Allison's inspiring career journey at Nestlé IT

Can you share with us your career journey and how you reached your current position as an IT Manager?

In high school, the first ever computer class was offered in my senior year, and it completely changed my perspective on my future career. I was instantly captivated by the world of technology and realized that as long as I stayed up to date with the latest skills and remained adaptable, I could have a fulfilling and engaging career until retirement.

I started my journey coding in Cobol and initially believed that would be my lifelong career path. I went from coding to analysis, being a specialist for SAP roles and security user access, and now I serve as a functional relationship manager between Nestlé IT and Nestlé Purina. My career journey has led me to build amazing relationships that have not only inspired me but also helped me grow both personally and professionally. Along the way, I have acquired a diverse set of skills that I utilize to navigate the ever-evolving work environment.

In my current role, I ensure that Purina's needs and interests are well-represented in key projects and initiatives. My focus is always on prioritizing the user experience, consistently considering and addressing the impact of IT initiatives on Purina stakeholders.

What projects have you enjoyed working on the most, and which ones do you think had the biggest impact on the company?

I had the incredible opportunity to be part of a small group from Purina that was selected to work on a global project at another Nestlé location for a period of 9 to 18 months. I gained a deep understanding of what it takes to ensure a successful implementation and had the chance to build strong relationships not only at the location I was working at, but also with project resources from around the world. It was an eye-opening experience that allowed me to broaden my perspective and learn from diverse teams.

When it came time for the implementation at Purina, I was proud to be part of the team that achieved a significant milestone. We were the first location to have zero high priority incidents related to SAP access.

The projects I have worked on have not only allowed me to contribute to the success of the company but have also provided me with invaluable experiences and opportunities for growth. Being part of a global organization has given me the chance to work on impactful projects that make a difference in the lives of our customers and the communities we serve.

What is flexibility like across Nestlé, and how do you balance life and work?

Flexibility at Nestlé is truly remarkable, and it starts with the incredible managers who genuinely care about the growth and well-being of their team members. They understand that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to work and are committed to finding the right balance between personal and professional life. Flexibility isn’t just a buzzword; it's a way of life. It's about empowering individuals to find the right balance, supporting them through life's ups and downs, and providing opportunities for growth and development. It's a culture that values the well-being of its employees and recognizes that when they are given the flexibility to thrive, they can achieve extraordinary things.

What skills make someone successful within this type of role?

There are certain skills that go beyond the tangible "what" and "how" to truly make someone successful. These intangible skills are what set individuals apart and allow them to thrive in any position. Skills such as communication, collaboration, flexibility, common courtesy, earning the trust of others by being reliable, responsible, and knowledgeable in your area of expertise as well as having a sense of humor help. While technical skills are undoubtedly important, it's these intangible skills that truly make someone successful in any role. They are the foundation upon which individuals can build their expertise and make a lasting impact.

What excites you about the future of technology?

When I was in high school and got my own landline, I thought I was so cool! Little did I know that the world of technology would evolve at such a rapid pace, bringing about incredible changes and opportunities. Looking back, I’m amazed at how much I have learned and grown throughout the years. From the days of landlines to the advent of smartphones, from coding in Cobol to exploring the possibilities of AI, technology has transformed our lives in ways we couldn't have imagined. Being a part of this journey at Nestlé is nothing short of exhilarating! I’m fortunate to be part of a company that values innovation and embraces the potential of technology. The future holds endless possibilities, and I am thrilled to be on this ride, ready to learn, adapt, and contribute to the ever-changing world of technology.

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