others in their educational journey through the effective use of technology.

How did I get here?

My fascination with education technology began during my time at Carnegie Mellon University in Qatar, where I pursued a Bachelor’s degree in Information Systems with a minor in Business Administration, and a concentration in UI/UX design. Following my passion, I crossed continents and found myself at The Harvard Graduate School of Education, where I pursued a Master’s degree in Technology, Innovation & Education.

Over the course of my academic journey, I’ve been exposed to cutting-edge educational technologies and pedagogical approaches, broadening my perspectives on education and its intersection with technology. Alongside my educational endeavours, I gained experience in student services and worked as an Applications Analyst at Qatar Foundation. More recently, I was entrusted with establishing an ICT department for an upcoming school and university.

My future aspirations

Haneen ShariffI am driven to expand my role in mentoring and empowering young women within the tech industry. My experience as an alumni interviewer for Harvard has granted me a unique perspective, now finding myself on the opposite side of the table where I once sat. Moreover, being nominated for the ‘Everywoman’ awards in the Digital Star category has intensified my dedication to supporting and championing women in digital fields.

I am determined to advance my expertise in educational technology and pursue leadership roles in this domain. I am enthusiastic about exploring opportunities for advanced training and certifications, which will deepen my understanding and enable me to make a more significant impact in the realm of digital education.

I would also love to be involved in the creation of internship programs tailored specifically for young women. These initiatives aim to provide them with invaluable opportunities for learning and growth in a supportive environment. Such programs not only offer practical skills and experience, but also foster a collaborative community where both mentors and interns can learn from each other. I am committed to nurturing the next generation of female leaders in technology and facilitating pathways for their success.

My influences

My parents have been the most influential and inspiring figures in both my career and personal life. They have always been my pillars of support, giving me the wings to fly and encouraging me to dream big. From a young age, they instilled in me the belief that nothing academically was ever off-limits, regardless of my gender. Their unwavering support and encouragement propelled me to pursue my passions and strive for excellence in all endeavors.

One of the most valuable lessons they imparted to me was the importance of continuous learning and self improvement. They always encouraged me to up skill myself and pursue further education, knowing that knowledge is the key to unlocking new opportunities and achieving success. Their belief in my potential and their dedication to my personal and professional growth have been instrumental in shaping the person I am today.

Maintaining a work-life balance

Haneen ShariffCreating a work-life balance is crucial for my well-being, and I prioritise it by taking life outside work as seriously as in work. I plan my week and weekends in advance, ensuring I have events and activities to look forward to. One activity that fulfills and energises me is networking. Being new to London, I thoroughly enjoy meeting new people and exploring the vibrant restaurant scene in the city.

Whether it’s attending Harvard alumni socials or participating in Ramadan meetups, London offers a plethora of opportunities for social engagement. These networking events not only allow me to expand my professional circle but also enable me to immerse myself in the rich cultural diversity of the city. By engaging in activities that bring me joy and fulfillment, I find that I can recharge and maintain a healthy work-life balance.

My advice

One invaluable piece of advice for women entering the tech industry is to prioritise education, recognising that knowledge is a powerful asset that can’t be taken away. Give yourself due credit for your work, and don’t shy away from occupying the space you deserve in any room. Embrace the confidence to contribute your ideas and skills and when you do so, don’t forget to portray kindness and empathy to other women who were once in your shoes.

Bonus material

Haneen is a finalist in the Digital Star category at the 2024 everywoman in tech awards.

Want to join ICT?

We have some great and diverse roles in ICT, and we are always on the look out for the best tech talent.

If you want to join our team check out our current job vacancies.

Check out our Equality, Diversity and Inclusion pages and find out about or activities to remove barriers and create a great place to work.

 

Spotlight on: Lalitha Kambhammettu, Head of Research Management Applications

Lalitha Kambhammettu

 

I feel there is something new to learn every day and it can be from anyone we meet.

I am the Head of Research Management Applications. Along with my brilliant team (Chris Gibbs, Antonio Aliberti and Anthony Thomas), I look after the various applications that support the research lifecycle at Imperial.

What do I love about my role?

Our focus is to make the journey of a researcher (from idea to publication) smooth and world-class. What I love about my job is the variety of work that we get to do as part of this. One day we are debugging complex java/python code while another day we are with a researcher to understand their requirements to conduct secure research. The range of technologies that we work on makes everyday interesting.

How did I get here?

I finished my Master’s degree in Computer Applications in 2005 when I started my career with Oracle as an Oracle Applications Technical consultant. I grabbed opportunities to progress my career as they came along and had the honour of working with prestigious companies like ADT Security Services, Hewlett-Packard. I finally made my way to Imperial in 2014.

My future aspirations

I want to build a team which is resilient and has each others’ back. I strongly believe that the success of a manager comes from making their team successful.

My influences

Lalitha with her husband and two sons posing in front of a birthday cakeIf I have learnt valuable life lessons from the most experienced people in my life, I was reminded about the basics of life by my younger son, who once said to me at 3 years old, when he noticed I was getting anxious because of an issue – “Mummy, take a deep breath and relax, you will be fine!”

Managing a work-life balance

One of the most important aspects of my work-life balance is my strong family support – a loving and resilient husband, who always has my back and two adorable and co-operative children who understand that mummy may not be always able to cook them hot dinners, yet they’re still happy to just be by my side!

I enjoy early morning runs to maintain my physical and mental health. I also love cooking and hosting parties for family and friends.

My advice

My advice to aspiring women in tech is that if you have come this far, you will be great! There is nothing you can’t achieve if you commit to it. Just remember to prioritize your health and wellbeing too.

I feel there is something new to learn every day and it can be from anyone we meet. All my managers at Imperial have inspired me and a commonality among all of them was their passion for what they were doing and excellence in their work.

Want to join ICT?

We have some great and diverse roles in ICT, and we are always on the look out for the best tech talent.

If you want to join our team check out our current job vacancies.

Check out our Equality, Diversity and Inclusion pages and find out about or activities to remove barriers and create a great place to work.

 

 

 

 

Spotlight on: Caroline Westbrook, Product Owner

Caroline Westbrook

 

If you are interested in human behaviour and business technology, you can help design great IT systems.

I’m a product owner in the Student Lifecycle Product Line squad, co-ordinating and prioritising the work we are delivering to harmonise and improve students’ experiences of their Imperial journey.

How did I get here?

Caroline Westbrook talking with a stakeholderI came from a customer services background, having worked in and managed centres in various industries.  I was seconded to an ICT project and saw the work of a business analyst and realised I was fascinated by how business teams and ICT have to adapt to work together to achieve the right outcomes, and how hard that is to get right!

The step from BA to Product Owner seemed sensible especially as I learned more about Agile methods of delivery and it made a lot of sense to me.

My future aspirations

I don’t really think about much the future; I’m more drawn to what seems like the most interesting challenge.  That’s probably a terrible thing from an earnings perspective, but I’d rather be happy than rich!

My influences

My heroine is Alice in Wonderland.  There are lots of good analogies in those stories – both good and bad – for how business sometimes works!  But no matter what was going on around her, Alice was always curious and open to her next adventure (plus an everlasting tea party sounds great)!

Managing a work-life balance

Caroline WestbrookI’m interested in lots of things and as part of my midlife crisis I have recently taken a drawing class, tried stand-up comedy, joined a choir, and started doing fitness classes in quite a serious way.  When I’m on campus if I’m not in the office you’ll probably find me poking around in the Abdus Salam Library – it’s an amazing perk to have one within such easy reach.  So the same scattergun approach applies in both my personal life and career!

My advice

You really don’t need to have a technical background in coding and development to find a niche in ICT – I certainly don’t!  If you are interested in human behaviour and business technology, you can help design great IT systems.

Want to join ICT?

We have some great and diverse roles in ICT, and we are always on the look out for the best tech talent.

If you want to join our team check out our current job vacancies.

Check out our Equality, Diversity and Inclusion pages and find out about or activities to remove barriers and create a great place to work.

Spotlight on: Sara Concas, Junior Developer (Interim)

Sara Concas, Junior Developer.

“I believe that the most important thing is to be curious and open minded, and not be afraid of change, because it allows us to grow and improve.”

I’m currently on secondment with the ASK Development team as a Junior Developer after having completed the ServiceNow Bootcamp during summer 2023.

What do I love about my role?

I really enjoy working with and using the ServiceNow platform, and I hope to advance to an expert level.

How did I get here?

Sara Concas, Junior Developer. Holding a homemade cake

Years ago, my background was more focused in arts and crafts. I used to have a cake shop in Sardinia before moving to the UK about 11 years ago. After working as a cake designer for four years in London, I decided to change my career path to concentrate on IT.

I began as a junior first line analyst in an investment bank before being given the chance to work in asset management. This gave me the opportunity to get a job at Imperial in a similar position. Alongside this, I resumed my academic studies to obtain a BA degree, which I completed during the pandemic.

My influences

My younger sister and one of my friends motivated me to change careers. They both helped me to realise that I did not have to limit myself and to think outside the box.

Managing a work-life balance

I love starting new activities and some of my favourite hobbies are knitting and crocheting and studying new languages.

My advice

If you’re interested in technology, start with the basics and figure out which area you want to specialise in. It is such a broad field that you will be able to pick a path that aligns with your goals.

I believe that the most important thing is to be curious, open minded, and not be afraid of change, because it allows us to grow and improve.

Want to join ICT?

We have some great and diverse roles in ICT, and we are always on the look out for the best tech talent.

If you want to join our team check out our current job vacancies.

Check out our Equality, Diversity and Inclusion pages and find out about or activities to remove barriers and create a great place to work.

Spotlight on: Jenna Kempton, IT Service Management Lead (Interim)

Jenna Kempton, IT Service Management Lead

As women in technology we should use our strengths relating to engagement and multi-tasking to deliver great solutions. You have a voice – use it! Don’t be embarrassed to ask about areas that you feel need more focus and never be afraid to ask follow-up questions.

I joined Imperial in December 2021 as the Change and Release Lead. This means I track planned changes within our environment to ensure they have been planned and tested via release management and then considered by their peers through the change management process.

For the last nine months I have also been covering the IT Service Management (ITSM) Lead role which has meant as well as dealing with change and release Management I have had to oversee the processes, procedures and work related to the service we provide. This covers a broad range of areas including advice, solution development and service improvement.

What do I love about my role?

One of the best things about this role is the variety of areas that you get to engage with. This ensures you are always ready and able to learn about other areas being worked on and allows you to consider it from all sides including the technical, user and customer journeys, as well as any impacts relating to downtime, communications, users and any simultaneous conflicting activities or changes

In my role as the ITSM Lead, I really enjoy engaging with different business areas and finding ways we can improve how they deliver their services and the way they work, which all in turn improves user experience and customer satisfaction.

How did I get here?

Prior to joining Imperial, I worked in local government working for Southwark Council for 18 years starting off as a personal assistant and moving into project management. I dealt with everything from business reviews to headquarter fitouts. I was focussed more on the customer side with an external IT Service provider where we needed to manage their service delivery and engagement to ensure any required changes to take place were planned into the schedule.Jenna Kempton, IT Service Management Lead

I worked as the equivalent of a Product Owner for a number of the property management systems which were used to manage the council’s assets and deliver the housing, revenues and benefits services. I was able to get a well-rounded view of systems and services through third-party procurement process and on occasion having to transition these service back to an in-house provision.

Having initially trained in the Prince 2 project management style I have also completed a number of courses in human-centred design and the UK Government Digital Services’ design principles.

My future aspirations

In the future, I would like to get an in-depth understanding of every product we manage. I look forward to watching the development of the replacement for ICIS and SOV as part of the Great Service programme.

I enjoy seeing the pride and ownership we show in ICT in delivering the best we can for our students and customers. I am interested in moving into a product owner role as I like the idea of being able to deep dive into one section of services and doing all I can to ensure that we are getting the best outcomes and improvements for our users and customers.

My influences

I am grateful for my experience of powerful women who have demonstrated that through commitment and hard work, you can be proud of who you are and know that you have done the best that you can.

There is satisfaction to be found in a job well done and it is so important to do something you enjoy. I have a bad habit of working too much, but balance this with knowing that I will be able to hold my head up and know that I did all I could.

I have had a number of managers who always ensured they built their staff up and supported them in progressing and developing even if that would mean they moved on. I ensure I take the same approach with my team and that my staff know exactly what they are expected to undertake and ensure they are appropriately challenged and have opportunities to learn and develop. I believe that by providing a safe and supportive team environment, you can inspire staff to take ownership and initiative of the work they do and they will then model this behaviour in their engagement with others.

Managing a work-life balance

Jenna Kempton, IT Service Management LeadI find it hard to be idle so I enjoy a number of hobbies – some would say too many! I originally trained as a chef, and although having to cook for my husband and three children means it can feel more like a chore, I still love baking and find the routine and process relaxing,delicious and not at all disrupted by listening to true crime podcasts!

When I get some time to sit down and watch television, I am usually crocheting or working on a Sashiko project which help to address my creative side and I love that at the end you have something to show for your efforts.

My advice

Always try and avoid going into a situation with preconceived ideas and solutions.

Put yourself in the shoes of your customers, the agents and the technical side and ensure that you consider the entire user journey to identify where the issues are, so that any proposed solution is fit for purpose, delivers what you set out to achieve and improves the overall user experience.

As women in technology we should use our strengths relating to engagement and multi-tasking to deliver great solutions. You have a voice – use it! Don’t be embarrassed to ask about areas that you feel need more focus and never be afraid to ask follow-up questions.

Want to join ICT?

We have some great and diverse roles in ICT, and we are always on the look out for the best tech talent.

If you want to join our team check out our current job vacancies.

Check out our Equality, Diversity and Inclusion pages and find out about or activities to remove barriers and create a great place to work.

 

Giving our all – Women in Tech Festival

Jenny Rae and Lizzie Eustace at the ICT stall at the WiTF
Lizzie Eustace, Head of Communications and Jenny Rae, Chief Information Officer promoting ICT at the Women in Tech Festival 2023. (Image copyright The Channel Company)

Ten of our ICT staff attended the Women in Tech Festival 2024 to celebrate women who are shaping the technology industry and to meet up with women from across the tech sector who are advancing organisational diversity, making unmatched connections, and empowering and cultivating female leaders.

The festival was hosted by Computing and CRN, to ‘bring together the brightest minds and most influential women to connect with each other, share their stories and encourage future leaders.’

ICT merchandise includes a tote bag that says 'Join our community of problem solvers'
ICT merchandise (Image copyright: The Channel Company)

ICT sponsored the event and had a stall to showcase our Women in ICT campaign that encourages women to ‘Join or community of problem solvers’ as part of our recruitment efforts.

It was a really exciting and packed agenda, with many breakout sessions focussed on leadership, inclusivity and accessibility, as well as mentoring sessions available to support career progression.

The event hosted some inspirational talks from Olivia Schofield on Creating Networks  and Patricia Gestoso, Global Director, Customer Support and Operations, BIOVIA, on Automated out of work: AI’s impact on the female workforce. But the best bit was being able to meet and network with so many women over lunch and during breaks.

It is better to give, than to receive!

Bouquette Kabatepe, our Digital Accessibility Officer, appreciated Olvia’s advice.

“My favourite was the keynote speaker Olivia Schofield, and her simple advice on networking of go out there and offer to “give” first.

Jenny Rae, Chief Information Officer, agreed that you should “build your network! Events like Women in Tech give you the great opportunity to hear from people who you can learn from and also give back to by sharing your knowledge and experience.”

Bouquette gave herself a target of connecting with ten people on LinkedIn that day, which she managed to hit, including Olivia herself!

Bouquette Kadatepe networking at the event
Bouquette Kabatepe and Caroline Carter networking (Image copyright The Channel Company)

Bouquette says: “Sometimes realistic achievable targets are good for one’s self-confidence. Even if it just means proving to yourself that you can achieve the targets you set for yourself.”

Olvia suggested going out there and offering to ‘give first’ and think about what you can offer and help other people with. This mindset of giving and helping others first is a really great thing we can take back to our team in ICT and will greatly improve our service, especially when it comes to thinking about our user-centric approach to product delivery. If we all give first, the returns can be enormous!

“I have ten new connections now who are lovely and successful people in their areas. And I met them in person at the event – how cool is that!” Bouquette Kabatepe, Digital Accessibility Officer, ICT

Small changes helping people reach their full potential

Lizzie Eustace, Head of Communications, gave a great overview of the day and reflected on the many highlights and, how great it was to share them with so many fellow ICT colleagues.

“After a fabulous breakfast buffet spread, I sat down with the event brochure and met my first challenge – deciding which sessions to go to. They were all interesting!

My highlights were learning more about neurodiversity in the workplace and hearing from a panel of experts who were not only knowledgeable and experienced in their field, but also diagnosed with neurodiversity themselves. Their honesty and insight highlighted how small changes in the workplace can help everyone reach their full potential and thrive.

The session inspired me to learn more so I researched the topic on Gartner and spoke to some colleagues who also expressed an interest and desire to ensure we continue to strive to create a diverse and inclusive workplace. I’d love to see Imperial do more to embrace neurodiversity.

Jenny agreed with recognising the “importance of embracing diversity across our teams and utilsing the different skills and approaches a diverse team can bring.”

One of the final speakers was Amanda Brook, CEO of OpenUK. Amanda trained as a lawyer and now specialises in open-source law which for anyone interested in this area it is truly fascinating.

“I found myself frequently inspired by the women leaders and speakers which left me with a warm glow and renewed passion for working in the tech sector.” Lizzie Eustace, Head of Communications, ICT

Closing the visbility gap

Judy Asenguah, Technology Delivery Manager, most enjoyed the session on ‘Closing the visibility gap for women in Tech’ by Rupal Patel. Judy said “As women in tech we are ready and we are enough as we are. We don’t need to fake it to make it! Confidence is not fixed – anyone can practice being confident until they are, it’s a learning process.”

“I will start challenging assumptions about myself and understand that I will make mistakes along my journey and learn from them”. Judy Asenguah, Technology Delivery Manager

Robert Sprigens, Product Portfolio Officer and EDI Champion for ICT found the issue of underrepresentation in technology is not just exclusive to this one industry. There were multiple organisations from a variety of industries, all showing commitment to improve representation in their technology functions.

Robert said apart from the fun Halloween-themed food, the best thing about the event was the positive response to Imperial as a university being amongst the private sector organisations, showing its commitment to improve the number of women in the technology field. We really demonstrated our message that Higher Education is a modern environment, with a variety of tech opportunities.

Robert took many ideas away from the event but will ensure openness and honesty through conversation as a major step forward in overcoming challenges at work. Conversations help share ideas and solutions.

“Adopting techniques used by other people isn’t cheating, it is shared learning.” Robert Sprigens, Product Portfolio Officer

Jenny suggests, “We all need to take time out to reflect and learn from others – self development is something we have to make happen as you drive your own career.”

Find out about our ICT women who came along:

More photos from the Women in Tech Festival Event

ICT Service Desk at White City open for business

ICT Service Desk at White City with staff and students sitting at the desk
President of the Student Union, Camille Boutrolle, and Haider Nazerali the Imperial College School of Medicine (ICSMSU) President with ICT’s First Line Team

“We are excited to see this new Service Desk in operation providing first-hand IT services to our colleagues and students based at our White City and Hammersmith Campuses.” Okan Kibaroglu, Director of Customer Success

Okan Kibaroglu and Matt HegerOur brand-new ICT Service Desk opened to much applause from staff and students based at White City Campus and Hammersmith Hospital Campus.

This excellent support service was opened by Jenny Rae, Chief Information Officer, Okan Kibaroglu, Director of Customer Success and Matt Heger, School of Public Health Manager.

Our First Line Support Team, headed up by Mylene Cannon, celebrated alongside the President of the Student Union Camille Boutrolle, and Haider Nazerali the Imperial College School of Medicine President.

The Service Desk can be found at White City in room G20 of the Molecular Sciences Research Hub (MSRH) Building behind the café, and is freely available to all of our Imperial community to use.

Mylene Cannon
Mylene Cannon, First Line Lead celebrates in style at the opening party

As part of the opening celebrations we laid on coffee and cakes, and chatted to our community about what they can expect from the IT support on offer.

Our students were happy to receive their ICT goodies, as well as finding out more about what we can help with, like:

  • Connecting to the Wi-Fi
  • Accessing your email account
  • Mobile and laptop enquiries
  • Downloading apps and installing software
  • Campus print service
  • Resetting passwords and staying safe online
  • And much more!

Camille said, “This is a great service for our students”.

Now that the ribbon has been cut and the desk is officially open you can pop by between 08.30 – 16.30, Monday to Friday (excl. University closure days).

Other ways to contact us:

  • ASK us online – imperial.ac.uk/ask
  • Call us on +44 (0)20 7594 9000 (or x49000 from a campus phone)
  • In-person at the Abdus Salam Library, South Kensington Campus
Student at White City Service Desk
Feel free to come in and take a look at the new Service Desk

Thank you

We would like to thank the collaborative efforts of the following people, who ensured the new Service Desk was designed, installed and completed in readiness for our staff and students to use safely:

  • Mylene Cannon, First Line Lead, ICT
  • Judy Asenguah, Technology Delivery Manager, ICT
  • Liz Scholfield, PR and External Communications Specialist, ICT
  • Anna Talletti, Building Facilities Manager, Estates

Spotlight on: Jenny Rae, Chief Information Officer

Jenny Rae

I’ve recently been appointed the role of Chief Information Officer (CIO). In this role, I lead the Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) Division at Imperial and I am responsible for all aspects of Imperial’s Technology Strategy which will support the organisation to realise its digital ambitions.

“My passion is in bringing product management practices to IT departments, with the goal of delivering business value through technology.”

How did I get here?

My passion is in bringing product management practices to IT departments, with the goal of delivering business value through technology, and that is why I joined Imperial in January 2022 in my first role in Higher Education (HE) as the Director of Digital Products.

Jenny RaePrior to this, I spent a large part of my career in the telecoms industry working for Vodafone, BT and OneWeb in a variety of product management and business transformation roles. I have fifteen years’ experience in product management and business transformation, and have worked for FTSE companies in senior positions, but I also have experience working in the start-up world, which has given me a greater understanding of differing organisational structures, values and their customers’ needs.

“Spend time understanding the organisation you are in and how it operates, this will help you to change the role of IT in the organisation and build relationships in teams outside of your own.”

I studied a Business and Operations Management degree at Oxford Brookes and have an MBA in Business Administration from Henley Business School – this gave me the knowledge to put into practice in my career, but I am always continuing to learn.

My future aspirations

I want to create amazing experiences for our Imperial students and staff, delivering this through cross-functional empowered teams who are all working towards the same vision.

My advice

You should focus on outcomes rather than output. Technology isn’t a standalone activity; it can transform an organisation when it is used to achieve an outcome.

Spend time understanding the organisation you are in and how it operates, this will help you to change the role of IT in the organisation and build relationships in teams outside of your own.

Bonus Material

ON-DEMAND WEBINAR: WHY UNIVERSITIES ARE THE BEST PLACE FOR CONTINIOUS LEARNING, SKILL DEVELOPMENT AND STRATEGIC PLANNING

Want to join ICT?

We have some great and diverse roles in ICT, and we are always on the lookout for the best tech talent.

If you want to join our team check out our current job vacancies.

Check out our Equality, Diversity and Inclusion pages and find out about or activities to remove barriers and create a great place to work.

Spotlight on: Gemma Seabrook, Information Insight Team Lead

I lead the Information Insight team and we are responsible for managing the universities business intelligence product – Power BI.

I joined Imperial’s ICT division shortly after Power BI was released, and since then, I have seen significant change in the analytics space, moving away from a small central team of programmers to an ‘analytics for all’ approach. This has empowered Imperial staff to produce the analytics they need, when they need it. The key focus for our team is to enbable people, who may have a varied range of analytics experience, to make the best use of the tools we offer.

“Don’t be afraid to give something a go. Even if you fail, you will learn from it. Often, we learn more from breaking things (in a safe development environment of course!) than from getting them right.”

How did I get here?

Gemma Seabrook showcasing her work at the ICT ExpoFor someone who holds degrees in cultural studies I came to analytics through an unusual career route! A summer job in a space planning role at a major supermarket taught me a range of skills with spreadsheets that I put into good, and enthusiastic use, when I set out on my career in higher education. My passion for this type of work soon turned into colleagues saying, ‘Gemma likes spreadsheets, let’s give her this data task’, and this became my primary role. From there on I worked with various datasets including; university data, surveys, and longitudinal studies. I started combining data and project management work, and then progressed to enjoy working in business analysis.

My future aspirations

I believe strongly that the right technologies can enable people to achieve their goals, and this is a key focus for me. Data is key to making informed decisions at every level of the business, and this scale of need will lead to more people wanting to do even more with data. I want to provide an analytics product that will help people achieve that, while also putting in place structures and guidelines that will help keep that data, and the people analysing it safe.

“Find a working environment that respects and enables you.”

My advice

Follow your passions. The more you enjoy your work, the better you will be at it.

Find a working environment that respects and enables you.

Don’t be afraid to give something a go. Even if you fail, you will learn from it. Often, we learn more from breaking things (in a safe development environment of course!) than from getting them right.

Instead of fearing change, make it an opportunity for you to get where you want to go.

Bonus Material

Find out more about Gemma’s career journey on our everywoman in Tech webinar blog post – You should never be the one to tell yourself no!

Want to join ICT?

We have some great and diverse roles in ICT, and we are always on the look out for the best tech talent.

If you want to join our team check out our current job vacancies.

Check out our Equality, Diversity and Inclusion pages and find out about or activities to remove barriers and create a great place to work.

 

 

 

 

Spotlight on: Michele Barritt, Head of HR and Finance Product Line

Michele Barrett

 

As Head of the HR and Finance Product Line, I am responsible for establishing a clear vision for each product in my portfolio, developing strategy and roadmaps for each product and working in partnership with key business stakeholders from the Human Resources (HR), Finance and Research Administration teams.

I am responsible for the end-to-end delivery of products within my product line. It is equally important when developing or implementing new products I ensure that they meet users’ requirements.

I collaborate with staff support networks across Imperial to ensure the products we deliver are inclusive to everyone.

I also have to manage resources and financial budgets to ensure that we have the right team in place to support the product lifecycle.

“If you invest in people then they will invest in you. Respect the unique worth of every individual.”

How did I get here?

Michele Barrett showcasing her work to a colleagueI am currently Head of HR and Finance Product Line and I have been at Imperial for four years already! It’s exciting to be working with teams on a business transformation programme, working to transform business areas that I support.

I think Imperial is a great place to work because I thrive on working in partnerships with colleagues from all over the organisation.

I joined at the beginning of May 2019 as the Team Lead for System Solutions in ICT responsible for the Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system, before progressing into my current role.

My career started out in HR in the charity sector, but this organically grew into a role in technology when the IT Director appointed me to manage the entire Oracle estate after managing a succesful implementation project. I was responsible for bringing on new products such as self-service and recruitment.

As part of my personal development, I completed numerous Oracle training programmes during this time, and I obtained the NVQ4 and 5 qualifications in Management.

I also hold an Institute of Leadership and Management (ILM) qualification and I am a member of the Chartered Institute for People Development (CIPD).

My future aspirations

Michele BarrettI am motivated to continue my career in digital and technology, in roles that contribute to making a positive difference, add value and let me grow as an individual.

I want to continue to champion the Imperial Values, and to be an ally to Imperial’s LGBTQ+, disability and BAME community and staff support networks, as well as other staff groups and forums.

I will continue to promote diversity and inclusion in the workplace, as well as promote attracting females into technology, and be a peoples champion.

“Respect the unique worth of every individual.”

My advice

The world of tech is exciting and has great opportunities.

If you invest in people then they will invest in you. Respect the unique worth of every individual.

Don’t be afraid of asking questions or of those that ask questions of you and want to learn from you. You are never too old to learn and grow.

Inspire and be inspired. Lead by example, collaborate and inspire.

Problems are challenges and there is always an answer!

Want to join ICT?

We have some great and diverse roles in ICT, and we are always on the look out for the best tech talent.

If you want to join our team check out our current job vacancies.

Check out our Equality, Diversity and Inclusion pages and find out about or activities to remove barriers and create a great place to work.