Hi, I'm Sugandha.
Manager, Solutions Architect and Fitness enthusiast, Manchester
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My journey so far…
I grew up in India with my parents and younger siblings. Education was highly valued in my family and my parents encouraged us all to do well at school. We travelled around a lot, because my dad worked in a global bank, which meant I was exposed to lots of diverse cultures. My mother was a Sanskrit teacher in a secondary school and we were raised to be respectful to others. As a child, learning maths was my happy place, and I would spend hours in my room solving problems and equations. I chose to study computer engineering at university, before joining a start-up company in Mumbai as a graduate. I gained lots of experience in programming, before moving to a multinational telecoms firm, where I was quickly promoted. During this time I got married and gave birth to my son. It was a daily challenge to keep up as a working mother to a young child, as there was less support back then. I took a five-year career break, before eventually deciding I was ready to return to work. With my husband’s support I got back up to date with the tech market and brushed up my skills. I joined a global bank and was soon offered a position in the UK, where I started my career as a solutions architect.
I love the problem-solving aspect of my work and the fact that every day is completely different.
Work that matters
I joined Deloitte in 2022, because I was inspired by how Deloitte supports and champions women in technology roles. My day-to-day work is to design and oversee the implementation of complex technical solutions that addresses challenges for clients. As a solutions architect it is my responsibility to build strategic IT solutions, ensuring that systems are joint up in the most efficient manner. I love the problem-solving aspect of my work and the fact that every day is completely different. Working on a product from end-to-end also means you get to see the bigger picture, which I find really exciting. When I started software engineering, there weren’t many women in the industry. That’s changing now and I really want to encourage more women to join the technology world. I want women to know what tech careers are possible for them, right from the moment they start school. I’m part of a Women in Architecture group in Deloitte, as well as the wider architect community, and we support others who are learning and growing in the firm.
Highlights from my week
| Monday | Tuesday | Wednesday | Thursday | Friday |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| I have some client meetings to understand their latest problems, so that I can speak to my team about potential solutions. | I’m presenting a new solution to different stakeholders. In the afternoon I meet with a client leader and get feedback on the tweaks we need to make. | I meet with one of our client’s Chief Security Officers to discuss the security aspects of our new solution. In the evening I take part in a fitness walking challenge, which I’m doing with friends. | I have a review meeting, to check up on the objectives and goals I’ve set myself for this year. It’s really helpful for keeping me on track. | I work from home and catch up with a colleague who leads the Women in Architecture community, so we can decide the agenda for our next meeting. In the evening I unwind with a family dinner. |
My weekend looks like
During my career break I discovered a passion for fitness, and I particularly enjoy running and weightlifting. I’m also part of a non-profit community in Manchester where we motivate women to keep fit through group activities and healthy eating initiatives. My family is very outdoorsy, so we spend time hiking together in the countryside when we can.
3 things I've learned
Always have a thirst for knowledge
No matter how much you progress in your career, you can never know it all. Every day is a school day for me, whether in work or my fitness journey.
Never shy away from asking questions
When you talk to clients you have to ask things to ensure you get the product right. I think people worry about looking stupid, but you’re never expected to know everything.
Learn to rely on your community
At home I have my husband and family, and at work I have amazing mentors. I used to try and do everything on my own, but having a strong support system can really help you when you need it most.
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Sugandha's movie recommendation
Hidden Figures
Hidden Figures is about three women who are NASA scientists in the 60s and 70s. They faced a lot of discrimination for their gender and race, but they excelled despite this. I recommend this movie to anyone who has ever doubted themselves, because it breaks those barriers and makes you feel you can achieve your own dreams.
