Insight
In our second post for International Women’s Day, we’re continuing with our series of interviews a with women across our organisation, asking them to share their career journey, celebrate their achievements and give us an insight into their roles and experiences at Thinventory.
If you haven’t read the first piece yet, please click here
In this piece we’re focusing on tech and account management speaking to Suky Rana, Product Manager for Konnect, and Arpita Parmar, Account Development Manager.
Tell us a bit about yourself
Suky: I’ve worked at Thinventory for almost three years now. Originally from Birmingham, I now call Northamptonshire home, where I live with my husband, two daughters (11 and 13), and our 1yr old mischievous Maltese-Poodle, Bailey. In my spare time I enjoy watching movies, long walks, family board games and boxing.
Arpita: I’m married with two children, a 7-year-old daughter called Dhita and a 3-year-old son called Diyon aged 3. In my spare time I like to keep fit and train. I’m originally from Coventry but now live in Leeds.
Share your career journey so far
Suky: I have always worked in the technology sector, focussing on solutions that either solve customer problems or provide innovative experiences and have successfully transferred my skillset across industries. This is my first role in the logistics sector, having previously worked in the public sector, NHS, education, B2B, retail and the energy sector.
I have worked for large organisations that operate across UK and globally, so I understand that, communications is key and being able to communicate effectively with diverse teams is a huge part of this role.
My day involves a mixture of strategic thinking, collabrating with cross-functional teams, problem solving and keeping things moving forwards. I am responsible for prioritising feature development, continuous improvement of my product whilst ensuring it meets customers needs and aligns with business objectives.
I am lucky to be working with an innovative development team to solve real life customer problems, by using inventory storage solutions and technology such as RFID. Recently, I took on a new role as a Mental Health First Aider at the company, which has provided me with the opportunity to connect with colleagues across different departments on a non-technology level and building personable relationships.
Arpita: I’ve worked in the logistics industry since I left university in 2005. The company I worked for was acquired by ByBox, now Thinventory. During my career I have always worked in customer facing, account management roles.
In my current role as an account development manager I manage one of our top 5 customers and my job is to maintain good customer relationships, grow that customer, selling new solutions, innovations and new technology.
How would you describe working at Thinventory?
Suky: Working at Thinventory is great as it provides lots of opportunities to work with both business and technical teams across various geographies including Europe, Middle East and the US. Working with a diverse set of colleagues and clients requires flexibility and adaptability.
We work remotely and work hard to create a positive and collaborative environment and a true sense of belonging. At Thinventory, I feel like I can be myself. I’m confident in my skills and abilities but I have the safety and freedom to ask questions, challenge ideas, and contribute to the business.
Arpita: The role is challenging, in a good way! We have a big team, and I know that there is always someone on hand if I need help. Everyone’s work ethic is great, and my line manager is very supportive. You see that positive culture throughout the organisation.
I’ve been in the logistics sector since 2005. When I first joined it was very male dominated, even the customers were all male, you would rarely see a female. I feel like there has been a shift since then and now, my team is 70% women, 30% men.
What is your proudest achievement?
Suky: I’m incredibly proud to have raised two confident, determined and hardworking daughters. I just hope that my work ethic and attitude to life continues to have a positive influence on them and that they feel they can achieve anything they put their mind to and feel like they belong and deserve a place in whatever role that interests them.
Arpita: My proudest achievements are my children. I had a 30-hour labour with my daughter and a 30-minute labour with my son, to bring them both into the world safe and well makes me proud.
Which women inspire you the most?
Suky: My sister, who has 2 sons and has in recent years started her own business (she is incredibly inspiring) whilst working at a television company and keen gym goer. She is a focussed, passionate and a positive person who inspires me to do more all the time.
Arpita: All women inspire me. I see so many examples of strength on a daily basis. From looking after children, building careers, looking after the home- and juggling it all!
What is the most important piece of advice you have been given?
Suky: Make sure you validate assumptions, asking questions and maintaining clear communication as people can forget, change their minds or just mean something different to what was originally said.
Arpita: To do my best and never give up, I apply this to both my personal life and my career. Although there are moments when I doubt myself and my abilities, I continually remind myself of this commitment.
Have you experienced challenges in your career and how have you overcome these?
Suky: Working in a predominantly male-dominated environment while feeling like you belong and can be open and honest. This can intensify when moving into a new industry and learning new things. To overcome this, I remind myself of my strengths and skills and recognize that others may feel the same way too. Most importantly I believe in myself and maintain confidence. I focus on enhancing my understanding of the products and continuously seek to improve. I also remind myself not to be afraid to ask questions and to build positive relationships, even when that feels difficult.
How can companies in technology / logistics encourage more females into the business?
Suky: Incorporating flexible working arrangements into the job description is essential – a balanced flexible working arrangement will allow people to really understand what’s important to them inside and outside of work. Mentorship programs would also be valuable, offering a go-to resource for advice and guidance as it can be overwhelming for some whilst they are building their confidence. Additionally, highlighting female-led success stories within the business can help attract a wider external audience.
Creating networks for women in tech and logistics is key, providing spaces where we can connect, share advice, and expand our networks. These are important opportunities to foster growth and support within the industry.
Arpita: Thinventory has a great culture and working policies that has allowed the business to encourage women into the business organically. We have a very supportive HR team that supports and drives diversity and inclusion. There is always room to grow and do more, but I feel like we are on the right track.