Careers in technology don’t always begin with a clear plan, and often, they’re shaped by curiosity, problem-solving, and the people who challenge us to grow. In this month’s Precisely Women in Technology (PWIT) feature, we share a story that reflects how asking questions, taking risks, and learning to trust your voice can lead to unexpected and rewarding paths in tech. Continue reading to learn more about Sara Thomas, Senior HR Business Consultant, and her experience in the tech industry over the last 37 years.
Why did you choose to pursue a career in technology?
I didn’t intentionally set out to build a career in technology. After graduating with a degree in Psychology, I knew I wanted to pursue a role in Human Resources and was fortunate to begin my career in a trainee HR position within a telecommunications company. From there, I have intentionally remained in the technology sector, working with organizations such as Fujitsu, Business Objects, MapInfo, Pitney Bowes Software, and Precisely. I’m drawn to the fast‑paced, ever-evolving nature of the industry and value the opportunity it provides to collaborate with exceptionally talented professionals.
Who has been your greatest professional mentor? What’s one thing you have learned from them?
Throughout my career, I have had the privilege of working with many exceptional managers and leaders. However, my first manager, Teresa Frost, has been the most influential mentor in my professional journey. She invested significantly in my development early on, ensuring I had opportunities to take on stretch assignments and gain exposure to all areas of HR. The most valuable lessons she taught me were to confidently acknowledge my own contributions – using “I” when I had earned the accomplishment – and to prioritize building a strong professional network within the HR community to continually learn and grow.
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What’s the biggest risk you took in your career? What was the reward?
Moving from Fujitsu to Business Objects was the biggest risk of my career. I left an established HR team to become the first and only HR professional in the UK organization. This shift gave me the opportunity to truly make an impact and demonstrate to managers – many of whom weren’t convinced they needed HR – that I could add value without introducing unnecessary policies or processes. The reward for taking that risk was being promoted to the leadership team, which gave me deeper insight into the business and enabled me to partner with the wider organization more effectively.
As a woman, what challenges have you faced in the technology industry? How have you overcome them?
My challenges as a woman are not unique to the technology industry but are shared by many working mothers. Balancing a fast‑paced role while raising a family can be incredibly difficult, and the saying “it takes a village” certainly resonates. Early on in my career, I had a manager who would schedule meetings early in the morning at his club, miles away from the office. Eventually, I had to speak up and explain how challenging this was for me – and for others with nursery or school drop‑off responsibilities. Once I had the courage to raise this issue, the meetings were moved back to the office and it became easier to manage.
What’s the best advice you’ve ever been given? How do you apply it to your personal and professional life?
Be clear and kind. It’s easy to soften a difficult message, but over‑sugar‑coating only confuses things. Being honest while staying calm and respectful is far more helpful. This advice has guided me both at work – especially when coaching others – and in my personal life.
As a successful woman in technology, what’s one thing you do to pay it forward and advocate for other women in the field?
I am lucky in my career that I have been able to support and champion women at earlier stages of their careers. I also try to lead by example. Being open about the realities of balancing career and family, sharing the lessons I’ve learned, and being honest about the moments that were difficult, helps others see that success doesn’t have to look perfect.
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