Welcome to the Women in Data Podcast, where every other week your host, Karen Jean-Francois interviews some of the most inspiring women working in data. Through...
Ep.129 Breaking Barriers:Skills and Strategies for Data Career Growth
In this episode of the Women in Data podcast hosted by Cecilia, Manca Vitorino shares her journey from journalism to a data leadership role at ICIS, part of LexisNexis. Initially a markets reporter, Manca's exposure to data-driven journalism led her to identify automation and data visualization opportunities, sparking her transition into data.
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She discusses how skills from journalism—investigating, verifying, and storytelling with data—are directly transferable to data analysis. Manca emphasizes the importance of solving problems and articulating solutions for career growth, rather than just seeking out job titles. She also highlights the growing need for data literacy across all industries.
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Reflecting on her own experience, Manca talks about the challenges of moving into a technical role, managing imposter syndrome, and leveraging her communication skills to excel. This inspiring episode encourages listeners to explore how their existing skills can open doors to data-driven careers.
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Ep.128 Personal Branding for Data Professionals: Actionable Strategies to Grow Your Visibility
What does it take to build a personal brand that truly stands out? Â
In this episode, Karen dives into the world of personal branding with two inspiring guests, each offering unique perspectives and strategies:Â
Robin Sutara, Chief Data and Strategy Officer at Databricks, who shares her journey from being behind the scenes to building her personal brand and being a visible thought leader. Robin emphasises the importance of consistency and overcoming imposter syndrome when sharing expertise online, especially on platforms like LinkedIn. She also shares how she makes time for content creation and advocating for opportunities to present work.Â
Olivia Arnold, Communications Director for Women in Data, who provides actionable strategies and advice for building your personal brand online. Livi stresses the importance of understanding your motivations and goals before sharing content. She breaks down how to engage your audience effectively, structure compelling content, and align your online persona with your offline presence. From writing in your authentic voice to analyzing what resonates with your audience, she offers practical advice to help you build connections and grow your visibility.Â
Listen to this episode for actionable tips to help grow your visibility and excel in the data community!Â
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Ep.127 Data Job Search Hacks: How to Land Your Dream Role
More often than not, we start looking for a new job when it’s already too late. We’re unhappy in our current role, and the rush to apply for anything we find online can lead to dissatisfaction down the line.Â
In this episode, Karen and Cecilia explore a more strategic job search process for data professionals.Â
From defining your ideal role to navigating the complexities of applications, they share strategies that will set you up for success. Whether you’re starting your search or looking to optimize your approach, this episode provides actionable insights.Â
Tune in for tips on how to stand out in the data job market, build your network, and maintain your mental health throughout the process.Â
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38:09
Ep.126 Karen’s Recipe for Bold Career Decisions and Thriving in Data
What does it take to find your space and thrive in the data industry?Â
For the last episode of 2024, Lizzie Harris steps into the hosting seat to interview Karen Jean Francois in front of a live audience at Kingfisher. Over the past two years, Karen has made courageous career decisions—voluntarily taking redundancy, leaving a job that wasn’t right for her without having another lined up, and ultimately joining B&Q as a Data Product Manager in a role that stretches her beyond her comfort zone.Â
In this candid conversation, Karen shares insights on:Â
The emotional and practical side of making bold career moves—and lessons learnedÂ
How networking and relationships can supercharge your data careerÂ
Breaking down misconceptions about what it means to work in dataÂ
Tips for finding mentors and being an ally in the data spaceÂ
The journey of starting and hosting a podcast for women in dataÂ
With audience Q&A and real-world advice, this episode is packed with inspiration for anyone navigating their path in the data world. Don’t miss it!Â
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Bringing Gender Parity to the Data Industry: Celebrating Women in Data's 10 Years Anniversary
As a recruitment leader, Roisin McCarthy noticed that her team was placing less and less women in data related roles year on year. She kept hearing stories of women being passed over for promotion. So she set on a mission to bring gender parity in the data industry. 10 years later, Women in Data has become a powerful force, advocating for women and creating spaces where they can excel. In this episode, Roisin raconts her inspiring journey, highlights key milestones, from representing the community at influential policy discussions to growing retention rates among senior female leaders. While there’s been progress, with women now holding 19% of top data roles, challenges remain, especially in reducing talent loss and bridging the gender pay gap. Roisin’s vision is clear: a future where gender parity is the norm, and where Women in Data continues to empower every woman in the field.Â
Welcome to the Women in Data Podcast, where every other week your host, Karen Jean-Francois interviews some of the most inspiring women working in data. Through each episode, they share their invaluable experience and knowledge. Leaving no stone unturned, the WiD Podcast series will provide you with information on the use of data in various industries, plus helpful tips for career development. More importantly, it will enable you to become the data professional you want to be.