THE BUSINESS CHIEF INTERVIEW
T
ell us about your role with Apex Group As Chief Digital Information Officer at Apex Group , I am responsible for defining technology strategy to deliver business goals and driving transformation across Apex Group ’ s IT functions globally , as well as executing digital innovation , cloud , data , cyber and modern workplace strategic plans .
What is the biggest challenge you face in your job ? Finding balance . There is always more demand than there is capacity to change . Even with infinite budget and resources , there is only so much change that an organisation can cope with before client service and operations are impacted adversely . I have to find a balance between keeping the existing technology estate , technology-enabled products and services working well , ensuring we are protecting data and meeting regulation , and driving innovation and change through the execution of our technology strategy .
Apex Group has tripled in size over the past three years . What have been the main drivers of that growth ? Apex Group has been on an exciting and unique growth journey – both through double-digit organic growth and also by making more than 40 acquisitions since 2017 . This has enabled us to evolve into a global provider of data-driven financial services , offering an unmatched range of solutions underpinned by innovative technology platforms . We now have more than 12,000 employees across 94 offices in 50 markets . I joined Apex Group via the acquisition of Sanne Group in 2022 ; the continued integration of businesses and systems , as well as keeping pace with this “ hypergrowth ”, are constant priorities for me and my team .
What was it like for you starting out as a woman in a male-dominated industry ? I have worked in the technology function across multiple industries and , in some , I was more often than not the only woman in the room . During my time as a consultant in the 1990s , I arrived at an office with two junior male colleagues , only for the customer to assume I was the team apprentice ! These types of misconceptions were not uncommon in tech at the time and the sector still remains far too dominated by white , middle-aged men . However , moving into financial services there have been more senior female role models , which has helped me to rethink my value and leadership role I can play .
How important is mentoring when it comes to achieving diversity , equity and inclusion in tech ? Seeing the change is one thing , but what women often need is more hands-on help to assist them in their climb up the career ladder .
14 October 2023