Paula Felstead is Chief Information Officer at HBX Group.
Paula is a highly experienced international executive director with a proven track record in strong business performance and in leading and transforming technology. She is also a strong advocate for diversity and has led a number of initiatives to foster inclusion and drive meaningful change. Paula has dyslexia, and sees this as a help instead of a hindrance with it allowing her to process data and ideas differently, seeing connections others may miss.
Paula studied Computer Science at the University of West London, and has held senior positions previously in Ingenico. Visa Europe, Barclays, Prudential and Telefonica. At HBX Group, Paula leads all aspects of end-to-end delivery across the business including Technology, Data and Mergers & Acquisitions.
How did you land your current role? Was it planned?
My career in technology has been a journey of both strategic planning and seizing unexpected opportunities. I didn’t necessarily set out to become a CIO, but I have always been passionate about leveraging technology to solve business challenges. My background spans multiple industries, and throughout my career, I have prioritised continuous learning, adaptability, and collaboration.
At HBX Group, I lead the technology and data teams, working on complex projects that drive business growth and innovation. This role brings together my passion for problem-solving, leadership, and strategic vision. While I had clear career aspirations, my path has been shaped by curiosity, resilience, and the willingness to take on challenges that pushed me outside my comfort zone.
What are the key roles in your field of work, and why did you choose your current expertise?
Technology leadership encompasses a wide range of roles, including Chief Information Officers (CIOs), Chief Technology Officers (CTOs), IT Directors, and Heads of Digital Transformation. These roles require a blend of technical expertise, strategic thinking, and strong leadership skills.
I was drawn to technology leadership because it allows me to combine technical problem-solving with business strategy. I oversee a team of around 550 people, covering multiple areas, including engineering, data science, strategic partnerships, and mergers & acquisitions. This mix of expertise allows us to address challenges from multiple perspectives, balancing deep technical knowledge with a clear vision for the future.
I thrive in environments that require constant evolution, and the technology sector is perfect for that. Every day presents new challenges, from keeping up with the latest innovations to ensuring that our teams are aligned with the company’s long-term goals. The pace is fast, but it’s incredibly rewarding to lead teams that are shaping the future of our industry.
Did you (or do you) have a role model in tech or business in general?
I wouldn’t say I have a single role model, but I have always admired leaders who have challenged the status quo and driven meaningful change. I believe that great leadership is about empowering others, fostering collaboration, and creating an environment where innovation can thrive. Over the years, I have had the privilege of working with incredible people who have encouraged me to step up, push boundaries, and embrace challenges with confidence.
What are you most proud of in your career, so far?
One of my proudest achievements is leading major transformations that have fundamentally changed how businesses operate. Driving these initiatives requires not just technical expertise but also the ability to manage change, align stakeholders, and ensure that people feel empowered throughout the process.
Beyond the technical accomplishments, I am particularly proud of my role in mentoring and developing talent. I believe in recognising and nurturing hidden potential. Many people don’t realise what they are capable of until someone encourages them to see beyond their perceived limitations. Seeing how teams can grow, take on new challenges, and succeed in their careers is one of the most fulfilling aspects of my role.
What does an average workday look like for you?
My job is exciting, completely varied, challenging, and fast-paced. I lead multiple teams, each with its own unique challenges and focus areas. The technology and data landscape are always evolving, which keeps me on my toes, and I’m continually working to keep everyone aligned with our goals and strategy. Despite the intensity, I thrive on the variety and the challenges that each day brings, and I find immense satisfaction in helping to guide the company through these complex, fast-paced landscapes.
Are there any specific skills or traits that you notice companies look for when you’re searching for roles in your field?
For me, technology is all about problem solving and, as a result, it is important to have people who can offer alternative solutions and insights in order to bring a fresh approach to any issues. I think lateral thinking with a huge dose of pragmatism / realism is what I look for.
I think that in leadership roles there should be a huge emphasis on helping people see beyond their limitations; leaders should recognise their team members’ unique abilities and empower them to grow. This is an important part of my role as I am very interested in helping others to recognise their own potential. When it comes to hiring for new roles, there are certain traits that companies look for, I always look for individuals who are problem solvers, 360 thinkers and who can actually get things done.
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 industry has historically been male-dominated, and while progress has been made, challenges still exist. There is often an unconscious bias that influences hiring and promotion decisions, and women’s technical abilities are sometimes questioned or challenged more than men’s. – this is true of women’s perceptions as well as men’s!
I have experienced moments where my ideas weren’t taken as seriously as those of my male counterparts, only to be later validated when echoed by a man. This kind of bias, while often unintentional, can be frustrating. That said, I have also worked with incredible colleagues who have championed my growth and supported my development.
While the industry is changing, we need to continue pushing for more inclusivity. Women bring diverse perspectives and skills to the table, and it’s essential that we create environments where they feel valued and heard.
Have you ever faced insecurities and anxieties during your career, and how did you overcome them?
Having dyslexia has presented challenges, particularly in traditional learning environments and in certain aspects of my work. However, I’ve developed strategies to overcome these challenges, such as using visual techniques for complex calculations and focusing on pattern recognition rather than phonetics. I’ve found that you can adapt and find solutions to whatever you aren’t good at.
At times, I’ve struggled with self-doubt, but I’ve learnt to reframe my dyslexia as an advantage rather than a limitation. It is the way my brain works, both good and bad. It allows me to think differently, approach problems from unconventional angles, and see connections that others might miss. This has been a tremendous asset in my career as well as creating some funny moments along the way!
Entering the world of work can be daunting. Do you have any words of advice for anyone feeling overwhelmed?
Starting out in any career can feel overwhelming, but especially in tech, where the landscape is constantly changing. My advice is to stay curious, embrace lifelong learning, and seek out mentors who can provide guidance.
It’s also important to remember that nobody has all the answers. Even the most experienced professionals have moments of uncertainty. The key is to stay adaptable, trust in your abilities, and be willing to take risks. Every challenge is an opportunity to grow.
What advice would you give other women wanting to reach their career goals in technology?
Confidence, resilience, and adaptability are essential for women in technology. The industry wasn’t originally designed with us in mind, so we often have to navigate additional barriers. But progress is happening, and the more women we have in leadership, the easier it will become for future generations.
My advice is to advocate for yourself, seek out supportive networks, and surround yourself with people who challenge and uplift you. Tech needs diverse voices and perspectives—your contributions are valuable, and your ideas matter. Keep pushing forward, and don’t let anyone define limits for you.
