My journey into IT wasn’t exactly planned. My father was a structural engineer, and our house was always full of technical gadgetry, so my first experiences with both hardware and software came early. I planned to become a teacher, but life led me to West London and into the world of commercial software development, where a career in IT began to take shape.
Beginning my DVLA journey
After many years working away from home, I felt drawn to Swansea. So, when the opportunity came to join DVLA, the chance to make a meaningful impact combined with a 20-minute commute was simply too good to pass up.
From the outset, I was struck by the can-do attitude of the teams. The transition from a commercial environment to the Civil Service came with its own set of challenges. We’ve tackled some complex matters, including the historic infrastructure proliferation and the implementation of the Government Digital & Data pay framework initiatives.
I began in Service Management and soon took on the responsibility of leading DVLA’s infrastructure community. It was a natural progression that allowed me to bring experience while learning the nuances of public sector delivery.
My career evolution
My career has never followed a rigid five-year plan; I’ve always embraced diverse opportunities. I’ve led organisation-wide approaches to data modelling, explored cryptography in the defence sector, and gained insights into regulatory frameworks in finance and health.
Each project has added a new layer to my understanding and broadened my perspective. Even now, every Infrastructure and Projects Authority (IPA) or National Infrastructure and Service Transformation Authority (NISTA) review is an opportunity to stretch, reflect, and improve.
Initially drawn to IT by my love of technology, I’ve come to appreciate the critical importance of soft skills. Creating a safe space for teams to thrive, encouraging open dialogue, and fostering a culture of continuous improvement are just as vital as technical know-how. When challenges arise, I value iteration over perfection.
There hasn’t been an “aha” moment that shaped my approach, rather, it’s been a journey of lifelong learning. I often reflect on the idea of “eggs and eggcups” – people and roles don’t always fit perfectly, and that’s okay. As a leader, your job is to serve your team, not the other way around.
A day in my role
No two days are ever the same, but there’s a rhythm to the work that keeps things both structured and dynamic. Much of my day revolves around people and process, whether that’s handling admin tasks, reviewing reports, or identifying areas for improvement.
A significant part of my role is about leading and supporting others. I work closely with our apprentices, helping to guide their development and ensure they have the foundations they need to thrive. I’m also deeply involved in shaping our technology roadmap, anticipating future needs and laying the groundwork for what’s next.
Meetings are a constant, but they’re opportunities to help, support, and steer. Whether it’s offering direction, removing blockers, or simply listening, collaboration is at the heart of everything I do.
One of the most rewarding aspects of my role is the opportunity to influence beyond the immediate team. I get to encourage others, contribute to cross-departmental strategies, and shape policy and delivery at a broader level.
Everything I do connects back to DVLA’s Digital and Technology mission: accelerating our digital transformation to build an agile technology and services platform. It’s about enabling the organisation to respond quickly to changing needs, both for our customers and colleagues.
Looking ahead
Looking to the future, my focus is on delivering against our technology and legacy roadmaps, continuing to support our apprentices, and staying actively involved in IPA and NISTA reviews. These areas not only align with DVLA’s strategic goals but keep me engaged and constantly learning.
In terms of technology, I’m keeping a close eye on developments in AI. While there are still challenges to overcome, I’m confident we’ll soon see practical applications that help us navigate complexity more effectively
And then there’s quantum computing. My background in physics keeps me fascinated by the intersection of classical and quantum models. It’s an exciting time to be in tech, and I’m looking forward to what’s next.
Outside of work, I’m learning Welsh (my daughter is in school and picking it up fast!) and brushing up on my chess game to keep up with both my son and daughter.
My advice for others
If you’re considering a career in this field, or even just curious, my advice is simple: explore, learn, and enjoy. There’s no single path to success, and the journey is often more important than the destination.
One common misconception is that we’re all just “geeks” buried in legacy systems. While we do love our tech, we’re also deeply engaged with modern tools, methodologies, and innovations. The work we do is current, relevant, and constantly evolving.
I don’t have a list of recommended resources or a specific learning path to follow. Instead, I’d say: do what you love, and love what you do. Passion and curiosity will take you further than any textbook ever could.
We welcome people from all backgrounds – technical, strategic, creative, or analytical – there’s a place for you here. The diversity of thought and experience is what makes our teams strong.
