Digital Her | » Hannah Smith

WHAT DO YOU DO?

I help clients to realise their digital transformation goals and bring business and technology stakeholders together to drive value for organisations and their customers. My background is in Architecture, but my role in 'Technology Enablement' encompasses a wide range of topics, from strategy planning and cloud migration to product ownership and technology selection. I'm also a keen proponent of agile ways of working and help clients to embrace these to help move them forward at pace.

WHAT SKILLS DO YOU USE MOST IN YOUR JOB?

Communication - both written and verbal communication are key to what I do. I often work as what I consider a 'bridge' between technology and business stakeholders, helping to translate complex technical ideas to more tangible business-focussed
Problem solving - I love bringing a fresh perspective to tricky issues and finding novel ways to solve problems and add value.
Initiative - there's often no specific rule-book for what I am working on, so I need to be able to trust my gut, get stuck in and not wait for permission.
Handling ambiguity - being comfortable with not having all the details, things changing rapidly and being able to course-correct as needed are key.
Strategic thinking - this is often key to my work and I need to be able to see the bigger picture, imagine how changes will impact the wider landscape of an organisation and plan for the future, while also appreciating that things will always be changing.

WHAT'S THE MOST INTERESTING THING YOU'VE WORKED ON IN YOUR CAREER SO FAR?

I love the fact that in my current consultancy role I get the opportunity to work with such a wide and varied range of clients. This means I'm always doing something different and learning about new industries and organisations. I love the variety and the pace of the work and I'm excited to be able to see the value I can bring to clients.

WHAT'S YOUR EDUCATIONAL BACKGROUND?

I have a degree in English Language and Literature from the Open University. Having never considered a career in tech, an opportunity through an agency came up which I jumped on and I've not looked back since. I've built up skills both through my various roles and having completed a wide range of technical training and certification.

WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO GO INTO DIGITAL & TECH?

The opportunity to work in a field where there is always something new to learn, things are constantly changing and there is a massive variety of roles and opportunities. I love to learn and wanted a role where I can constantly grow and challenge myself and where I'm not put into a box or labelled. I didn't see a huge number of people who looked like me initially and I'd love to inspire other girls and women to get involved in this sector.

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO GIRLS THINKING ABOUT A CAREER IN DIGITAL AND TECH?

Just go for it! There are so many opportunities and a huge variety of roles in the industry so there's something to fit everyone, no matter what your passion is. Forget the stereotypes and forge your own path. Stay curious, ask questions and get stuck in!