Kate has worked at FDM for 11 years in a variety of roles from Graduate Recruitment to the experience Consultants have on its award-winning career programme.
Kate is a member of FDM’s senior leadership team, heading up the Apprenticeship Programme which focuses on creating alternative routes into higher education and a career in technology and its Alumni Network which creates a professional community for Consultants once they leave FDM. FDM is a FTSE 250, multi award-winning employer with a mission to bring people and technology together and a strong commitment to diversity, equity and social inclusion.
How did you land your current role? Was it planned?
Ten years ago, I was working in the university sector and was ready for a change in career direction into a more commercially focused organisation. It wasn’t planned but FDM stood out to me as a company at the forefront of technology that matched my values around diversity and social inclusion and was doing interesting and innovative things to encourage more people to consider a career in tech. I had no experience working in this sector but could see myself transferring my existing skills and passions into a new environment – acquiring new knowledge and skills felt like an exciting challenge. Whilst I knew it was unlikely that I’d ever become a software tester or developer I also knew there were many other opportunities available so I joined the business and started on a new career journey.
What are the key roles in your field of work, and why did you choose your current expertise?
I’m not a technologist but FDM needs professionals from many different backgrounds so it wasn’t too difficult to find a space I could fit into. As a careers professional I knew that my skillset would enable me to transfer into graduate and early careers – recruitment, university attraction and roles focused on career journeys.
Did you (or do you) have a role model in tech or business in general?
Anyone listed in the Top 100 female tech leaders is hugely inspirational and Brene Brown provides a fresh and much-needed approach to leadership.
What are you most proud of in your career, so far?
We’re not a company to collect awards for the sake of it but being recognised for our commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion always provides a proud moment and our Apprenticeship Programme is a particularly satisfying part of my work.
What does an average work day look like for you?
Usually, a day with lots of variety meeting different people. Particularly interesting when it involves external meetings and professional networks.
Are there any specific skills or traits that you notice companies look for when you’re searching for roles in your field?
I’m not a technologist but all areas of business require skills in data and analysis. Above all emotional intelligence, business relationships, strong comms and a healthy dose of empathy will always be needed.
Has anyone ever tried to stop you from learning and developing in your professional life, or have you found the tech sector supportive?
No, but you have to be prepared to be responsible for your own learning sometimes. Finding time away from your day job will be challenging but making that time will always be beneficial.
Have you ever faced insecurities and anxieties during your career, and how did you overcome them?
Yes! I don’t think this is necessarily always a bad thing and having your own network of friends and supportive colleagues will provide you with the reassurance and sounding board we all need. Being open to challenges can also be positive, and will help you be a more rounded professional and grow in ways you may not have expected.
Entering the world of work can be daunting. Do you have any words of advice for anyone feeling overwhelmed?
There are so many routes into tech, but this can also be overwhelming so start by researching those that genuinely interest you and play to your strengths without ruling too many out. Find companies that match your values and don’t talk yourself out of applying. Often things will come at the most unexpected moments but if you don’t actively pursue opportunities, you’ll never be in a position to find out. Sometimes you may need to take a few risks and asking yourself what’s the worst thing that could actually happen may give you the confidence to make a start.
What advice would you give other women wanting to reach their career goals in technology?
Be as open-minded to the opportunities as you possibly can. There are so many routes into tech and there’s a role for everyone that will fit your skills and interests. It’s a constantly evolving sector which will bring about many different careers in your lifetime so it’s important to be curious and never stop learning. Explore your interests and learn from your experiences – there’s no such thing as failure, just feedback. By connecting with the many professional networks and communities that exist to support females in tech you’ll find like-minded others to help realise your ambitions and goals.
