Holly Armitage

On paper I’m referred to as a strategist but I’ve been referred to as a ‘professional opportunist’, which really resonates with me. I spot opportunities, untangle the knottiest of problems, and then create a plan to take advantage, shepherding resources to make the biggest bang possible.

It’s my role to help organisations get excited by technology, and help them understand and explain to everyone – their people, their customers, and their shareholders – why technology truly matters for them.

I have been fortunate to work for a number of organisations, where I have gained extensive hands on experience of technology and data strategy development in both the private and public sectors. Before joining BAE Systems, I worked in the Civil Service where I learnt first hand the importance and power of being able to interpret strategic priorities into direction and delivery, whilst translating technical information into straightforward and easy to understand concepts.

When I was growing up I never saw myself working in technology. I studied economics at university, and whilst I knew I wanted to work in and around science and technology, I couldn’t have imagined doing big thinking and making big choices about technology. It never even crossed my mind! As time went on, and technology advanced exponentially, I started to realise that data was changing the world. This was exciting… and scary at the same time.

Channelling this transformative power and ensuring that it has a positive – not nefarious – impact was what first drew me to into this space, and it’s why I love what I do.