Softwire TechTalks

Latest Episodes:

Building workplace inclusivity for people with disabilities Feb 12, 2025

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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.

Supporting women career switchers in tech Jan 09, 2025

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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/

Building strong tech leadership networks in the Age of AI Dec 12, 2024

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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.

How to get better at networking Nov 28, 2024

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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

The role of inclusive design in government services Nov 26, 2024

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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.

How Anthony Nolan modernised its legacy infrastructure Sep 30, 2024

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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.

Balancing innovation and compliance with Monal Sangvhi Aug 20, 2024

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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

Data-Driven Decision Making with ION's Glen McCracken Mar 21, 2024

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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 as an Asset: Navigating the Future with BDO's Chief Data Officer, Denholm Hesse Mar 12, 2024

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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.

Empowering Innovation: Women Who Code with Rajani Rao Mar 06, 2024

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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.

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