Describe your career so far?
This is my first job since leaving university. I'm going through the 2nd year of the JPM Graduate Programme and thus far I've had the opportunity to experience test, development, and operate roles. This has helped me to decide, in which area of IT I would like to pursue my career. From these experiences I have chosen to follow an operate role within Concorde Operate. I have spent 5 weeks in this role and am enjoying what Operate has to offer.
What made you attracted to a career in IT and anything specific that attracted you to JPM?
My interest in IT developed through school, leading me to a course in Information Systems Development at university.
When I was looking for a graduate role, I thought that as JPM was a large company, there would be a lot of room for rotation, which appealed to me. My experience of the graduate programme has re-affirmed my initial thoughts.
In a male dominated industry what career tips would you give to a female who's just starting up on her career?
I think it's important not to stereotype people, and to go into a job with an open mind, whether its in I.T or any other profession.
What has been your biggest challenge so far in IT?
When I first started my job I thought that my biggest challenge would be learning the technical aspects of the application and the processes involved in the software lifecycle. However, I was wrong. I have found gaining business knowledge the biggest challenge. In addition, the daily tasks involved in problem solving, such as knowledge transfer from colleagues and code and documentation mining have proved every bit as challenging and rewarding.
Do you think there is enough balance between work and the home for people with families working at JPM?
From personal experience, some roles are harder than others to balance work and family, for example, in the Operate team, where you are required to work shifts and provide overnight support it is more of a challenge.
Are there any initiatives that you think JPM could do or could do better to attract females to the ETC?
JPM should continue to promote itself as an employer for women in IT who at some point in their careers may seek to work part-time or job-share, due to family commitments.
Is there anything specific you would like the diversity initiative to focus on?
As stated above, I would like the diversity initiative to focus on the opportunity for obtaining a healthy work-life balance, especially for those individuals, both male and female, who at some time point in their career may wish to balance their work life with their family life.