I’m originally from Belarus and currently live in London. I have a BSc in Physics and a MSc in Computer Science.
In 2021, with my co-founder and partner in all crimes, Tom, I founded data and cloud engineering consultancy, Dot Collective. Specialising in building bespoke cloud-native data platforms, it’s a story of big passion and perseverance. Our team is now almost 80 people split across the UK and EU.
We have also recently embarked on another business venture, spearheading the launch of a new start-up, known as Pipeliner. Pipeliner gives data engineers the power to get deployable data and cloud infrastructure code in seconds. It translates mapping specifications into live pipelines with deployable code delivered straight to the engineer’s code management repository with them retaining full control and ownership of it.
Prior to founding Pipeliner and The Dot Collective, I ran the London division of the award-winning technology consultancy, BJSS, and was responsible for looking after 350+ very talented technologists, a portfolio of 50+ clients and a £70mil P&L.
A few years ago I made it on the Telegraph and Natwest’s 100 Female Entrepreneurs to Watch list.
How did you land your current role? Was it planned?
I’ve always wanted to be on the company board and at some point I realised that there is a much better chance of achieving that goal if you are to run your own board.
What are the key roles in your field of work, and why did you choose your current expertise?
I’ve worked in the data space in one way or the other pretty much all my career. At different points I’ve had a chance to wear the hats of lead analyst, data architect and delivery lead.
The tech industry in general and data sector in particular is a very dynamic, versatile and inclusive space with a plethora of roles available. Most roles require lots of creativity – which people rarely talk about for some reason – but it’s all extremely satisfying!
Did you (or do you) have a role model in tech or business in general?
My incredible friend Tiina Meder. She is the CEO of Meder Beauty, an amazing skincare brand, and she is the most inspiring person I know. She has shown me how to dream big, not accept average and mediocre as a compromise and to go after your dreams.
What are you most proud of in your career, so far?
Starting Dot Collective and Pipeliner with my co-founder Tom.
What does an average workday look like for you?
Rather hectic I am afraid but that’s the way I like it. I’ll usually shower, have a coffee, do the school run and walk the dog if I don’t have any early meetings. Then I’ll take a quick train ride to Blackfriars to the office, which shares the building with Hoxton and has a great vibe. Then, after a day full of meetings and conversations with clients and our amazing teams, I’ll ride back home, have dinner with my daughters and unwind.
I am the first to admit that I have really good support at home – my dad helps me a lot with the household and childcare and I cannot tell you what difference it makes when there is a dinner waiting for you or you don’t have to panic about picking up the kids from school. I do wish more women had similar luxury whereas in reality, most women sacrifice their careers to provide this level of comfort for their partners.
Are there any specific skills or traits that you notice companies look for when you’re searching for roles in your field?
I haven’t searched for roles for myself in a long time but I can tell you there are a few things that I look for when we interview people for positions at The Dot Collective and Pipeliner including passion, curiosity and expertise.
Has anyone ever tried to stop you from learning and developing in your professional life, or have you found the tech sector supportive?
The tech sector is one of the most inclusive sectors I know. If you are good at what you do, you can have a great career, and there are lots of smart and brilliant people in it who won’t mind helping and offering advice.
I am an immigrant from Eastern Europe who came to the UK with £100 in my pocket. I still have an accent, I am a woman and I have two daughters but I managed to build up my career just fine.
Anything is possible, but it might require lots of hard work and a bit of luck. But no, no one ever tried to stop me from learning and developing – it sounds unimaginable! However, I guess I’ve always been quite stubborn and driven about building a good life for myself and my family.
Have you ever faced insecurities and anxieties during your career, and how did you overcome them?
During Covid, I was struggling. Lots of people around me were incredibly supportive and my to-be co-founder was there for me every day – having people in your life with whom you can be honest and vulnerable is a big gift. Therapy also helped a lot too.
Entering the world of work can be daunting. Do you have any words of advice for anyone feeling overwhelmed?
Focus on the immediate next step and take it one step at a time… and don’t forget to smell flowers and kiss people you love!
What advice would you give other women wanting to reach their career goals in technology?
Don’t betray yourself and dream big!
