Bob W.
About me
| Bob W. | |
| Economics and Related Studies | |
| Economics | |
| Undergraduate | |
| Langwith | |
| 1989 | |
| United Kingdom |
My employment
| IT Director | |
| Global automotive distributor | |
| United Kingdom | |
| Digital and IT services |
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A day in the life of a IT Director in the United Kingdom
The variety of work as IT is now at the heart and leading edge for most organisations.
Briefly describe the organisation you work for
I work for a global Automotive distributor and retailer, operating in over 30 countries and representing many of the worlds leading car brands.
What do you do?
I lead the IT department for our European Region. We operate in 10 countries in Europe that range in scale and maturity. My teams manage all parts of IT from infrastructure and security, through business applications to customer websites.
Reflecting upon your past employment and education, what led you to your current career choice?
The variety of work as IT is now at the heart and leading edge for most organisations.
Is your current job sector different from what you thought you would enter when you graduated?
Yes, when I graduated I spent a number of years in logistics, then qualified as an accountant before moving into IT in 2000.
Describe your most memorable day at work
It is difficult to pick out a single day, but the two things that give me greatest pleasure are when we deliver a new system or application that really adds benefit to the wider the business and that our customers give us great feedback about.
The second thing is when I see one of my team develop into a new role. Helping people grow in their career and as individuals is really satisfying.
Are there any challenges associated with your job?
There is always too much to do and working out what is most important and will make the biggest difference is a real challenge.
What’s your work environment and culture like?
It's a cliché, but everyone who joins says how welcoming and supportive everyone is. It is a really positive and supportive culture. That said, you are expected to work hard and sometimes long hours.
What extracurricular activities did you undertake at university and what transferable skills did you develop through these?
I played many sports and college level (recreational and good fun) and helped put on gigs for the SU. I was also heavily involved in the ski club. Team work, organisation and planning are great skills that I learnt, and also to be positive and don't let people say "it can't be done".
What would you like to do next with your career?
If Covid has opened my eyes to one thing it is that I want a career with more flexibility on when I work and where I work.
What top tips do you have for York students preparing for today’s job market and life after graduation?
It's tough, but don't become disheartened, you only need to find one job.
Hold out for the right job.
Prepare properly for each interview. Know the company and what's different about you that you can bring to the job.
Be positive and be yourself.
Next steps...
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