Our Head of Technology, Emma, has officially completed her Master’s Degree as a Digital Technology Solutions Specialist (Data Analytics) and to top it off, she passed with a Distinction! An incredibly impressive achievement.
Balancing a demanding leadership role with high-level postgraduate study is no easy task. We sat down with Emma to hear about her journey studying at Sheffield Hallam University, how data is reshaping our industry, and what she plans to do with all her newfound free time.
How does it feel to finally have this achievement under your belt?
“I feel a huge sense of relief and pride. A lot of work has gone into the course, with so many new skills learnt. Now the course is over, I can look back and be proud that the effort I put in has paid off.”
If you could go back to day one of the course and give yourself one piece of advice, what would it be?
“Plan, plan, plan. Always get ahead where possible as you never know what will come up and present as hurdles along the way. It’s important to have plan A, B & C.”
Your specialisation was in Data Analytics. How do you see these cutting-edge concepts shaping the future of recruitment?
“Given the legislative challenges coming up, it is as important now more than ever to ensure the business is best placed to react. To do this, we truly need to understand the ever-changing market, so planning and forecasting will be critical to remaining financially strong and performing well for our customers. Machine learning modelling will play a critical part in this, which, combined with AI technologies, will produce game-changing efficiencies.”
How did the Mach team help you manage your workload during the toughest parts of the course?
“A lot of support from a number of people. Huge shout out to Katie, Adam, John, and Lesley for holding down the fort, giving me the space, and supporting me along the way.”
Did you develop any specific routines or productivity hacks to manage studying alongside a full-time job?
“Dedicated time locked away for university during the working week was critical. Putting in the extra effort outside of work helped to ensure I pushed for completion to the highest standard I could. You really have to put your mind and time to it, which was not easy at all times along the way.”
When you had a tough day of both working and studying, what was your favourite way to switch off?
“Either gaming with my son on the PlayStation, or doing a long hike with the dogs was the best way for me to switch off.”
Now that you have your evenings and weekends back, what activities are you excited to pick back up?
“Getting back to travelling or mountain hiking. I’m a huge fan of driving through Europe, so will hopefully be spending more of my weekends abroad. Bring on the French Alps!”
How are you planning to celebrate this massive achievement?
“A gathering with my family and friends to celebrate, followed by a trip to Paris! Can’t wait!”
Connect with Emma
Want to congratulate Emma on her incredible achievement or discuss the future of data analytics and technology in recruitment? Connect with Emma on LinkedIn.