Next up in our Women in Tech Q&A Series is Helen Dickens, Managing Consultant and Rising Star award winner at the Midlands Women in Tech awards…
Q. What inspired you to pursue a career in technology, and how has your journey led you to your current role?
In my previous roles I found myself navigating through complex matrix organisations, spearheading strategies that merged technological innovation with process efficiency. Crafting both tactical digital solutions and comprehensive strategic approaches to address business-critical challenges became part of the day to day.
This experience led to my passion for technology and continuous improvement, which drove me to join Methods in 2021. Here, I have the opportunity to continue to push boundaries, leveraging technical knowledge and strategic insight to foster innovation and drive digital transformation.
Q. Are there barriers when it comes to women getting into tech?
The pressure of a demanding work culture is one of the biggest challenges women of any ages face today. Work-life balance often becomes non-existent in the midst of juggling work, life, play, and families, and I see many of my female colleagues feeling burned out trying to maintain an unrealistic schedule with the need to strike a balance between professional and personal responsibilities.
Whilst progress has been made, there is still so much more we can do. Progress requires commitment and action, and we need to change how women and society perceive what women can be and can do. We need to give women images and role models that expand their dreams and empower them to build self-worth, an ability to determine their own choices, and the right to influence social change for themselves and others.
Q. What emerging technologies or trends are you most excited about, and how do you see them shaping the future of your industry?
There are several emerging technologies and trends that are particularly exciting and have the potential to significantly shape various industries. More recently working solely in the CTO Automation Centre I have seen several advances in AI, these technologies are not only driving innovation but making processes more efficient, secure, and sustainable.
Q. How do you balance the technical aspects of your role with the need for strong communication and leadership skills in project management?
Balancing these aspects requires a proactive approach and a willingness to adapt. I focus on clear communication and planning to foster a collaborative culture with clearly defined project goals, roles, and responsibilities. This helps in aligning the team’s efforts and ensures that everyone is working towards the same objectives.
I also build strong relationships and trust in the wider team with technical tasks which enables me to focus on leadership and communication.
Q. What advice would you give to women looking to start a career in tech?
I strongly believe that the world belongs to those who want to make a difference and gender is no barrier. There is a newfound confidence among women from all walks of life, a sense of self-belief that they can excel in any domain, compete with their male counterparts on a level-playing field, attain leadership positions, and become role models for all. International Women’s Day coupled with hard work and perseverance, celebrates that women can achieve anything they set their minds on.
Q. Can you share an example of how your work has directly impacted a client or end-user?
I recently worked with the Home Office Chief Technology Office (CTO) Automation Centre where I led the end-to-end delivery of a Benefits Realisation approach over a period of 18 months. This project achieved a £3 million efficiency saving in realised automation benefits, meeting critical year one spending review targets and predicting the longer-term value of £55m over 3 years.
Q. How do you stay up-to-date with the latest developments in your field?
I am an advocate for continuous learning and improvement, regularly updating my skills and knowledge. I am also a member of several professional networks and of course social media, including LinkedIn, is great for networking and keeping up to date with the latest trends and technologies.
You can meet Helen alongside many more of our wonderful people at the Women of Silicon Roundabout held at the ExCeL London on the 27th and 28th November. Find out more.
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