The future of technology should be shaped by diverse voices. That’s why we are proud to spotlight the incredible women in tech in our team who are pushing the boundaries of innovation, tackling challenges, and inspiring the next generation of leaders in the field.
This article is part of a series of interviews with our team who share their careers experiences. Meet our next interviewee: Melissa Carter , Compliance Manager at Netcentrix.
💡What is your current role?
As the Compliance Manager I am responsible for the delivery of a robust compliance service to the business. I ensure that the business and its employees comply with all relevant regulations and specifications to ensure the legal and ethical integrity of the Company. This includes health and safety, data protection, environmental, and quality standards, as well as ethical policies the company has in place. To support this, I am responsible for maintaining the company’s suite of ISO accreditations by co-ordinating and managing our internal and external audits.
💡How did you get started in IT?
By accident! I was managing the compliance within one of the other companies owned by our founder Matt Newing and was asked to come along and do the same within Elite Group [Sister company to Netcentrix].
💡Can you share a little about your career to date?
After growing up with a determination to become a History teacher, all that changed once I had finished my A levels and had started working part-time in a bank. I enjoyed interacting with people and felt I would learn and develop far more as an individual if I continued working full time instead of going to university. During my time at the bank, I progressed to Bank Manager and really enjoyed the challenges that came with that role. After the world of banking changed in 2008, I decided it was time for a new challenge and took the plunge to become a self-employed consultant specialising in compliance.
I started off with 1 client, assisting them with their ISO accreditations and internal audits, and eventually grew my portfolio of clients into double figures. During that time, I became a qualified ISO auditor and after auditing one of Matt Newing’s businesses, I was offered the position of Compliance Officer. Gradually this has extended into his other businesses, and I now manage the compliance and oversee the various ISO accreditations across group.
💡Have you noticed a lack of women in the technology industry throughout your career? If yes, how has this changed as your career has progressed?
I think when I started in technology you could count on 1 hand the number of females within the business. And those ladies tended to work in support function roles which weren’t specific to the technology aspect of the business. It has been refreshing to see this start to change over the past few years and I am now proud to work alongside some incredible females who are doing a fantastic job in the technology frontline side of the business. It’s also especially inspiring to see a number of strong females in managerial roles within our business.
💡Do you believe your gender has ever impacted the way you have been perceived or treated in your career?
Yes, I do believe my gender has provided a challenge sometimes in ‘getting in the room’ where important decisions are made. I have every confidence in my capabilities and am not afraid to voice my opinions, the challenge has been getting the opportunity to do so. Fortunately, I have seen this change significantly over the past 12 months and am glad I have been given the opportunity to get more involved in the strategic decision making within the business.
💡What do you think businesses should be doing to encourage more girls and young women to consider careers in technology?
Continue to squash the stigma that technology is a ‘mans world’. Showcase all the incredible women out there who are experts in their fields and do a fantastic job day in day out. And promote the fact that it’s the best person for the job, regardless of gender.
💡What is the one piece of advice you would give to a young woman looking to enter the industry or just at the beginning of her career in technology?
Become the expert in your role and convey it in your own style. Getting in the room and having your voice heard is the biggest challenge you’ll face, so make sure when you get the opportunity you convey it with confidence. That way it becomes genuine and sincere, and that always inspires trust and admiration.
💡What is it about technology that keeps you engaged and passionate about your role?
Technology is always evolving and provides a fast-paced and exciting industry to be a part of. Whilst the technology we provide is tangible, it’s helping people to improve their businesses and enrich their own development. Being part of a business that supports those improvements is an enticing prospect.
We’re spotlighting the incredible women who are part of our team. Keep your eyes peeled for our next Women in Tech installment.
