Natalie Harrison, Head of Marketing, Epson, Middle East, Africa and Turkey, elaborates on her career journey and her passion for technology.
Tell us about your leadership style and philosophy.
Trust, support, and transparency are key when managing a team to give each team member what they need to thrive and meet their goals. In any business, the happiness of its employees is crucial to its success so having a motivated and happy team is the most important start for any manager.
What prompted you to consider a career in technology?
Technology plays an important role in shaping the world we live in both now and in the future. Epson is investing in creating technology to address the impact of climate change, something I feel strongly about, so being a part of a technology company looking to the future for the benefit of us all is exciting and extremely gratifying.
What do you think is the best part of being a woman in the tech industry?
The technology industry is exciting and constantly changing. Success and merit are based on creativity, talent and expertise rather than gender. If you have an idea, you can bring it to life and there is an industry full of people working towards similar goals and interests rooting for you. It’s really a great space to work in.
Do you feel you have had to work harder than male colleagues to advance your career?
In my career, I have been fortunate to have worked with colleagues who have helped me learn, thrive, be innovative and prosper. Working for over three years with Epson, I have had equal opportunities to grow within my field – purely based on merit.
What motivates you every day?
I am fortunate enough to be in a position I am excited about, working for a company I believe in. Epson covers so many interesting and exciting product areas with more projects in the pipeline so there is always something going on to keep you involved and interested.
What is the best professional advice you have ever received?
The best piece of advice that I have been given is to set yourself goals. These could be small things to try to achieve every day or bigger things to aim to achieve during your career. If you always have something to work towards then you’ll always be moving towards something.
What’s next for you in terms of your career in the tech industry?
I relocated from Epson’s UK office to the Dubai office in September 2021, as the Head of Marketing for Middle East and Africa. Now, I am focused on working with both our internal and external stakeholders to ensure we obtain the best possible results for the business and our customers. In the future, I want to support the expansion of Epson’s footprint even further across the Middle East and Africa.
What are your thoughts on the next transformation in the tech industry?
The future of technology is the technology that supports sustainability. Across the region, sustainability goals are at the forefront of priorities for businesses and governments. With Epson investing 100 billion Yen into sustainable technology solutions, it is fascinating and exciting to see what is possible and what could be possible in the years to come. With such a common goal of bringing different companies together, collaboration is proving fruitful. Epson has already contributed to the development of a new form of bioplastic, Pararesin, an alternative to conventional plastic. The next transformation of the tech industry could help to save the planet and that is something all involved should be invested in and excited about.
What advice would you give to women looking to break into the field of digital technology?
Regardless of gender, people should follow their interests. Not everyone is lucky enough to work in the area that they would choose to so if you can then that’s something to be proud of. Technology companies are always looking for enthusiastic and talented people so the best advice I can give anyone is to research what you need to work in your desired field, do you need a certain degree or qualification? Can you get work experience placements or internships? Are there conferences or exhibitions you can attend to further your knowledge and network? You need to get yourself on the right track, believe in yourself and keep going.
Can you offer a few tips on achieving work-life balance in today’s scenario?
Everyone’s day to day life looks different and you need to find a balance that works for you. Whether you’re back in the office full time or working both from home and in the office, keep on top of your schedule, get a good structure in place and communicate with your manager and colleagues. If you’re ever struggling, make sure to reach out to someone you trust and tell them how you’re feeling and make sure to book out some time for yourself to relax or do something you enjoy.
