A ‘non-techies’ journey to leadership
By: Kathryn Tingle
Tags: Consulting, Leadership, Women In Tech, Diversity In Tech, Technology

I won’t re-cap my journey to tech, as I’ve done that previously but for those who are new here, I’m an ex ‘big four’ strategy consultant, who now leads high impacting technology programmes and a few other things with over 8 years experience. In April, I was parachuted into one of the most cutting edge programmes for the 151 year old business I have the pleasure of working for. It’s an exciting and super complex programme, touching all aspects of our operating system. It’s on our Operating Boards top priorities and I get to work with some super smart people. It comes with constant challenge, no day is the same and there’s always something to solve, interfacing and thought partnering with the most senior people in the business on a daily basis. In April, I was adjusting to full time remote working, with the usual ‘first day (virtual) jitters’ in tow. On reflection, there were a few things that were playing on my mind, despite having a strong poker face and a great roster of experience:

How am I going to make a positive impact and influence my senior stakeholders whilst working virtually?

I won’t be able to walk up to people’s desks with burning questions and follow ups! There are no ‘water cooler’ chats anymore oh gosh!

I’m not a traditional ‘technologist’, will I be viewed differently i.e. no computer science degree?! (Sods law…it’s a joke I did law at uni, clearly I’m delirious at this point after back to back meetings and writing this minutes to midnight, forgive me)!

With the comfort of having now secured a promotion to leadership, I look back at these worries with a complete different mindset. I realised that ‘imposter syndrome’, was playing a huge part here. Through my love of reading, podcasts, chatting to leaders, I also have the comfort to know…that feeling is completely normal. I mean if Michelle Obama can feel like an ‘imposter’, despite her long list of achievements and academic excellence, who am I?! I say all of this to encourage anyone who is starting a new role, wanting to change industry or go for that promotion — do it!! The best leaders have a strong line up of coaches, mentors and thought partners and there’s definitely a good reason for it.

We are usually more equipped than we realise, and if we’re not equipped, there are plenty of resources available to plug these gaps. When I left my Commercial Strategy Lead role and took the initial role as Technical PM, I had a strong network of internal stakeholders I had worked with on other big programmes. Having great relationships is always helpful, even within ‘newish’ circles because ‘news travels fast’! In the past 9 months, I was fortunate to have a strong support system and a kick-ass, inspirational leader who gave me room to learn, to deliver and to grow. Continual guidance from a CTO, who has been a fantastic thought partner and champion for me has also paid dividends. I’ve learnt so much over the nearly 9 years and definitely over the past 9 months. Like many of us, I’m my worst critic but I can say I’ve worked incredibly hard to get to this point! There have been many challenges and I have stories ‘for days’ about less favourable times and experiences but, a healthy dose of resilience, has paid off. There’s a lot more that I can share, but I’ll reserve that for another time!

I’m excited to pay it forward through mentoring, sharing new opportunities (as they arise within my team) and providing insight into my experiences.

If I don’t catch you beforehand, wishing you all a wonderful Christmas and an amazing New Year.

Kathryn x