Critical Careers - Women Building Careers in Digital Infrastructure - Book - Page 76
How have you stretched yourself as your
role has grown?
As my role has evolved, the way I think about pushing myself has changed
quite signi昀椀cantly.
Earlier in my career, progression was closely linked to taking on more. More
accounts, more responsibility, more delivery. It was about building a strong
foundation and proving that I could operate consistently at a high level.
Now, the focus has shifted. I am still grounded in delivery, but I am
increasingly motivated by the bigger picture. That means looking at how we
shape strategy, grow accounts and create long-term value for clients, rather
than just focusing on the work in front of us.
Externally, that has meant becoming more involved in the commercial side
of the business. Understanding where opportunities sit, contributing to
growth and building client relationships in a way that is both strategic and
sustainable requires a different level of thinking. It is less about execution and
more about judgement and long-term impact.
Internally, the growth has come from focusing more on the team. The
data centre industry, in particular, is facing a real skills gap, which creates both
a challenge and an opportunity. At Spa, we have been proactive in bringing
in students from local universities and investing in developing that talent early.
A big part of my role is working closely with them to build their
understanding of the industry and how we apply marketing and technology
in practice. At the same time, it is a two-way process. They are coming into
the industry with a completely different perspective, having grown up in a
world shaped by AI and emerging technologies. I learn a huge amount from
that, and it brings a different energy and way of thinking into the team.
This has led to a shift in how I de昀椀ne success. Supporting and developing
people, raising standards and contributing to how the business evolves are all
part of that. It is no longer just about the work I deliver personally. It is about
enabling others to do their best work, strengthening client partnerships and
contributing to the overall direction and growth of the business.
74
“When people are clear
on what they are good
at and how that contributes
to the wider team, they
tend to perform at a
much higher level.”
