Before joining Everything Tech, Donna Scott’s last job had been eight years earlier – as a police officer. Here she was more used to handling revellers who needed a hand getting home safely after a night out than a purchases and sales ledger.
After leaving the police, Donna took time off to raise her children and while doing so undertook an AAT accounting qualification. Then in November 2019 she joined Everything Tech as an accounts administrator.
She said: “After leaving school, I worked in an office however, I decided to change careers and joined the police. I spent four years as an officer but when I fell pregnant, I took the opportunity to take some time off work to raise my children.
“It was scary returning to work after eight years as a stay at home parent, however, I think for my mental wellbeing I needed to get back into work and be something other than ‘mum’.
“Although I haven’t worked in tech before, I’m really glad I seized the opportunity as Everything Tech is one of the best companies I’ve worked for.”
While Donna has enjoyed getting back into work, there have been challenges as she got to grips with her new role, especially as it was her first time working in the tech industry.
Donna explained: “The thing I struggled with most was all the software. There’s so many products and it took me a while to get used to the variety on offer. I was forever asking questions in the first year.”
As a result of the pandemic, Donna also began working from home just a few months after joining.
“Working from home when the kids were off school wasn’t easy. It did sometimes feel like the worst possible time to have gone back to work.”
Despite the challenges though and thanks to the support of Everything Tech, Donna has been able to thrive, something she’s extremely proud of.
“I think a lot of people were concerned I wouldn’t be able to manage it all between working and raising kids. However, Everything Tech has worked around me, enabling me to work the hours that fit around my family.
“I love being back in the office now as well. I love the conversations and getting the chance to take your eyes off the screen for five minutes. You really get that sense of community.”
While the tech industry is generally seen as being male dominated, Donna has seen a lot change, even in her short time in the business.
“When I started there was only three women including myself now it’s more 60/40. We’re taking over!”
