In our quest to spotlight exceptional female leaders in the technology sector, we had the privilege of interviewing Natasha Dunn, Director of HTS Transformation Programmes at Oxford Nanopore Technologies Ltd. Natasha shared her inspiring journey, challenges faced, and valuable advice for aspiring women in tech.
Natasha Dunn: Like many, I stumbled into tech. My knack for numbers guided me towards a degree in maths and chemistry. Post-graduation, I ventured into various jobs until landing at Oxford Nanopore. Initially joining as a production scientist, I swiftly transitioned into roles involving automation and ERP systems implementation. This journey propelled me into supply chain and systems development, culminating in leading our business systems team and spearheading major projects like our company-wide ERP upgrade in 2020.
COVID-19 posed significant challenges, especially in maintaining team morale and adapting to remote work dynamics. We prioritised stable digital infrastructure and introduced initiatives like virtual team-building activities to foster a sense of camaraderie. Despite the intensity, we successfully completed pivotal projects, leveraging the crisis as a catalyst for advancing our digital capabilities and embracing flexible work arrangements.
During COVID-19, work-life balance took a back seat as I devoted long hours to work. Now, I prioritise effectively managing my schedule, blending work commitments with personal activities. Inspired by figures like Michelle Obama, I proactively schedule personal time and commit to activities like gym sessions, ensuring a holistic approach to well-being amidst professional demands.
The rapid pace of the IT industry can be daunting, particularly without a traditional IT background. I've embraced curiosity, asking questions and seeking mentorship to bridge knowledge gaps. Overcoming the fear of not knowing everything has been crucial, emphasising the importance of continuous learning and sharing knowledge within teams.
How do you stay abreast of evolving trends in the IT industry?
Admittedly, staying current with IT trends is challenging, but platforms like LinkedIn Learning and engagements with industry experts have been invaluable. Attending events and pushing beyond comfort zones are essential for growth, despite occasional feelings of inexperience.
Can you highlight a standout achievement from your career thus far?
Leading the company-wide ERP upgrade stands out as a significant accomplishment. Overcoming challenges and collaborating across teams underscored the importance of deep subject matter expertise and effective project management. Additionally, our 2021 IPO on the London Stock Exchange marked a milestone in Oxford Nanopore's growth trajectory, showcasing our resilience and capacity for innovation in the biotech sector.
What diversity, equity, and inclusion (DE&I) strategies have you championed at Oxford Nanopore?
DE&I remains a focal point, evidenced by initiatives like Values in Action (VIIa) and inclusive team-building activities. Transparency in discussing topics like the gender pay gap fosters an environment where all voices are heard, reflecting our commitment to inclusivity in tech and science.
How can we encourage more women to pursue careers in STEM?
Early exposure to diverse STEM fields is critical. Educators and mentors play pivotal roles in guiding young women towards tech careers by showcasing opportunities and dispelling misconceptions. Empowering individuals to explore and adapt their career paths nurtures a more inclusive and dynamic STEM workforce.
What advice would you give to women aspiring to enter the technology sector?
Embrace important conversations about career progression, salary negotiations, and barriers hindering advancement. Develop data literacy skills, crucial in today's tech-driven landscape, to enhance decision-making and career prospects. Above all, believe in your capabilities and seek mentorship to navigate challenges and achieve your professional goals.
Natasha Dunn's journey exemplifies resilience, innovation, and leadership in the tech industry. Her insights and experiences serve as a beacon for aspiring female leaders, illustrating the transformative impact of perseverance and continuous learning in shaping successful careers in technology. At Oxford Nanopore and beyond, women like Natasha are driving meaningful change and inspiring the next generation of tech innovators.
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