Welcoming our New Lead Data Engineer!

➢ How did you first learn about Eden Smith?

My journey toward Eden Smith began with a simple but important question: where does technology truly make a difference? As my career developed, I became increasingly drawn to work at the intersection of data and AI, technology, and people. When I first came across Eden Smith and explored the organisation in more depth, it immediately felt different. The emphasis on human-led technology, long-term capability building, and meaningful outcomes really stood out and aligned closely with how I view my own work.

➢ What are you most looking forward to in your new role?

I’m most excited about working on data and AI initiatives that have real, lasting impact. Being part of a collaborative, forward-thinking environment where contribution and learning go hand in hand is hugely motivating for me. I’m looking forward to working alongside experienced, passionate people, learning from them while also bringing my own perspective, curiosity, and experience to the team.

➢ What are your three most overused words/phrases that we can expect to hear?

• “Let’s understand the problem first”
• “Long-term value”
• “It depends…” (usually followed by lots of questions!)

➢ What are three career lessons you’ve learned thus far?

First, deep understanding matters far more than quick solutions, rushing without context almost always leads to fragile systems.
Second, scalable systems are built through discipline and simplicity, not unnecessary complexity.
Third, communication and trust are just as important as technical ability. The best solutions come from strong collaboration, not working in isolation.

➢ What has been the most important innovation you have witnessed in your lifetime?

For me, it’s been the evolution of data platforms into unified, cloud-native ecosystems. While AI often takes the spotlight, the convergence of data engineering, analytics, governance, and AI into integrated platforms has dramatically reduced complexity while increasing capability, allowing teams to move faster without sacrificing trust or control.

➢ What are your hopes for our industry?

I hope the industry continues to prioritise people-first, responsible use of data and AI. That means building capability, trust, and understanding, not just delivering technology. Long-term value, ethical governance, and human-centred outcomes should remain at the heart of everything we do.

➢ Before joining Eden Smith, what was the most unusual or interesting job you’ve ever had?

One of the most interesting aspects of my previous roles was reverse-engineering legacy systems where critical business logic had been embedded for years, sometimes decades, with little or no documentation. Understanding not just the data, but the people and processes behind it, was both challenging and fascinating.

➢ How do you balance your career life and personal/family life?

Balance comes from being intentional. I focus on clarity, prioritisation, and setting realistic boundaries, while staying flexible when needed. I’ve learned that being present, whether at work or with family, is far more important than trying to do everything at once.

➢ What are your top 3 life highlights?

• Building a career around meaningful, impactful work
• Being part of teams that value trust and collaboration
• Personal growth that’s come from continuously learning and adapting

➢ Do you have a favourite quote or personal mantra?

Yes, “Aham Brahmāsmi”, a Sanskrit phrase meaning “I am part of the greater whole.” To me, it represents self-belief, responsibility, and continuous growth. It’s a reminder that our mindset and actions shape the systems, teams, and environments we’re part of.

➢ What is the most important thing you have learned in the last five years?

That technical skills alone are never enough. The most meaningful progress happens when technology, people, and processes are aligned, and when curiosity, humility, and listening are valued as much as expertise.

➢ Tell us something about yourself that would surprise us.

Despite working in highly technical roles, one of my greatest strengths is my enjoyment of translating complex ideas into clear, accessible conversations, especially with non-technical stakeholders.

➢ What is your hidden talent?

Patience. Whether it’s untangling legacy systems, supporting others, or navigating complex problems, staying calm and methodical has served me well.

➢ What have you always wanted to try but haven’t… yet?

I’d love to spend time working or learning abroad, experiencing different cultures and perspectives while continuing to grow professionally.