Di Spindley
Head of Delivery, Currys
One woman shares her journey from the media sector to a technology-focused role, highlighting the transformative potential for women in tech and the pivotal role of diversity and inclusion practices.
From a career spanning various media positions to a key leadership role at Currys, Di Spindley, Head of Delivery, discusses her desire to future-proof her career amidst the rise of online shopping and technological advancements. “What attracted me to a role in technology was the breadth of opportunity,” she explains.
Innovating customer experiences
Spindley has gone on to spearhead significant transformation initiatives, including ‘Shoplive’ a project implemented during Covid-19 lockdowns to allow customers the opportunity to video call with a tech expert while they shop. “For the customer to have that connection in store from the comfort of their own home is phenomenal,” she says.
The success of this project led to ‘Repairlive,’ where experts are available for support and advice via video call if you have a fault with your laptop or TV. Her leadership throughout a cloud transformation project has also been integral, consolidating IT systems to improve scalability and customer experience while also advancing environmental goals.
Technology needs a diverse
range of people with different
viewpoints and backgrounds to thrive.
Women’s networking opportunities
Currys Women’s Network, celebrating its first anniversary with over 400 members, plays a vital role in career development, with regular events, listening groups, mentorship opportunities and workshops. People travel from across the UK to attend our events,” says Spindley, who is also co-chair of the network. “It allows people to enhance their working roles, and we hold listening groups where we discuss confidence-building, imposter syndrome and taking charge of our careers.”
Inclusive hiring for tech success
The company is part of the Social Recruitment Advocacy Group and has partnered with PeoplePlus to further embed their commitment to inclusive recruiting, training and employment practices via their Social Recruitment Covenant. Earlier this year, the company launched Inclusive Recruitment training for all hiring managers. It includes tips on how to avoid bias and make their recruitment practices and strategies more inclusive.
Spindley continues: “Technology needs a diverse range of people with different viewpoints and backgrounds to thrive.” Currys’ core company values — ‘We win together,’ ‘We put our customer first’ and ‘We own it’ — guide efforts to build an inclusive workplace that reflects the diversity of their customer base. With flexible working arrangements, they are hiring more people than ever before.
Finally, she advises: “Be resilient, curious and comfortable being uncomfortable. If you are a curious person and have a genuine interest and knowledge, you have the building blocks for success in technology.”
For more on Currys’ D+I initiatives and career opportunities, visit Currys Careers
