Amy Gorbell

Internal Marketing & Communications Manager.

Hi, I'm Amy Gorbell, Internal Marketing & Communications Manager. I've been working at Utilize for just over 15 years.

Tell us about your career path and what’s led you to the role you’re in today?

I’ve been lucky enough to enjoy a variety of roles during my time at Utilize. I started in a temporary position in accounts helping to clear a backlog of paperwork. During this time, I was approached to join the Service Desk, fielding calls from Clients and dealing with printer repairs. I then became Service Desk Manager for a number of years, helping the department to grow its numbers, before then becoming the Office Manager. This role naturally progressed into the Internal Marketing & Communications Manager which I am thoroughly enjoying to date.

What does a typical day in the life of an Internal Marketing & Communications Manager involve?

A typical day in my role might see me editing our monthly newsletter, preparing it for internal distribution, or producing our monthly company update which is broadcast live to staff. It could also include liaising with food vendors to setup our next #FeedTheTeam event or chairing our monthly Staff Engagement Committee meeting.

What do you love most about your job at Utilize?

I love that no two days are the same and that I’m constantly dealing with new challenges, which plays well to my short attention span!

What has been the highlight of your career at Utilize so far?

Helping to organise our first Utilize Christmas Conference and Celebration in 2016 is worth a mention. But my favourite personal highlight is from November 2018, when I was shortlisted for the “Role Model of the Year” category at the Women in IT Excellence Awards in London. Just to be recognised by my peers who felt I was worthy of nomination for this award was flattering enough, but to then be shortlisted as a finalist amongst Doctors, Directors and CEOs simply amazed me, and still does to this day! It was a real ‘pinch me’ moment and something I always look back on for a boost if I ever doubt my abilities.

Amy Gorbell is a finalist in ‘Women In IT Excellence’ awards

What have you done to support your career development within Utilize?

During my time with the company, I have taken on additional responsibilities, asked for more and pushed myself outside of my comfort zone. I have found that listening to people and taking feedback onboard is always constructive.

What do you think are the secrets behind getting to where you’ve got to?

Showing up for myself and always being present in the room – whether in person or virtually. I think holding myself accountable and being congruent helps too.

What skills/attributes do you feel are essential for someone interested in your role?

Having good people skills is a must. The ability to communicate with all types of personalities is also a big advantage. My role requires a willingness to continuously learn and switch easily between working individually and as part of a team.

What advice would you give young people who want to pursue a career in IT?

At college I studied AS Level Art and Photography and for a long time was unsure which career path I wanted to take. I eventually fell into my temp job here at Utilize and a whole new world that I had never considered, opened up to me. My advice, especially for young women and girls, would be to embrace the IT world even if you aren’t sure. It’s not all computer programming, AI and cyber security. There is a role for anyone and everyone.