The Aspire Guide - Flipbook - Page 53
Alternatively, there are many roles available within the technology sector for those interested in other
disciplines, such as design, media, sales, marketing, and communications. All of these roles are very
important for technology companies and contribute to the products and services that affect the lives of
billions of people around the globe:
There are innumerable benefits to working in the technology sector. One such benefit is the wide range of
job types and careers available, with technology companies often creating interesting new roles to push
innovation in the sector. Tech companies tend to place great emphasis on their employee experience,
meaning that there is a big focus on unleashing individual potential, investment in training, creating a
positive working environment, and providing challenging work assignments.
Technology companies are some of the highest-paying employers, providing competitive salaries and
benefits, even at graduate and entry level. Being yourself at work is encouraged, you will often meet
people from different backgrounds, countries of origin and individual styles that work together as one
team. Many people who work in the technology industry find the environment to be uplifting, collaborative
and fun! People come from all over the world to work in the UK’s tech industry and, over the last 15 years,
great improvements have been made to increase female representation within the sector.
What they’re looking for:
It is a misconception that having a STEM qualification is essential to working and excelling in the
technology sector. Gaining sought-after skills like problem-solving, collaboration and adapting well to
the constantly evolving technology landscape are key to being successful in applications, as well as
demonstrating genuine passion and interest in the sector.
Salary expectations:
Typical graduate salary: £24,000-£50,000
Potential salary (after five years experience): £45,000-£125,000
Top earners (10-15 years experience): £150,000-£500,000+
Case Study: Susan Wojcicki, CEO of YouTube
Susan Wojcicki is the CEO of YouTube, and has maintained a highly
successful career in the technology sector for over 20 years.
She originally joined Google as a Marketing Manager in 1999 and has held
a number of roles at the company over the years, such as being a Product
Manager for Google AdSense. Susan later progressed to become Google’s
Senior Vice President of Advertising & Commerce. She oversaw Google’s
acquisition of YouTube in 2006, and has held the CEO position since 2014.
Despite her huge achievements in the technology sector, Susan did not
study a technology-related degree at university. She studied History and
Literature at Harvard University and later went on to secure postgraduate degrees in Economics. Her
interest in technology was sparked after she took an introductory Computer Science class, which led to
her taking up a marketing position at computer-chip maker Intel, signalling the start of a long career in
the technology industry.
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