Jo, tell us about your role
As PPL’s Technology Operations Manager, I look after multiple teams in our Tech department. I make sure employees in every part of the organisation have the tech they need to do their jobs safely, efficiently and smoothly.
Sometimes that means working directly with people, like our service desk teams coming to the rescue if someone has a problem with their laptop. Sometimes we’re behind the scenes, maintaining cyber security, or ensuring vital tech updates go through without a hitch.
I always say I have a lot of plates spinning – but I like it that way.
What made you want to be part of PPL and what were you doing before?
I’ve been at PPL for 18 years. I joined after being involved in user testing for a new licencing system that was going live. That system’s since been decommissioned but I’m still here!
Prior to PPL, I was studying, and I used to photograph live bands to make extra cash and get free entry to gigs. I also worked at Shepperton Film Studios and post-production companies.
Joining PPL meant an entry into the world of music, a chance to try out an office job, and an opportunity to upskill and gain new qualifications. I love learning, so it was ideal for me, and of course with technology, there’s always something new to master. I’ve changed roles a few times over the years, and it’s always stayed interesting.
What are some of the most interesting projects you’ve been involved with at PPL?
Well, 18 years means I’ve worked on a lot of projects. Things never stay still here, and I think improvements should always be celebrated.
In my current role it’s all about the patches and upgrades – updates that take place without disruption to keep everyone’s systems up to date. It’s part of my job to make sure people have the tech they need to operate at the top of their game, and perform to the best of their ability.
What might a typical day involve?
Every day brings something different, and usually every member of my team will be focused on various critical tasks. My top priority is to ensure everyone is doing well, that work is progressing as expected, and to identify any obstacles where I can offer help. I like to be hands on.
There are also the routine responsibilities to manage, such as checking tickets for incoming incidents or technical requests from others across the company.
What’s your top technology-related tip?
When you finish work for the day, always shut down your laptop. It doesn’t take you more than a couple of minutes, but when it’s restarting, it’s often making security updates that protect your machine. Sometimes turning it off and back on again really is important!
What’s the most rewarding thing about your job?
It’s the opportunity to engage with a wide range of people, not just the teams that report to me.
I particularly value seeing teams come together to collaborate and tackle challenges collectively. I take pride in my ability to navigate those challenges and bring out the best in others.
What’s something you’ve helped make happen at PPL that you’re particularly proud of?
One of my proudest achievements is supporting people to advance in their careers while continuing to contribute to PPL’s success.
I’m in awe of the loyalty and dedication shown by the individuals I work with, and I always feel a strong sense of pride when introducing them. For context, my team collectively brings over 100 years of experience at PPL. That’s testament to their commitment and expertise.
Tech is changing fast. What are you most excited about in terms of how technology can impact PPL?
AI has the potential to affect many areas of our business, from writing code more quickly to providing better services to our members. Our top priority is making sure that we keep our members’ data secure, and use AI in the right way.
Onto our music questions… What are you most excited about in the music world?
Live shows are my thing, particularly in a small independent venue where you can just switch off and enjoy the music, the atmosphere and perhaps a beer or two.
Who are your ones to watch?
My husband introduced me to a British band called Static Dress. They’re very creative, talented musicians – a band I think could be very successful in the future.
Any recent live music highlights?
Having kids slightly hinders going out to see live bands, but recently I had an opportunity to go to Outbreak Festival in Victoria Park and I loved it. It was great to see brilliant bands like Knocked Loose and Drug Church.
What’s a track that always makes you smile – and why?
I’ve always been into metal bands, and although I’ve expanded the genres I enjoy, for fun and energy I always go back to the music I loved in my younger years. Two songs come to mind instantly that never fail to make me smile: my first musical love Type O Negative with Black No 1, and Rob Zombie’s Dragula.
And finally, what track should everyone have on their playlist?
It’s all about variety! My playlist picks depend on my mood.
For energy: Pantera with Cowboys from Hell.
For nostalgia: Anything by Type O Negative.
For moodiness: Opeth.
And for anything else, The National. For me, their music goes with anything and everything.
