Joe Edwards, Technical Principal, and Daniel Waters, delivery principal at Softwire, share how to use DevOps to make your developers more productive. They discuss what they mean by productivity and DevOps, and why DevOps is particularly relevant for financial services.

To read the transcript, visit https://www.softwire.com/insights/how-to-use-devops-to-make-your-developers-more-productive

How to use DevOps to make your developers more productive

Zoe Cunningham is joined by Sophia Lin, senior sales manager, and Sasha Burgoyne, head of academy operations at TechSwitch to talk about how people of all backgrounds can approach career changing into technology successfully. See the full transcript and more at: https://www.softwire.com/insights/what-routes-into-technology-are-available-for-female-and-diverse-career-changers

What routes into technology are available for female and diverse career changers?

In our latest Digital Lighthouse episode, Zoe Cunningham is joined by Hywel Carver, founder of Skiller Whale. This organisation provides deep coaching for tech teams, believing that learning that is core to how an engineering team operates and should align with business priorities. In our conversation, Hywel discusses why Skiller Whale came about and how to make the most of any tech training for your team. Read the full transcript here: https://www.softwire.com/insights/skiller-whale-why-companies-need-a-different-strategy-for-training-their-developers/

Skiller Whale: Why companies need a different strategy for training their developers

In our latest Digital Lighthouse episode, Zoe Cunningham is joined by Jason Souloglou, founder and CEO of SeeChange Technologies, a world-leader in real-time AI powered recognition systems, with expertise in making complex, state of the art AI technology simple to deploy and scale.

Jason speaks about how their AI technology services excel within the retail sector to support loss prevention and health and safety compliance, where AI can go in the future and how it can support positive social change.

Read the transcript and find out more at: https://www.softwire.com/insights/seechange-harnessing-the-power-of-ai-to-drive-positive-social-change

SeeChange: Harnessing the power of AI to drive positive social change

Zoe Cunningham is joined by Aya Stead, software developer at Softwire to talk about neurodiversity in her role. She shares the ways she developed to look after her mental health, in the hope it can help other software engineers too. View the full transcript at: https://www.softwire.com/insights/navigating-neurodiversity-how-can-software-developers-support-their-mental-health-in-the-workplace/

Navigating neurodiversity: How can software developers support their mental health in the workplace?

Back in 2008, Herb Kim founded the Thinking Digital conference series. Little did he know that 15 years on, the event would still be going, having established itself as a popular fixture in the north-east tech calendar.

Herb joins Zoe Cunningham to talk about the importance of events, both for networking, and as powerful and serendipitous learning and development opportunities for anyone in the sector.

The discussion then moves on to tech leadership, with Herb explaining why he believes putting yourself at risk of genuine personal failure is one of the best ways to learn critical leadership traits.

Herb Kim – Why you need to risk failure to become a great leader

In our latest episode, Zoe Cunningham is joined by Tom Riley, Delivery Principal at Softwire.

Tom has overseen the successful delivery of numerous UK public sector digital projects, including the modernisation of the register to vote service, the cloud migration of the gender pay gap reporting service, and the replacement of the software underpinning the high-profile Feed-in-Tariff scheme.

In this wide-ranging chat with Zoe, he shares insights on how to keep abreast of a diverse portfolio of projects, how to ensure teams stay up-to-speed with the latest GDS and industry best practices, and why he sometimes prefers old-fashioned pen-and-paper, and face-to-face communication, over their modern digital alternatives.

Of course, no tech-related discussion at the moment would be complete without touching on artificial intelligence (AI), and Tom shares his thoughts on the opportunities and risks associated with AI in the unique context of government.

Getting it all done as a senior tech leader

In our latest Digital Lighthouse episode, Sarah Hale, Senior Director of Engineering at Unity Technology joins Zoe Cunningham to talk gaming, career paths, and the importance of clarity when leading a team.

Sarah reflects on how she’s needed to evolve as she’s worked her way up to an engineering leadership role, while still regularly drawing on the skills she learnt early in her career.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone in a technical or engineering role thinking about where they’d like to go next in their careers, and for engineering leaders looking to learn from someone in a similar position.

The things I didn't expect I would have to do as CTO

Using generative AI to improve CX and meet regulatory requirements in insurance

Insurance is a challenging market to be operating in these days. A perfect storm of the squeeze on household budgets, rising costs when handling claims, and new regulation, mean many insurers are struggling to stay afloat and remain competitive.

Rashed Younas is the insurance practice lead at The Dot Collective, which helps organisations make smarter use of their data. During his chat with Zoe Cunningham, Rashed shares some of the ways he’s seeing forward-thinking insurers use their data intelligently, to navigate these choppy waters.

From generative AI, to single view of the customer, he paints a (perhaps surprisingly) positive outlook for insurance companies.

Using generative AI to improve CX and meet regulatory requirements in insurance

If you’re not using microservices already, you’ve probably heard people raving about how amazing they are. If you’re tempted to dip your toes in the water, then this podcast with independent tech consultant, author, and former FT technical director for engineering enablement, Sarah Wells, is a must-listen.

During her chat with Zoe Cunningham, she talks about what organisations need to consider before diving into the microservices world (spoiler alert, it’s not just about tech), and the things you need to have in place before you take the plunge.

The discussion also covers situations where microservices may actually not be the most appropriate way of building software.

How to decide when you should (and shouldn’t) use microservices

Georgina Owens knows a thing or two about leading successful technology functions. Having held senior leadership roles in organisations across finance, telco and utilities, she now heads up the 300-person technology function at William Hill.

In her chat with Zoe Cunningham, she reflects on how you can successfully oversee teams at this scale, while instilling a culture that fosters creativity and innovation. There’s also a revealing chat about many of the unseen jobs a CTO must do to succeed.

Georgina Owens - How to lead a 300-strong technology team

In this episode of "The Digital Lighthouse," Zoe Cunningham welcomes Thomas Harris from MasterCard, delving into the transformative currents of digital innovation. 

Thomas shares the strategic intricacies of MasterCard's journey, and the broader impact on global markets, in a conversation that lights the way through the complex landscape of digital transformation, offering invaluable insights on navigating change with agility and foresight.

Thomas Harris on navigating digital transformation: Insights from MasterCard's journey

In this enlightening episode of the Digital Lighthouse, we sit down with Denholm Hesse, Chief Data Officer at BDO. 

With a rich background spanning over a decade in data management, including pioneering roles at Deloitte and Prudential, Denholm brings unparalleled insights into leveraging data as a strategic asset. 

Our conversation dives into the evolving role of data governance, the innovative concept of a data marketplace, and the critical importance of data quality and trust in driving business efficiency. 

Join us as Denholm shares his visionary approach to harnessing data's potential in turbulent times, illuminating the path for businesses aiming to thrive in the information economy.

Data as an Asset: Navigating the Future with BDO's Chief Data Officer, Denholm Hesse

In this special episode of The Digital Lighthouse, we are thrilled to host Rajani Rao, a luminary in the tech industry and a staunch advocate for the role of women in technology. 

As a principal technologist at Aveva and director of Women Who Code, Rajani shares her inspiring journey and the transformative work her organization does to break barriers for women in tech. Through her story, we explore the importance of diversity for innovation, the power of challenging assumptions, and how Women Who Code is shaping the future of technology by empowering women with the skills and confidence to succeed. 

Join us as we celebrate the achievements and contributions of women in technology, and shine a light on the path to a more inclusive and innovative future.

Empowering Innovation: Women Who Code with Rajani Rao

In this episode of The Digital Lighthouse, Zoe Cunningham is joined by Glen McCracken, the Head of Data and Analytics at ION, a leading firm in automation solutions for the financial sector. 

With a rich background in corporate finance and applied statistics, Glen delves into the pivotal role of data analytics in shaping business strategies and enhancing operational efficiency. His unique perspective, born from years of experience and a passion for innovation, offers invaluable insights into harnessing technology for better decision-making.

Data-Driven Decision Making with ION's Glen McCracken

In this episode of The Digital Lighthouse, Zoe Cunningham is joined by Monal Sangvhi, an experienced technology leader in investment banking technology, 

Adept a leading high-performing, cross-functional teams—most recently at Tray.ai—Monal shares her invaluable insights on how highly-regulated organisations can innovate safely.

In this episode, Monal explains how:

The importance of encouraging risk 
Giving teams the freedom to embrace innovation initiatives
How agility doesn’t mean “fragility”
Practical approaches to organising your teams

Balancing innovation and compliance with Monal Sangvhi

Modernising legacy software and infrastructure is hard. Really hard.

Nobody wants to be lumbered in a clunky inefficient system. But “slaying the monolith” is easier said than done. 

Just ask Anthony Nolan. Increasingly hampered by its existing technology, the stem cell transplant charity was struggling to iterate and facing increasingly high levels of friction.

So what do you do? Build a totally new piece of technology? Or rewire the existing system? Turns out, it’s a bit of both. 

In our latest episode, Softwire’s Ben Below details how the organisation successfully embarked on a modernisation journey.

How Anthony Nolan modernised its legacy infrastructure

User research is the linchpin behind the core services we rely on in every part of our lives.

A fundamental part of the work is inclusive design (also known as universal design) to ensure all products and services work for everybody - regardless of age, ability or circumstance.

In our latest episode of The Digital Lighthouse, Softwire’s Research Principal, Callum Bates, delves into all the moving pieces that ensure no stone is left unturned when creating exceptional experiences for everyone.

The role of inclusive design in government services

It can sometimes feel like people are just born to network, schmooze and hold court. 

For others, it’s this big, forced, uncomfortable thing that they’d happily avoid forever - especially when some people dominate the room.

It doesn’t have to be that way - nor should it be. 

Because, at its heart, networking is about connection and community. And everyone deserves the opportunity to get involved, get value, and feel part of something.

In our latest episode, Helen Jackson (Principal Technical Consultant) and Laura Phillips (Delivery Director), share their experiences and provide sage advice on how you can rethink and reapproach networking:

- Key ways to make networking more inclusive at events
- How to apply the C-shape (Pac-Man technique)
- Other ways to network outside of events
- Top tips for being a better networker 




How to get better at networking

In this episode of Softwire Tech Talks, host Zoe Cunningham is joined by Nick Bates, COO of CTO Craft, and Yemi Olegbaiye, Client Portfolio Director at Softwire. Together, they discuss the importance of building strong tech leadership communities, navigating digital transformation, and fostering meaningful connections in the technology sector.

Building strong tech leadership networks in the Age of AI

In this episode of The Digital Lighthouse, host Zoe Cunningham explores the challenges and opportunities for women career switchers in tech with Sasha Burgoyne and Esme Chant from Softwire.

Join them as they discuss:
Why women career switchers need additional support in tech
Creating supportive workplace environments for career switchers
The value career switchers bring to tech organisations
The structure and benefits of the TechSwitch program

About Guests

Sasha Burgoyne is the co-founder of TechSwitch, an award-winning software development training programme for career switches looking to move into tech, as well as people looking to return to the workplace. She is also Head of Academy at Softwire which delivers training in DevOps and software development and has been part of Softwire’s DEI Working Group since its inception. 

Esme Chant is the D&I Lead and a People Advisor at Softwire. She has played a key role in enhancing inclusivity within the company by implementing practical solutions, such as neurodiversity awareness training, facilitating reasonable adjustments, and creating a D&I calendar to ensure that various identities are recognised and celebrated. 

Episode Highlights:
[00:00:01] Introduction and welcome
[00:00:32] Esme's background and DE&I role
[00:00:48] Sasha's role in TechSwitch program
[00:01:11] Discussion on supporting women career switchers
[00:02:30] Overview of TechSwitch program
[00:06:49] Career switchers' value in the workplace
[00:08:38] Softwire's workplace support initiatives
[00:10:42] LevelUp program details
[00:16:11] How to prepare for TechSwitch
[00:17:30] TechSwitch application process

Resources:
TechSwitch- www.techswitch.co.uk
Softwire - https://www.softwire.com/
Codecademy - https://www.codecademy.com/
Code Wars - https://www.codewars.com/

Supporting women career switchers in tech

In this episode of The Digital Lighthouse, host Zoe Cunningham is joined by Sasha Burgoyne, Head of Academy Operations, and Esme Chant, DE&I Lead at Softwire. Together, they discuss the importance of creating inclusive workplaces for employees with disabilities, sharing personal experiences and practical strategies for both employers and employees.

Building workplace inclusivity for people with disabilities

In this episode of The Digital Lighthouse - The Softwire Podcast, host Zoe Cunningham is joined by Richard G Brown, Founding CTO and Advisor to the CEO at R3. Together, they explore the practical applications of enterprise blockchain, digital currencies, and confidential computing. From scaling high-performance tech teams to navigating emerging technologies, Richard shares invaluable insights on how businesses can evaluate and integrate blockchain solutions for maximum value.

Digital privacy, blockchain and the future of finance with Richard G Brown

In this episode of The Digital Lighthouse, host Zoe Cunningham is joined by Kamales Lardi, CEO at Lardi & Partner Consulting, to discuss The Brain Code, how leaders can use neuroscience to break through resistance, foster trust, and build a truly human-centric approach to digital transformation.

How neuroscience can make or break your digital transformation journey

In this episode of The Digital Lighthouse,, host Zoe Cunningham is joined by Shaukat Ali Khan, Executive Chief Digital and Information Officer (CDIO) at NHS, to explore the future of digital healthcare, including the importance of leveraging AI in healthcare, balancing innovation with governance, and creating patient-centric digital transformations.

How the NHS is driving patient-centric digital transformation

In this episode of The Digital Lighthouse - The Software Podcast, host Zoe Cunningham is joined by Simon Wardley, Owner of Swardley Maps, to share how business leaders can better navigate digital transformation through visual mapping techniques.

Understanding your economic and technology landscape with Wardley Mapping

In this episode of The Digital Lighthouse - The Software Podcast, host Zoe Cunningham is joined by Ann-Marie Gallacher, Chief Information Officer at NHS 24 Scotland, to explore how AI and digital transformation are revolutionizing healthcare delivery while maintaining clinical safety and patient care standards.

Inside the AI-Driven Revolution at NHS 24 with Ann-Marie Gallacher

Research shows that 68% of IT projects fail due to poor project management. In this episode Zoe Cunningham shares some insight into the key factors for project success, and what to do when it all goes wrong. Zoe is joined by the general manager for the Softwire Manchester office, Tom Ward, and Softwire's Sales and Marketing director, Andy Smart.

Hosted by Zoe Cunningham
with Andy Smart and Tom Ward

Project Management

People are increasingly interacting with tools directly through their own portable devices, bringing usability to the forefront of developers work. In this episode Zoe Cunningham shares some insight into the importance of understanding not only the end user, but also how the software can reflect that users needs throughout the whole design process. Zoe is joined by Ruth Swift-Wood, Lead User Researcher, and Tim Harwood, head of Design and UX.

Hosted by Zoe Cunningham
with Ruth Swiftwood and Tim Harwood

User Experience

Changing careers is often a daunting process, and rarely talked about. In this episode, Zoe Cunningham is joined by Software Developers, Lorraine Phillips, and Julian Ng to discuss what it's like changing careers to software development, and where to start.

Hosted by Zoe Cunningham
with Lorraine Phillips and Julian Ng

Career Change

Knowing that you have data and can use it is one thing, but how do you get the best from it? In this episode, Softwire Head of Consulting and director, Jonathon Artus, and Technical Lead, Rob Owen, share some insights into how you should approach data before delving into using it for machine learning and other functions. Read the full transcript here: https://www.softwire.com/insights/data-engineering/

What is Data Engineering and how can it help your business?

The Digital Lighthouse is a podcast for CTOs and other tech leaders looking to navigate their organisation through endless disruption and turbulence. Packed full of real life stories and insights, this podcast serves as your guiding light - wherever you are in your journey and whatever challenges you face.

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