Can you tell us about your background and what led you to pursue a career in STEM?
My interest in STEM started in high school when I began coding in the tenth grade. I was fascinated by the flexibility coding offered—how it could solve complex problems with just the right commands. That experience led me to study engineering. Over time, I realised that STEM wasn’t only about technical skills but also about influencing business decisions. This motivated me to pursue double master’s degrees, including an MIT and MBA, to bridge my technical expertise with a business-oriented approach, allowing me to contribute more strategically to the field.
What has been your biggest challenge as a woman in STEM?
In the early stages of my career, I faced invisible biases, feeling that my voice wasn’t always taken seriously. There was an assumption that I might not know enough to make an impact. Thankfully, over time, I had supportive mentors who empowered me to find my voice. One of my first managers taught me the power of Microsoft Excel for data analytics, which was a game-changer for my career. It’s mentors like him who make a difference in overcoming these challenges and help you believe in yourself.
What attracted you to join Expleo, and how has your experience been so far?
I was drawn to Expleo’s commitment to innovation and its active role in data-driven decision-making. The culture also stood out—my interactions with the management team during interviews were incredibly positive. As someone returning to work after a career break, Expleo felt like the ideal place to restart my journey. The experience has been rewarding, and I’ve felt valued and supported, which has been particularly important to me as a new mother.
How has Expleo supported your professional growth and development within the STEM field?
Expleo offers continuous learning opportunities, which have been crucial for my growth. I initially started in TA analytics and later expanded my role into HRIS analytics, allowing me to work closely with leaders and understand their data needs for business decisions. The encouragement to attend workshops and training has kept me up–to-date with the latest skills, which has been instrumental in my career development.
Being a mother, how has the environment at Expleo supported your work-life balance?
Expleo has been very supportive in balancing my career with my role as a mother. There have been few instances where my daughter was unwell, and I felt guilty when meetings were interrupted. However, my colleagues, whether leaders or teammates, were always understanding. The flexibility Expleo offers, combined with the trust placed in me to deliver results, has made it much easier to balance my responsibilities both at work and at home.
Can you describe a particularly rewarding project or achievement you’ve had while working at Expleo?
One memorable project was leading a series of country-specific analytics sessions for TA leaders. These sessions provided insights into data trends, identified bottlenecks in their recruitment processes, and offered actionable recommendations. It was rewarding to see leaders who weren’t used to working with data gain a clearer perspective and apply these insights to improve their processes.
How would you describe the company culture at Expleo, particularly in terms of inclusivity and support for women in STEM?
Expleo fosters a culture of inclusivity where everyone’s voice is valued. I’ve always been encouraged to express my opinions and contribute to decision-making processes. Unlike previous experiences, where I was only responsible for generating reports, here I am involved end-to-end—from data extraction to interpreting findings and making recommendations. This inclusivity has been crucial in building my confidence and feeling genuinely valued.
What does visibility, support and recognition mean to you at Expleo?
For me, visibility and recognition are about trust. Working remotely, I appreciate the flexibility Expleo provides, which has allowed me to excel in my role without compromising on personal responsibilities. At Expleo, I have the opportunity to collaborate with various teams, including country TA leads and the executive committee, on impactful data projects. Being recognised for my contributions, especially directly by leaders, has been incredibly fulfilling.
How do you see your future at Expleo, and what are your career aspirations within the company?
I am keen to grow into a leadership role. HR analytics at Expleo is still in its early stages, and I look forward to contributing to its evolution. I hope to build a dedicated team around this function, expanding our capabilities and using data to drive strategic decisions. Becoming part of the decision-making process is a goal I’m working towards.
What advice would you give to other women considering a career in STEM, especially those looking to join Expleo?
First, build strong fundamentals and seek out mentors. Confidence in your abilities is crucial, but learning from others is equally important. Celebrate your achievements, however small, as they lead to bigger milestones. Set boundaries to maintain a healthy work-life balance, and advocate for yourself. At Expleo, your contributions are valued, and if you’re passionate about growth, you’ll find ample opportunities here.
