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In this episode of the Critical Careers podcast, Lizzy McDowell is joined by Andy Davis from DataX Connect and Sarah Davenport from Capstone Recruitment for a conversation about the value gap, and why salary is only one part of how people understand their worth at work. 

Drawing on insights from the DataX Connect salary survey and their experience recruiting across the data centre industry, Andy and Sarah explore how pay, progression, recognition and opportunity shape career confidence. They discuss why women can be negatively impacted by salary discrepancies and career breaks, particularly when progression stalls after parental leave or when people remain in roles longer without regular pay reviews. 

Together, the conversation explores pay transparency, sponsorship, mentorship, self-advocacy, progression, retention, representation, and the need to widen the talent pool beyond the data centre industry. At its heart, this episode is about understanding value more broadly: not just what someone is paid, but whether they are seen, supported, recognised and given the opportunity to grow. 

“I think worth, knowing your worth and salary aren’t always aligned.” - Sarah Davenport 

“You have to be the CEO of your own career. You have to make your ambition known.” - Sarah Davenport 

“How can we give people the platform so they can be the role models for the next generation?” - Andy Davis 

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Key Takeaways 

- The value gap is about more than salary. It also includes recognition, confidence, progression, opportunity and whether people feel genuinely valued at work. 

- Salary discrepancies can widen at senior levels, particularly when people are promoted internally without regular pay reviews or external benchmarking. 

- Career breaks, maternity leave and part-time working can affect progression and earning potential, but deeper issues around representation and promotion also play a role. 

- Women may stay in roles longer and value stability, project complexity and strategic exposure, which can make regular salary reviews and progression conversations even more important. 

- Employers need to understand what “feeling valued” means for underrepresented groups, rather than assuming salary is the only marker. 

- Mentorship, sponsorship and external perspective can help women understand their value, build confidence and position themselves for the next stage of their careers. 

- Self-advocacy matters. People should document their impact, make their ambitions known and be clear about the extra work they are doing beyond their formal role. 

- Progression does not always mean promotion. It can also mean broader experience, lateral moves, new challenges or exposure to different parts of the business. 

- Representation needs to move beyond the same voices appearing at the same events. More women need platforms to share their expertise, not only to speak about being women in the industry. 

- Employers and employees share responsibility for career development: organisations must create supportive environments, but individuals also need to make themselves known. 

- Bringing talent in from outside the data centre sector remains essential, particularly from related industries such as construction, telecoms, logistics, power and other asset classes. 

- Demystifying the industry is critical. Data centres need engineers, but they also need people in finance, marketing, project management, commercial, recruitment and many other roles. 

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To learn more about Critical Careers, or to get involved with the Critical Careers community, head to the Critical Careers website or search “Critical Careers”. 

Thank you to our founding partner, Kao Data, and our season sponsors: CBRE, AVK, JLL, Eversheds Sutherland, and Mace Construct.

In this episode of the Critical Careers podcast, Lizzy McDowell, Marketing Director at Kao Data and co-founder of Critical Careers, is joined by Hadas Lorber from Nebius, and Social Impact Consultant and Professional Speaker, Michillay Brown, for a conversation about resilience, reinvention, and building a career that does not always follow a straight line. 

Hadas shares how her career moved from national security and government affairs into digital infrastructure, and why that transition made sense when she began to see technology as a central part of national security. After more than 25 years in government, including work on strategic technology dialogues, AI, quantum and international cooperation, she reflects on how curiosity, adaptability and a strong sense of direction helped her begin again in a fast-changing industry. 

Michillay reflects on a career shaped by early responsibility, personal loss and determination. After losing her father at a young age and watching her mother support the family as a nurse, she began working early, taking on roles in hospitality, retail and voluntary organisations before building a career across sustainability, social impact, mining, energy, tech and digital infrastructure. She explains how those experiences shaped her resilience long before she held a formal leadership title. 

Together, the conversation explores how resilience is built through life experience, not just career milestones. Hadas and Michillay discuss grief, motherhood, sacrifice, starting over, transferable skills, mentorship, human-centred leadership and the importance of building a compass rather than following a fixed map. 

At its heart, this episode is a reminder that careers are rarely linear. Sometimes the moments that feel like setbacks, pivots or starting again are the experiences that build the strongest foundations for leadership. 

“For me, resilience is really maintaining your sense of direction when circumstances change.” - Hadas Lorber 

“I think resilience is built in those different chapters from when you’re younger throughout. It builds up to the leadership title that follows afterwards.” - Michillay Brown 

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Key Takeaways 

- Resilience is built through life experience, not only through formal leadership roles or career milestones. 

- Hadas Lorber’s move from national security into digital infrastructure shows how careers can evolve when skills, values and global challenges intersect. 

- Michillay Brown’s journey highlights how early responsibility, personal loss and hard work can shape long-term resilience and leadership. 

- Voluntary work, unpaid opportunities and early career sacrifices can build valuable experience, credibility, networks and future opportunities. 

- Starting again can feel like a step backwards, but it can also be a sign of growth, curiosity and expanding capability. 

- Human-centred leadership means asking for help, protecting capacity, leading with empathy and recognising the human cost of work. 

- In a fast-changing world shaped by AI, curiosity, critical thinking and the willingness to keep learning are essential leadership skills. 

- Careers need a compass more than a map: know your values, interests and direction, but leave room for unexpected opportunities. 

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To learn more about Critical Careers, or to get involved with the Critical Careers community, head to the Critical Careers website or search “Critical Careers”. 

Thank you to our founding partner, Kao Data, and our season sponsors: CBRE, AVK, JLL, Eversheds Sutherland, and Mace Construct.

In this episode of the Critical Careers podcast, Joyce Wady is joined by Adam Nethersole from Kao Data, Justin Hewitt-Coleman from CBRE and Lawrence Olney from Mace for a conversation about allyship, leadership and why men have an important role to play in supporting greater diversity across the data centre industry.

Together, the conversation explores why Critical Careers matters, why male allies need to be active participants in the conversation, and how the industry can create a more inclusive future by recognising talent, broadening perspectives and building stronger relationships.

“I often am the person that waves the wand. But the real magic happens with other people.” - Adam

“If everyone’s travelled the same path, they’ll identify the same blind spots.” - Justin

“It’s not diversity for the sake of diversity. It’s diversity of thought. It’s diversity of perspective.” - Lawrence

-----Key Takeaways - Critical Careers was created to showcase the breadth of women’s talent across the data centre industry, from apprentices to CEOs. - Adam reflects on how many of the most important role models and mentors in his life have been women, shaping his view of leadership and opportunity. - Women in the industry are often recognised through narrow rankings or senior lists, which can miss younger talent, emerging leaders and those working across different functions. - Critical Careers aims to give a more rounded picture of where women fit into digital infrastructure and how many different career paths exist. - Male allies have an important role to play because some audiences may listen differently when men actively support and amplify the conversation. - Justin highlights that data centre operations depend on safe environments where people feel confident to speak up, challenge assumptions and raise concerns. - Leaders need to do more than say their door is open. They need to actively invite different voices into the room and act when concerns are raised. - Inclusion and operational resilience are closely connected because diverse thinking helps teams identify risks, blind spots and better solutions. - Allyship is not just a label. It requires action, empathy, support and a willingness to meet people where they are. - Lawrence reflects on how leadership changes as you move from focusing on your own role to bringing others with you on a shared journey. - Accountability, responsibility and communication are key leadership qualities for the future of the industry. - Understanding people’s individual motivations, needs and circumstances helps leaders get the best from their teams. - Diverse teams are not about optics. They help solve complex problems by bringing different perspectives, experiences and personality types into decision-making. - The industry’s future depends on attracting, retaining and developing young talent while continuing to make progress on gender balance and inclusion. To learn more about Critical Careers, or to get involved with the Critical Careers community, head to the Critical Careers website or search “Critical Careers”. Thank you to our founding partner, Kao Data, and our season sponsors: CBRE, AVK, JLL, Eversheds Sutherland and Mace Construct.

In this episode of the Critical Careers podcast, Joyce Wady is joined by Natascha Geraedts from Eversheds Sutherland, Louise Sharp from Mace Construct, and Mariah Naeem from Paroc Panels.com for a conversation about what it means to stop trying to fit into someone else’s definition of success and start building a career that genuinely aligns with who you are.

Across the discussion, each guest shares a different perspective on career paths, confidence, authenticity and finding the right environment to thrive.

Together, the conversation explores resilience, transferable skills, moral compass, intuition, visibility, values-led leadership and the importance of being in an industry where people feel able to be themselves.

“What it has taught me is being resilient and adapt to different situations.” — Natascha Geraedts

“I never wanted to be in the room because of my gender or because I’m a woman. I wanted to be there because I was good at my job.” —

Louise Sharp “You can find your niche and career at any point in your life.” — Mariah Naeem

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Key Takeaways

- Many women in data centres have reached a point where they stop following someone else’s definition of success and begin building careers around their own strengths, values and interests.

- Natascha Geraedts’ career path has not been conventional, but her time abroad helped shape her resilience, adaptability and confidence to build something new.

- Returning to the Netherlands gave Natascha the opportunity to reset her career, establish her own law firm and create a path that better aligned with who she had become.

- Louise Sharp’s family structure reflects the same philosophy she brings to work: recognising strengths over stereotypes.

- The data centre industry gave Louise an environment where she felt professionally settled and able to apply her technical, commercial and leadership strengths.

- Mariah Naeem’s move from interior design and architecture into construction and data centres shows how unexpected career turns can lead to meaningful opportunities.

- Being encouraged by others to recognise skills she had not seen in herself helped Mariah move into business development and discover a new career direction.

- Understanding personal drivers can make career decisions clearer and help people find roles that genuinely energise them. - Values-led leadership is not about saying everything unfiltered; it is about being thoughtful, fair, honest and aware of the impact you have on others.

- Trust is built through consistency, transparency and openness, especially when difficult messages need to be delivered.

- The data centre industry’s pace, pressure and sense of community can create a space where people feel able to be authentic.

- Career paths do not have to be linear. Different experiences, pivots and decisions can all build transferable skills that help people find their niche.

- Visibility and community play an important role in helping people feel a sense of belonging, especially when they are new to the industry.

- The conversation is a reminder that being yourself at work is not separate from professional success — it can be the foundation of it.

To learn more about Critical Careers, or to get involved with the Critical Careers community, head to the Critical Careers website or search “Critical Careers”.

Thank you to our founding partner, Kao Data, and our season sponsors: CBRE, AVK, JLL, Eversheds Sutherland and Mace Construct.

In this episode of the Critical Careers podcast, recorded live in London as part of a collaboration with the Women’s Tech Forum (WTF), Joyce Wady is joined by Jess Simmonds from Google, Ilona Koprowska from Meta, and Simisola Bryan from Megaport for a conversation about creating communities, building meaningful networks, and finding belonging in digital infrastructure.

The conversation explores why building a career is not a solo activity. It is shaped by the people around you, the networks you build, the communities you join, and the spaces where you feel able to be yourself.

Ilona reflects on her early experience of entering an industry where there were very few women, and how the emergence of women-led communities helped her feel more comfortable and confident.

Jess discusses the importance of creating safe spaces where women can connect without pressure, sales agendas, or the need to perform. Simisola shares her perspective on authenticity, success, and the importance of redefining what career achievement looks like.

Together, the discussion explores community, informal mentorship, allyship, visibility, personal definitions of success, and the role women’s networks can play in helping the digital infrastructure industry become more diverse, inclusive, and supportive as it continues to grow.

“My goal here is to make sure that no one feels how I felt when I started.” - Ilona Koprowska

“People can just be authentic and be themselves and create meaningful connections with other women.” - Jess Simmonds

“Success is not about a job title. It’s about whatever is important to you, what inspires you, and what makes you happy.” - Simisola Bryan

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Key Takeaways

- Building a career is not a solo activity. Networks, communities, and relationships play a major role in shaping confidence, opportunity, and belonging.

- Ilona Koprowska reflects on entering an industry with very few women and how women-led communities helped change her experience of digital infrastructure.

- Becoming an active participant in a community can help turn discomfort into confidence, while also creating a more welcoming space for others.

- Jess Simmonds explains that WTF events are designed to be safe, authentic spaces where women can connect without pressure or sales agendas.

- Community creates room for people to show up as themselves, make meaningful connections, and build support systems that last beyond a single event.

- Simisola Bryan highlights that not everyone is trying to become a CEO, and that success should be defined personally rather than only by seniority or title.

- Redefining success allows people to build careers that reflect their values, family lives, ambitions, and personal priorities.

- Informal mentorship can be just as powerful as formal programs, because guidance often comes through conversations, shared experience, and trusted relationships.

- Strong communities provide people who can challenge you, support you, and help you see strengths you may not yet recognize in yourself.

- Paying it forward is an important part of community building: the support someone receives can become the guidance they offer to someone else.

- Women’s networks help normalise conversations around career development, caregiving, women’s health, confidence, and the realities of working in a male-dominated industry.

- Male allies also have an important role to play, particularly in an industry where many senior leadership positions are still held by men.

- The guests encourage women to step outside their comfort zones, attend events, speak on panels, be present, and trust that they belong in the room.

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To learn more about Critical Careers, or to get involved with the Critical Careers community, head to the Critical Careers website or search “Critical Careers”.

Thank you to our founding partner, Kao Data, and our season sponsors: CBRE, AVK, JLL, Eversheds Sutherland and Mace Construct.

In this episode of the Critical Careers podcast, Joyce Wady is joined by Claire Jones from Equinix, Kalay Moodley from Kao Data, and Theodora Savage from Virtus Data Centres for a conversation on the data centre talent pipeline, and what the industry must do to attract, develop and retain the people it will need for the future.

With the sector facing rapid growth, a long-standing skills shortage and a workforce where many experienced professionals have been in the industry for decades, the discussion moves beyond the familiar headlines to explore practical solutions.

Theodora challenges the industry to look internally as well as externally, focusing on how companies can develop existing talent and create clearer pathways for future leaders. Claire reflects on why talent teams need a more deliberate approach to building young talent, attracting people from adjacent industries, and raising awareness of data centres as a career option.

Kalay shares how Kao Data has intentionally recruited from adjacent sectors like power, utilities and renewables to bring in the skills and perspectives the industry needs. She also highlights the importance of storytelling, showing young people that their passions, from Formula One to football, are enabled by the digital infrastructure behind the scenes.

Together, the conversation explores transferable skills, early careers, apprenticeships, internal development, parent and community awareness, and why the industry needs to collaborate more closely to build a sustainable and diverse talent pipeline.

“We need to actually use the opportunity that we have right now to build an internal infrastructure, to make sure that we’re retaining talent.” - Theodora Savage

“I think as an industry, we have to raise awareness of data centres as a career option, rather than doing it in the silos of our own companies.” - Claire Jones

“Talent does exist. It just wears a different badge or a different uniform at the moment.” - Kalay Moodley

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Key Takeaways

- The data centre industry faces a significant talent challenge, with continued growth creating pressure to attract, develop and retain skilled people.

- Theodora Savage argues that the industry needs stronger development pathways for the people already in the sector.

- Many entry-level roles still require several years of experience, creating a gap between the people the industry wants to attract and the roles available today.

- Hiring from other data centre companies is not sustainable on its own. The sector needs people from adjacent industries with transferable skills.

- Storytelling is essential to making the industry more attractive. Data centres sit behind everyday experiences such as Formula One, football tournaments, streaming and digital services, but many people do not realise that connection.

- Awareness remains a major barrier. Young people, parents and career influencers often do not know what data centres are or what opportunities exist within the sector.

- The industry can learn from sectors such as rail, aviation, healthcare and utilities, where structured training, apprenticeships and clear career pathways are better established.

- Apprenticeships and early careers routes can provide stepping stones into the sector, allowing people to earn while they learn.

- The industry needs a clearer, collective view of progression, so someone entering as a technician can understand how they might grow into future leadership roles.

- Collaboration is essential, particularly around early careers, school engagement, awareness campaigns and internal development programmes.

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To learn more about Critical Careers, or to get involved with the Critical Careers community, head to the Critical Careers website or search “Critical Careers”.

Thank you to our founding partner, Kao Data, and our season sponsors: CBRE, AVK, JLL, Eversheds Sutherland, and Mace Construct.

Recorded at Datacloud Global Congress 2026 in Cannes, Lizzy McDowell and Joyce Wady speak with representatives from Critical Careers' strategic partners about the biggest opportunities and challenges facing the data centre industry.

Lizzy speaks with Charlotte Wood from Spa Communications and Andrew James from Mace Construct about why diversity, communication and collaboration are essential as the sector grows. Andrew discusses the need to bring new people into the industry at every level, while Charlotte reflects on the importance of demystifying data centres and helping a wider audience understand the variety of roles available across digital infrastructure.

Lizzy is then joined by Alana Wilksch from CBRE and Sarah King from AVK to discuss visibility, talent, retention and the importance of amplifying women’s voices. They explore why the industry needs to broaden its talent pool, create more equitable cultures, and show that long-term, successful careers can be built in data centres.

In the second half of the episode, Joyce speaks with Rebecca Clowes from Eversheds Sutherland and Martina Williams from JLL. Rebecca shares why visibility is so important in a sector that can feel opaque from the outside, while Martina reflects on JLL’s commitment to people, culture and women’s networks, and why the collaborative mindset of the data centre industry makes it such an exciting place to build a career.

Together, the conversations highlight the shared purpose behind Critical Careers: increasing visibility, widening access, strengthening the talent pipeline, and showing that there is space for many different backgrounds, disciplines and career paths in the data centre industry.

“It’s our job to let people know and kind of welcome people in.” - Charlotte Wood“Diverse teams are proven to think more laterally, come up with far better ideas.” - Andrew James“Amplifying women’s stories is so important.” - Alana Wilksch“We need to build a more equitable culture so people can stay, grow and thrive.” - Sarah King“Critical Careers makes the industry feel more visible, more tangible.” - Rebecca Clowes“The mindset of this industry is very much collaborative. We achieve more when we bring experts together.” - Martina Williams

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Key Takeaways

- Critical Careers is supported by strategic partners committed to widening access, improving visibility and strengthening the future talent pipeline.

- The data centre sector is growing rapidly, creating challenges around skills, talent, diversity and long-term workforce planning.

- The industry cannot simply keep moving people between companies; it needs to attract talent from adjacent sectors and bring new people in at every level.

- Communication has a major role to play in making the industry feel less technical, less overwhelming and more accessible.

- Data centres offer a broad range of career paths beyond engineering and construction, including marketing, HR, social media, communications, legal, facilities management and other creative or commercial roles.

- Community and collaboration are central to the industry’s culture, both within organisations and across companies, partners and projects.

- Training, development, progression and retention are essential to supporting growth.

- Building more equitable cultures is vital if companies want to attract, retain and support more women in the industry.

- Awareness remains a major issue: many people still do not understand what the data centre sector is or how many careers sit within it.

- The collaborative mindset of the data centre industry is one of its strengths, creating an environment where people work together to solve problems and build resilience.

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To learn more about Critical Careers, or to get involved with the Critical Careers community, head to the Critical Careers website or search “Critical Careers”.

Thank you to our founding partner, Kao Data, and our season sponsors: CBRE, AVK, JLL, Eversheds Sutherland, and Mace Construct.

In this bonus episode of the Critical Careers podcast, Joyce Wady and Lizzy McDowell reflect on the incredible growth of Critical Careers over the past 12 months - from a single book idea into a podcast, a second book, an established community and an initiative supported by six strategic partners. Following the launch of the second Critical Careers book, Joyce and Lizzy discuss what it has meant to profile 31 more women across the data centre and digital infrastructure industry.

They reflect on the generosity of the women who have shared their stories, the appetite within the industry to support the mission, and the impact Critical Careers is already having on women who see themselves reflected in the journeys being shared.

The conversation is a celebration of community, momentum and possibility. Joyce and Lizzy look back on how far the initiative has come, while also looking ahead to the next 12 months and the opportunity to keep expanding the reach of Critical Careers, connecting more women, and showcasing the breadth of careers available in the industry.

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To learn more about Critical Careers, or to get involved with the Critical Careers community, head to the Critical Careers website or search “Critical Careers”.

Thank you to our founding partner, Kao Data, and our season sponsors: CBRE, AVK, JLL, Eversheds Sutherland, and Mace Construct.

In this episode of the Critical Careers podcast, Joyce Wady welcomes Sarah King, from AVK, and Anna Solar-Bassett to discuss why communities are pushing back on data centres — and what the industry needs to do differently as it moves further into the public spotlight. 

First, Joyce speaks with Sarah King about the importance of education, local context and meaningful community engagement. Drawing on her background in NGOs, humanitarian aid, mining, oil and gas, Sarah explains why the fundamentals of engagement remain the same across industries: listen first, understand the community, and avoid assuming you already know what people need. She also explores why data centres need to do more to explain what they are, how they operate, and what opportunities they can create for local people.  

In the second half of the episode, Joyce is joined by Anna Solar-Bassett, who brings a background in politics, government, technology and corporate affairs. Anna discusses why data centres are “having a real moment,” why the industry needs to think more like a campaign, and why social licence to operate will become increasingly important as development accelerates.  

Together, the conversations explore how the industry can build trust, address myths, engage more effectively with local communities, and create stronger pathways into digital infrastructure for young people, women and those pursuing skilled technical careers. 

“Education for me is absolutely critical on top of that engagement.” — Sarah King  

“People want to feel heard, but particularly when they’re upset about something, the worst thing you can do is be defensive.” — Anna Solar-Bassett  

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Key Takeaways 

- Data centres are facing a critical moment where local community engagement needs to become more proactive, strategic and human.  

- Sarah King’s experience across NGOs, humanitarian aid, mining, oil and gas has shown her that listening to communities is the foundation of effective stakeholder engagement.  

- The industry needs to step outside its own bubble and understand the fears, misconceptions and local issues driving community pushback.  

- Education is essential: many people do not know what a data centre is, how the cloud relies on physical infrastructure, or what opportunities the sector can offer.  

- Community engagement should go beyond regulatory planning requirements and create real opportunities for people to ask questions in person.  

- Local context matters. Concerns can vary not only by region, but by neighbourhood, college, road, river or community group.  

- The sector has an opportunity to inspire young people by going into schools, colleges and universities and showing how they can fit into the future of digital infrastructure.  

- Anna Solar-Bassett’s career across politics, government, technology and corporate affairs has helped her understand the intersection between communities, media, policymakers and business.  

- Data centres are now firmly in the spotlight, and the industry needs to use that attention as an opportunity to explain its benefits, address legitimate concerns and bust myths.  

- Building trust means acknowledging the fear behind a concern before trying to correct misinformation.  

- Social licence to operate is not just about ticking regulatory boxes; it is about becoming a valued and trusted part of the community for the long term.  

- Everyone in the industry has a role to play as an ambassador for data centres and digital infrastructure.  

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To learn more about Critical Careers, or to get involved with the Critical Careers community, head to the Critical Careers website or search “Critical Careers”. 

Thank you to our founding partner, Kao Data, and our season sponsors: CBRE, AVK, JLL, Eversheds Sutherland, and Mace Construct.

In this episode of the Critical Careers podcast, Lizzy McDowell, Director of Marketing at Kao Data, is in the presenter chair, welcoming Kir Devaser, Product Marketing Lead at CUDO Compute, to talk about confidence: how it is built, how it can be knocked, and why it is not always something people feel as strongly as others perceive. 

The conversation follows Kir’s journey from economics and finance into financial writing, crypto, AI and eventually data centres. She discusses what it was like working in male-dominated spaces, the pressure to prove herself, and the moments where poor leadership damaged her confidence. She also shares how strong managers, external validation and personal resilience helped her rebuild and grow. 

At the heart of the episode is an honest conversation about confidence as something that develops through discomfort, experience, respect and self-trust. Kir reflects on the importance of stepping outside your comfort zone, leading with empathy, knowing your strengths, and using your own confidence to create space for others.  

“Staying in your comfort zone will not push your limits.” — Kir Devaser 

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Key Takeaways 

- Confidence is not always something people feel internally, even when others perceive them as confident.  

- Kir’s original ambition was to become a vet, but not getting the grades she needed forced her to rethink her future. 

- Early family conversations about finance, economics and global markets helped shape her curiosity and independence.  

- Growing up around strong women and attending an all-girls school helped Kir develop confidence, but moving into mixed and male-dominated environments revealed different gender dynamics.  

- Working as a financial writer helped Kir learn to back herself with facts, evidence and clear communication.  

- Male-dominated sectors such as finance and crypto can create additional pressure for women to prove themselves.  

- Poor management can damage confidence, while strong managers can help rebuild it through belief, validation and trust.  

- Confidence grows when you step outside your comfort zone and stretch beyond what feels familiar.  

- Delayed gratification, resilience and long-term goals can help keep you grounded when entering a new role or industry.  

- Kir’s strength lies in storytelling, messaging and making complex ideas easier to understand.  

- Good leadership means stepping back, pushing others forward and creating space for people to grow.  

- Knowing what you are good at — and accepting that you cannot be good at everything — is a powerful part of building confidence.  

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To learn more about Critical Careers, or to get involved with the Critical Careers community, head to the Critical Careers website or search “Critical Careers”. 

Thank you to our founding partner, Kao Data, and our season sponsors: CBRE, AVK, JLL, Eversheds Sutherland, and Mace Construct.

In this episode of the Critical Careers podcast, Joyce Wady welcomes Kelly Phillips to explore the role that mentorship, allyship and community have played in shaping her career in data centres and digital infrastructure.

Kelly shares how her earliest work experiences - from growing up in a family business to working on cruise liners - taught her resilience, adaptability, high standards and the importance of connecting with people. She reflects on the moment a manager recognised her natural ability in business development, how that relationship became a long-term mentorship, and why trust-based relationships have continued to guide her career path.

The conversation looks at the difference between being managed and being mentored, the importance of being challenged by people who believe in your potential, and how allies can open doors and help you be seen. Kelly also discusses stepping into senior leadership, why she continues to seek mentorship even at C-suite level, and how she now uses mentoring as a core part of her own leadership style.

At the heart of the episode is a powerful message about paying it forward: when someone opens a door for you, the best way to repay it is to open the next one for someone else.

“Mentors help you grow, allies help you be seen.” - Kelly Phillips

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Key Takeaways

- Early career experiences can shape long-term strengths, even before you recognise them yourself.

- Kelly’s background in a family business and cruise liners helped her develop resilience, adaptability, customer service skills and the ability to connect with people.

- A single moment of recognition from the right person can completely change how someone sees their own potential.

- Business development is not just a process - it is about people, trust, relationships and long-term value.

- Mentorship and management are different: management focuses on the task, while mentorship invests in potential.

- Growth often happens when someone you trust pushes you beyond your comfort zone.

- Allies and mentors play different roles: mentors help you develop, while allies help open doors and create visibility.

- Senior leaders still need mentorship, especially when stepping into new responsibilities or unfamiliar markets.

- Kelly’s leadership style is rooted in mentoring: guiding people to find their own answers, build confidence and own their decisions.

- Supporting the next generation means being available, giving honest feedback, opening networks and helping others find their place.

- Real change happens when people continue the cycle of support by paying it forward.

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To learn more about Critical Careers, or to get involved with the Critical Careers community, head to the Critical Careers website or search “Critical Careers”.

Thank you to our founding partner, Kao Data, and our season sponsors: CBRE, AVK, JLL, Eversheds Sutherland, and Mace Construct.

In this episode of the Critical Careers podcast, Joyce Wady welcomes Blanka Thibault, founder of TechHer Capital, to discuss the investment side of the data centre industry. 

With AI driving unprecedented demand for digital infrastructure, the conversation explores why investment and boardroom decision-making remain areas where women are still underrepresented. Blanka shares her journey from real estate and finance into data centres, her experience working on hyperscale investment strategy, and why she believes women have a vital role to play in shaping where, how, and by whom future infrastructure is built. 

Blanka discusses the founding of TechHer Capital, her ambition to bring together a women-led team capable of building and managing a data centre from conception to operation, and why curiosity, conviction and grit are essential in such a fast-changing industry.  

“Really being courageous in this industry is the most important thing” - Blanka Thibault, TechHer Capital 

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Key Takeaways 

- Data centre investment has shifted from traditional real estate thinking to complex infrastructure decision-making.  

- AI demand is accelerating capital deployment, but data centres require far more than funding alone.  

- Grid capacity, procurement, community engagement, technical expertise and operator reputation are all critical to successful data centre development.  

- Real estate is only one small part of the challenge when investing in data centres.  

- The investment side of the industry remains a closed network, and women often face barriers to accessing decision-making rooms.  

- More stringent definitions of women-owned and women-led companies are needed to move beyond token representation.  

- Community, networking and grassroots initiatives can help women build confidence and visibility in the sector.  

- Different perspectives create new ways of approaching infrastructure, funding and project delivery.  

- Courage, curiosity, conviction and grit are essential qualities for anyone looking to build a career in digital infrastructure.  

- Blanca’s long-term ambition is to help deliver a women-led data centre project in Europe, from concept through to operation.  

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To learn more about Critical Careers, or to get in touch, head to the Critical Careers website or search “Critical Careers”. 

Thank you to our founding partner, Kao Data, and our season sponsors: CBRE, AVK, JLL, Eversheds Sutherland, and Mace Construct.

Recorded in front of a live audience at CBRE's Southwark Street office, this episode of Critical Careers brings together three senior leaders in the data centre industry: Eve Mcilvaney (Yondr Group), Lisa Duignan (Turner & Townsend), and Caroline Manzor (CBRE). Together, they explore what it truly means to lead high-performing teams in a fast-paced, mission-critical industry. The conversation delves into belonging, trust, and authenticity in leadership, as well as the realities of managing pressure, chaos, and constant change. Drawing on personal career experiences, the panel reflects on how inclusive cultures are built—and why calm, empathy, and clear communication are essential in environments where everything feels urgent. The panellists also discuss the challenges women continue to navigate in leadership roles, from unconscious bias to burnout, and why mental wellness, empowerment, and work-life balance must be prioritised for the next generation. Mentorship, allyship, and leading by example emerge as critical drivers of sustainable change within the industry. “Belonging means everything. It means I can be myself, speak up, and feel safe—and everybody deserves that in their career.” - Eve Mcilvaney, Yondr Group ----- Key Takeaways - A strong sense of belonging is foundational to high-performing teams. - Effective leadership in data centres requires calm, consistency, and emotional intelligence. - Managing chaos is a core skill in fast-paced, mission-critical environments. - Trust is built through honesty, visibility, and leading by example. - Empowering teams means stepping back and allowing others to lead. - Listening is one of the most underrated and impactful leadership skills. - Women continue to face conscious and unconscious bias in the workplace. - Mental wellness and burnout prevention need greater focus across the industry. - Switching off and respecting boundaries improves long-term performance. -Mentorship, allyship, and authenticity are key to supporting the next generation of leaders. -----To learn more about Critical Careers, or to get in touch, head to our website: www.critical-careers.kaodata.com, or search "Critical Careers".Learn more about our series sponsor, CBRE, at www.cbre.com

This episode of Critical Careers brings together three women steering digital infrastructure at the highest level: Elvira van Bruggen (Microsoft), Kirsty Harrower (Norton Rose Fulbright), and Deborah Shaw (Apatura).

Together, they explore the diverse paths that led them into the sector, the challenge of building for an uncertain and fast-moving future, and the realities of power, regulation, and rapid AI-driven growth. They also discuss why storytelling, public understanding, and clear communication are essential to earning societal trust. 

The panelists emphasise the need for more women in the industry and the unique qualities they bring, advocating for mentorship and support for the next generation. 

"It doesn't matter what you do, what your background is, there's always something that you can do [...] if you're willing to keep learning and keep growing" - Elvira van Bruggen, Microsoft.

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Key Takeaways

- Diverse backgrounds contribute to the richness of the data center industry.

- The industry is fast-paced and requires constant adaptation.

- Legal frameworks often lag behind technological advancements.

- Community engagement is crucial for successful data centre projects.

- Power availability is a significant challenge for data centres.

- Data centres are essential for modern life and infrastructure.

- Education is key to dispelling myths about data centres.

- Empathy and creativity are valuable traits women bring to leadership.

- Mentorship and support for women in the industry are vital for growth.

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To learn more about Critical Careers, or to get in touch, head to our website: www.critical-careers.kaodata.com, or search "Critical Careers".

Learn more about our series sponsor, CBRE, at www.cbre.com

In this episode, Joyce Wady welcomes Andrea Stosic (NTT Global Data Centres) and Dame Dawn Childs (Pure Data Centres) onto the podcast to discuss their work in engineering.

The conversation explores the common misconceptions surrounding engineering, emphasising the diverse roles within the field that go beyond traditional hands-on or design work.

It highlights the importance of understanding the various pathways in engineering careers and the opportunities available for different skill sets.

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Key Takeaways

People often misunderstand what engineering truly encompasses.

Engineering is not just about hands-on work or design.

Management and process navigation are crucial aspects of engineering.

Opportunities in engineering can suit a wide range of personalities and skills.

The perception of engineering is often limited to stereotypes.

Understanding the breadth of engineering roles can attract more talent.

Engineers can work in various capacities beyond fixing or designing.

The engineering field is diverse and inclusive of different skill sets.

Encouraging a broader view of engineering can help in career choices.

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To learn more about Critical Careers, or to get in touch, head to our website: www.critical-careers.kaodata.com, or search "Critical Careers".

Learn more about our series sponsor, CBRE, at www.cbre.com

In this episode, Joyce Wady and Jennifer Olafenwa (Brilliant AI Technologies) explore how innovation flourishes when people from different backgrounds bring their ideas to the table.

Jennifer shares her story of how she came to build an AI company after starting her career in law and being inspired by ChatGPT.

They also discuss how AI can become a tool not just for progress, but for greater access, opportunity, and inclusion. 

"AI, for me, is not just another technology. I think it is the ultimate enabler" - Jennifer Olafenwa, Brilliant AI Technologies.

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Key Takeaways

- Jennifer studied law for five years before transitioning to tech. 

- She began programming in 2020 as a side project. 

- The release of ChatGPT was a pivotal moment for her. 

- Her journey reflects a growing trend of career changes into tech. 

- Innovation in AI can be a revolutionary force. 

- Jennifer's passion for tech drives her career aspirations. 

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To learn more about Critical Careers, or to get in touch, head to our website: www.critical-careers.kaodata.com, or search "Critical Careers".

Learn more about our series sponsor, CBRE, at www.cbre.com

In this episode of the Critical Careers Podcast, Joyce Wady speaks with Melanie Kiely (Oracle).Melanie shares her journey through the digital infrastructure industry, discussing the unique challenges women face in leadership roles and the importance of mentorship and networking. She emphasises the need for women to build their confidence, develop their personal brand, and be intentional about their career development.The conversation also touches on the evolving challenges for women in tech and the excitement surrounding innovation in the industry."I think mentorship is really critical, [...] I've had so many wonderful mentors, that I want to give back" - Melanie Kiely, Oracle.-----Key Takeaways- Building a network early in one's career is crucial for success.- Women often face unconscious biases that can hinder their advancement.- Confidence can be built through networking and mentorship.- Intentional career development is necessary for achieving professional goals.- Personal branding is essential in today's competitive job market.- Women should advocate for themselves and seek opportunities.- Resilience is key in overcoming setbacks and pursuing career growth.- The digital infrastructure industry is rapidly evolving and full of opportunities.-----To learn more about Critical Careers, or to get in touch, head to our website: www.critical-careers.kaodata.com, or search "Critical Careers".Learn more about our series sponsor, CBRE, at www.cbre.com

In the latest episode of the Critical Careers Podcast, Joyce Wady interviews Lauren Wendon from CBRE, discussing the critical role of health and safety in data centre operations.

Lauren shares her unexpected journey into the data centre industry, emphasising the importance of human factors in risk management and the need for workplace flexibility.

The conversation also touches on mental health awareness, innovative safety practices, and the significance of collaboration in shaping the future of the industry. 

"There really is nothing more important than making sure our people, when they finish their shifts, go home safe and well to their families" - Lauren Wendon, CBRE.

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Key Takeaways

- Health and safety are crucial in data centre operations.

- Confidence is key; women should not hesitate to apply for roles they feel underqualified for.

- Creating a culture of safety requires empowering employees to speak up.

- Balancing work and family responsibilities is a common challenge for working parents.

- Flexibility in the workplace can greatly enhance employee well-being.

- Mental health awareness is becoming a priority in the industry.

- Innovative training methods, such as AI, can improve safety education.

- Collaboration among professionals is essential for advancing safety standards. 

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To learn more about Critical Careers, or to get in touch, head to our website: www.critical-careers.kaodata.com, or search "Critical Careers".

Learn more about our series sponsor, CBRE, at www.cbre.com

In this episode of the Critical Careers Podcast, Joyce Wady speaks with Libby Milne (Buro Four) about the importance of building community within the data centre industry, particularly for women.

They discuss the collaborative culture emerging in the industry, the role of the Forum for Women in Data Centres, and the significance of networking and mentorship.

Libby shares her experiences and insights on how women can support each other, the changing dynamics of professional conversations, and the importance of being vocal about career aspirations.

The conversation highlights the value of shared experiences in creating a supportive environment for women in digital infrastructure.

"Making that connection builds a bit of confidence and being there is the most important thing" - Libby Milne, Buro Four.

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Key Takeaways

- The data centre industry encourages a collaborative culture.

- Women in the industry feel a strong sense of community and support.

- Networking events have evolved into mentoring opportunities.

- Newcomers should leverage existing networks for guidance.

- Being vocal about career goals can open up opportunities.

- Shared interests can facilitate networking and connections.

- Senior women in the industry are willing to mentor and support newcomers.

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To learn more about Critical Careers, or to get in touch, head to our website: www.critical-careers.kaodata.com, or search "Critical Careers".

Learn more about our series sponsor, CBRE, at www.cbre.com

In this episode of the Critical Careers podcast, host Joyce Wady engages with Catriona Shearer (JLL) and Michelle Wallace (Digital Infrastructure Ireland, A Better Work) to discuss the challenges and their methods on creating change within the workplace.

They explore the importance of networking for women, the need to break traditional workplace norms, and the significance of creating a human-centred work environment.

The conversation also highlights initiatives aimed at empowering emerging leaders and workplace training to give women the confidence they need to take centre stage.

"We need to bring in more voices" - Catriona Shearer, JLL.

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Key Takeaways 

 - Women feel supported in the digital infrastructure industry. 

- Networking is crucial for women in leadership roles. 

- Breaking tradition can lead to innovative solutions. 

- A human-centred design is essential for workplace success. 

- Inclusive strategies are vital for organisational change. 

- Asking the right questions can lead to better solutions. 

- Empowering women leads to positive outcomes for everyone. 

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To learn more about Critical Careers, or to get in touch, head to our website: www.critical-careers.kaodata.com, or search "Critical Careers".

Learn more about our series sponsor, CBRE, at www.cbre.com

In the second episode of the series, Joyce Wady welcomes Anna Rantala (BCS), Holly Fenner (GeN+1), and Luisa Cardani (TechUK) to the studio to discuss starting fresh in the industry.

This episode explores the diverse paths individuals take to enter the data centre industry, highlighting the importance of inclusivity and the need for a shift in public perception.

The speakers discuss their unique backgrounds, the critical role of community initiatives like GeN+1, and the industry's urgent need for talent. They emphasize the importance of diversity in skills and perspectives, and the necessity of educating the public about the industry's significance and sustainability efforts. 

"You're having the time of your life. It's a very welcoming sector" - Luisa Cardani, TechUK.

Key Takeaways 

- The data centre industry is growing rapidly and needs diverse talent. 

- Many professionals in the industry come from non-traditional backgrounds. 

- Diversity in skills and perspectives enhances problem-solving in the industry. 

- Changing public perception is essential for attracting new talent. 

- The industry is not just about technical roles; it requires various skill sets. 

- Networking and community building are vital for career development. 

- Education about the industry's impact on sustainability is necessary. 

- The narrative around data centres needs to shift to highlight their importance. 

- Young people should feel empowered to explore various career paths in the industry. 

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To learn more about Critical Careers, or to get in touch, head to our website: www.critical-careers.kaodata.com, or search "Critical Careers"

Learn more about our series sponsor, CBRE, at www.cbre.com

In the first episode of the Critical Careers podcast, Joyce Wady sits down with Lizzy McDowell, Director of Marketing at Kao Data.

They discuss the significance of data centres in our day to day lives, why women are making such a difference in this industry, and the personal journeys that led them to their current roles.

The conversation highlights why women feel so welcome in digital infrastructure, the challenges of the talent pipeline, and why community engagement is necessary to inspire future generations to consider careers in digital infrastructure. 

“What I really want from the Critical Careers initiative is just to spark that little bit of curiosity about data centres” - Lizzy McDowell, Kao Data.

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Key Takeaways 

- Data centres are crucial for everyday digital interactions. 

- The narrative around data centres needs to be reframed positively. 

- There are diverse career opportunities within the data centre sector beyond technical roles. 

- The industry is facing a significant talent shortage that needs to be addressed. 

- Community engagement is essential for inspiring future talent in the industry. 

- Personal stories can inspire others to explore careers in digital infrastructure. 

- Bringing more diverse perspectives to the workforce leads to better problem-solving and innovation.  

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To learn more about Critical Careers, or to get in touch, head to our website: www.critical-careers.kaodata.com, or search "Critical Careers".

Learn more about our series sponsor, CBRE, at www.cbre.com

Real stories. Diverse journeys. Women leading what’s next.

Critical Careers is a podcast celebrating the women building, leading, and designing digital infrastructure. Through honest conversations with women at every stage of their careers, we uncover what it takes to thrive in one of the world’s most vital and fast-changing industries.

You may not realise it, but you rely on this technology every day. From navigating with Google Maps to accessing medical records or powering climate research, it’s the invisible foundation behind the tools and services we depend on every day.

Each episode features women across operations, strategy, engineering, and more sharing how they got here, what they’ve learned, and the future they’re helping to shape.

Whether you’re already in the industry, looking to make a change or considering your first career move, these stories are for you.

Perfect for listeners interested in:

> Career journeys in tech and engineering

> Leadership and workplace culture> Women breaking barriers in business

> The future of work and emerging industries

Follow and subscribe for a fresh episode every Thursday.