I start my working day by going through emails that may have come in overnight. Throughout the day I work with businesses of all sizes from one-man bands right the way up to large law firms – talking through their products and services and how Barclays Eagle Labs can help them to innovate, create and grow. My evenings are often spent running events for businesses, the community and also for Barclays colleagues. I use Barclays’ wider network across Jersey and the UK to provide as much value for local companies as I can, often bringing over people with tech or finance expertise to help different local industries.
How did you get your job?
My journey into my job at Barclays started with my role as Chairwoman for Women in Tech Jersey (WIT). I ran events and initiatives to help more women from our local community get into the tech industry. Through my work I met the previous ecosystem manager Joanne Alford. Talking to Jo about the Eagle Lab I soon learnt that Barclays shared my passion for supporting tech entrepreneurs and delivering interesting events and initiatives for the Jersey business community. Essentially I could make my volunteer job my day job!
What motivates you in this role?
My motivation for my role is being able to work with local businesses and the local community to help them grow and understand how tech developments can help aid every industry. It is also about seeing Jersey prosper and capitalise on the skills and expertise we have access to. I feel it is a role in which I can really make a difference.
Are there any future skills you will need to learn for your role?
Continued learning is something I will always need. This role is very much about new tech and business developments, so every day I need to make sure I am always reading and learning.
What are the three most important skills required for your role?
Strategic thinking, relationship creation and management, and, practically speaking, event management is crucial.
What advice would you give someone interested in a career in your profession?
Find what you enjoy doing and focus on that. So if there is something you really enjoy whether that is in your spare time or work life try and knuckle down in that one area and develop it into a career that you really enjoy.
FUN FACT
One fun fact is that I have previously powerboat raced in the UK.