Dale joined M247 in July 2022 as a Salesforce Developer. Since then, Dale has played a key role in strengthening the structure of the Business Systems function, helping to bring in new talent and set the team up with a clear path to support the business. We talk to Dale about his journey so far, role and why he loves working at M247.
How did you decide that being a Developer was the role for you?
I started my software development career as a Graduate for a company called QA Consulting. Whilst completing my graduate scheme, a tutor recognised that as well as understanding the code and development side of the role, I was also particularly strong at supporting others and helping them understand things. It was as a result of this that I was invited to become a software trainer, and so for several years I taught graduates as a software trainer.
What drove your interest specifically in Salesforce?
My initial journey into the world of Salesforce was as a result of a training gap within my then company. Throughout my time as a trainer, I maintained a keen interest in making sure that my passion for developing was not lost. When an opportunity came up to train new graduates in Salesforce, I was keen to expand my own knowledge so taught myself the basics before moving on to train new graduates in the discipline.
I really love Salesforce as a platform, it’s incredibly versatile and there is so much you can do with it, and the automation ability is second to. As a platform, it’s crucial to our business processes and key to how we manage customer relationships. It’s therefore vital that when we’re making updates and changes that those developments are accurate, and reflective of the improvements we want to make.
How has your career progressed?
After a few years of training, I decided I wanted to pursue my original career path and move into software development full time. At this point I secured my first role within the telecoms industry, as a Junior Developer at TalkTalk.
I threw myself into the role and was keen to learn everything I could and get involved in as many projects as possible. This positive attitude meant I was promoted within 6 months of joining the company. This gave me the confidence to stretch my skills further and using the Salesforce knowledge and skills I had taught myself in my previous role, I was able to progress to the role of Salesforce Developer.
Why did you join M247?
When I was looking for a new role, I knew I wanted to stay within the technology industry, but I was also looking for a company where I felt the culture would suit me. After 2 years of working remotely, with team interaction being primarily through digital channels, I really wanted to join a company local to me and where I would be able to enjoy the benefits of an office working environment and in-person collaboration. It was also important that I found a business with a strong team and people orientated culture.
Throughout the interview process I met with a few different members of the M247 team, and at each stage I got a great feeling about the company and the people that work here. It was clear that everyone I met felt passionately about the business and were incredibly friendly and supportive, and this was something I wanted to be part of. I’m pleased to say that I’m 6 months in and that feeling remains the same. I’m proud to be part of a business that is forward thinking and encourages growth and development of its people.
What is different about your new role?
In the time that I have been with M247 I have been lucky to be part of a team that has a clear vision for where we want to get to and our role with supporting colleagues across the business. I have been fortunate to be in a position where, working with my line manager, we have created a new team and I have been part of the shaping and structuring of that team. I now lead two developers and we are all excited for what the future holds and how we can continue to drive best practice, whilst optimising the use of Salesforce within our business.
What are you looking most forward to in your new role for 2023?
There are several big transformation projects planned for 2023 which I’m really looking forward to getting involved in. And it’s great to be able to work on these longer-term strategic plans for the business with the help and support of a great team around me.
I’m also really excited about my role as a manager and how I can help nurture and develop the team. Having been offered the chance to lead the team in this way is a real joy for me as it allows me to combine elements of my original job, focussing on teaching and coaching elements, but whilst also staying involved with the actual software development too!
Many congratulations on your promotion Dale, it’s really well deserved, and you are an invaluable member of our team.
If Dale’s story has inspired you to look for a new role and you would like to work for a fast-paced technology company, take a look at our latest vacancies.
