Realising our digital ambitions

As a Data Analyst, I build and develop analytical dashboards and reports that provide valuable insights to support Imperial in accomplishing its mission. I’m committed to actively participating in our data strategy, which aims to foster a data-driven culture.

In ICT’s Data and Analytics Product Line, we are currently working on improving the way we utilise and leverage data within Imperial through our enhanced Unified Data Platform (UDP). Additionally, we also empower teams across the university by utilising the Power BI tool to enable business intelligence, supporting better decision making.

“Starting anything new has no expiration date. What truly defines your path is your enthusiasm and commitment, not your beginning point.”

How did I get here?

After graduating from university in 2019, with a bachelor’s degree in mathematics, I was unsure about what I wanted to do next. As a result, I decided to take a gap year to explore my options and see if pursuing a Master’s degree was the best path for me. During this time, I developed a strong interest in both finance and the tech industry.

While pondering my next move, I accepted a position in finance for a few months, only to discover that it didn’t entirely align with my goals. I had the fantastic opportunity to join Imperial as a Data Analyst Apprentice in September 2022, which has been highly rewarding for me.

“Being a part of the IT industry has been really exciting because it is constantly evolving, offering me new challenges and opportunities for personal development.”

Working as a Data Analyst offers me a sense of fulfilment knowing that I contribute to shaping Imperial’s decision-making processes.

Being a part of the IT industry has been really exciting because it is constantly evolving, offering me new challenges and opportunities for personal development.

My future aspirations

One of my future aspirations is to undertake roles where I can lead and manage data projects. Furthermore, I am eager about sharing my skills and experiences with women who may be hesitant to enter the tech profession.

My goal, whether through mentorship or blog postings, is to encourage and support others on their tech journeys.

My advice

Starting anything new has no expiration date. What truly defines your path is your enthusiasm and commitment, not your beginning point.

“Believe in yourself, stay optimistic, and remember that your goals are within your grasp.”

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.

Read Spotlight on: Kadijatu Kamara, Data Analyst Apprentice in full

I’m Maria Teresa Douglas, the proud Product Owner for Data and Analytics here at Imperial.

I joined Imperial in January 2023, and in my role, I have the privilege of driving the development and enhancement of data and analytics products that fuel innovation and insights across our esteemed institution.

It’s an exciting journey where I get to leverage the power of data to enable evidence-based decision-making, which helps individuals at Imperial unlock their potential.

“Together, we will shape the future, where data insights drive transformative change, and our friendships make the journey even more meaningful.”

How did I get here?

I arrived in the UK in my early 20s, with little English but a passion for technology and embarked upon a degree in Computer Science.

On the back of this I have spent the past 25 years working in technology and data analytics for various companies; IBM, Microstrategy, Bank Santander, Sony, and Sainsbury’s. This journey has been a remarkable one, with each step contributing to my growth as a tech leader.

My homeland was originally Peru, once the home of the Incas. Funnily enough the Incas had an ingenious system called ‘Quipus’ for collecting and encoding data. They used intricate knotted cords to keep records and convey information, so maybe it’s in my DNA to work with data!

“It’s in my DNA to work with data!”

My future aspirations

As I continue my career path at Imperial, I am dedicated to fostering a culture of innovation and data-driven decision making.

My vision is not only to empower every member of our institution, but also to create a community of colleagues and friends who support and uplift each other.

Together, we will shape the future, where data insights drive transformative change, and our friendships make the journey even more meaningful.

My advice

To all aspiring women in tech, let me share with you the guiding principles I follow, drawn from the wisdom of inspirational figures.

“Be fearless in pursuing your dreams, ambitious in setting goals, and resilient in the face of challenges.”

Surround yourself with supportive allies and never forget your roots and the strength they provide.

Be fearless in pursuing your dreams, ambitious in setting goals, and resilient in the face of challenges.

Together, we can shape a future where women thrive and leave a lasting mark in the world of technology.

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.

Read Spotlight on: Maria Teresa Douglas, Product Owner in full

I am a Technology Delivery Manager which means I work on activities and projects that support our community by delivering technology to meet their needs.

I am currently working on many activites including an identity and access project, finalising a telephony migration to MS Teams, and supporting migration work for OneDrive and from group spaces.

My main role in project work is removing obstacles for the team and ensuring all the steps fit together to ensure the best outcome for staff and students.

“Always be open to new things, always give your best, and approach everything with empathy.”

I recently won the ICT Award for Respect, where my colleagues nominated me for the work I am doing and how I work with them.

They said, “Ingrid goes out of her way to make meaningful connections and to collaborate. She works very hard to deliver quality results, and is a valued team member – always keen to learn”.

I am lucky to have been highly commended for my Innovation as part of the Unified Access project work.

You can read about all the ICT Award nominations online and check out the other winners.

How did I get here?

I have been at Imperial for two years, I was able to join Imperial via a returner’s program after taking a career break.

Prior to my career break, I worked in the retail sector for Habitat.  I started there as a Business Analyst and moved up to Senior Business Analyst and Business Area Manager.

I later started managing the UK IT team for the buyers of all stores (excluding UK and Ireland).

“A career break can feel like a lifetime in Technology, so there is still a lot of learning to catch up on.”

My future aspirations

A career break feels like a lifetime in technology, as things change quickly, so I feel like there is still a lot of learning for me to catch up on.

But my real passion is understanding social and cultural impacts on organisational behaviour and how to affect change.

I come from a Chinese Reunion Island Mauritian background and being married to a British Greek Cypriot, I am especially interested in the area of social impact.

My advice

My advice to aspiring women in Tech, and also women returning to work, is to always be open to new things, always give your best and approach everything with empathy.

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.

Read Spotlight on: Ingrid Joannou, Technology Delivery Manager in full