I came to Global Switch from a ‘non-traditional’ real estate background – hotels and airports, mainly – so data centres appealed as a fast-growing and dynamic area where I could still draw on my real estate experience. It has been a great mix of the known and the unknown.
Just as I joined Global Switch the COVID-19 pandemic was just starting. The data centre industry which had undergone a period of sustained growth then saw further acceleration as hyperscale companies looked to quickly scale up further to address demand. I have certainly seen the data centre industry’s pace of change mirrored in my own progression. After barely a year as an Analyst, I was promoted to Senior Analyst, putting me much closer to the commercial frontline. And I recently got the chance to move into my current Commercial Manager role, where I am getting more involved in the strategy side of things. So it has been a steep learning curve, but it has also been really rewarding to take on so much responsibility in a short space of time.
The support you get here definitely makes it easier to jump to the next level or the bigger job. My boss has mentored me quite closely from the start, making sure I was being exposed to more and more parts of the commercial process. Things like including me at meetings with the legal team and liaising with our global data centres, for example. The day when I was asked to send a proposal direct to the CEO was a big highlight for me, and presenting to the Executive Committee for the first time was a recent landmark moment. The pressure is greater – you have to really do your homework and be ready to stand behind your work – but I love being so involved in the major deals that end up at the highest levels of the business.
The size of Global Switch and the culture means that you get the chance to grow with your experience – there is a real sense of momentum where you are always progressing. For example, there is the size and type of deals that are crossing my desk. Six months ago handling the few hundred kilowatts deals used to be a major contract for me, but I now regularly find myself handling deals for several megawatts and involved in projects where major investment is at stake.
I have loved hockey since my days growing up in Australia where I ended up playing in the national league. I was keen to carry that on when I got to London, so I joined Barnes Hockey Club. I play for the Ladies 1st team who train a couple of times a week, with matches at the weekends, so it has become a big part of life outside of the office. I have also enjoyed being involved with the club’s junior development, mixed team and social aspects since joining. Hockey has taught me a huge amount about being a team player – I get a lot out of putting in the time and working with others to get results. There are lessons I have definitely taken into the workplace.
Looking ahead, Global Switch is continuing to expand its global portfolio and so there are sure to be exciting things around the corner. I am not sure exactly what that will mean for me, but I do know that whatever and wherever the opportunities are, I will be encouraged to get out there and grab them.
