Empowering Excellence: Women Thriving as Business Analysts
In the ever-evolving landscape of business and technology, women have been breaking barriers and making their mark in key positions. We spoke to Ruandi Schoeman, a Senior Business Analyst at Optimi Group and a shining example of how women are not only excelling but also thriving in traditionally male-dominated fields.
We explore her experiences as she gives insights into how she navigates her career as a business analyst and highlights the challenges she’s faced, the progress she’s witnessed, and her perspectives on the industry’s inclusivity.
Embracing the Multifaceted Role of a Business Analyst
Being a business analyst isn’t just a job; it’s a dynamic role that encompasses various responsibilities. Ruandi describes it as wearing multiple hats: acting as a project manager, requirements gatherer, negotiator, data analyst, and more. A business analyst serves as the bridge connecting business objectives with technical solutions. In her words, “We work with many different people – from operational teams and developers to exco members and service providers.”
The Challenge of Effective Communication
As Brené Brown puts it, “Clear is kind.” Effective communication is a cornerstone of success for any professional, but especially when you deal with multiple stakeholders like in the case of a business analyst. Ruandi admits that getting communication right has been her biggest challenge as she continues in her journey to mastering it over time.
Changing Dynamics in the Tech Industry
The tech industry’s reputation as a male-dominated field has been slowly evolving, and Ruandi’s observations align with this transformation. According to her, the industry is shifting towards a culture that values work ethic and skill over gender. This perspective is heartening and indicative of a more inclusive future, where talent and expertise are recognised and celebrated, irrespective of gender.
A Positive Outlook on Gender Pay Gaps
Although the topic of the gender wage gap is often met with discontentment, Ruandi’s experiences provide some optimism. In her industry, gender pay gaps are not as prevalent. This is a positive reflection of the strides being made towards a fair and equitable workplace, where remuneration is determined by skills, contributions, and experience rather than gender.
Her journey towards honing her craft and becoming a specialist in her field required the power of determination, resilience, and adaptability. As we celebrate women like Ruandi, we’re reminded that diversity fosters innovation and progress, and that women continue to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of business and technology.