Diversity, development and figure skating: My NTT DATA story
- June 03, 2024
Since joining NTT DATA, I've encountered a world of opportunities and challenges that have pushed me to grow as a professional. Working as a general and operational accounting analyst in Global Procurement, I handle a crucial part of our operations: validating information and processing orders to guarantee smooth payments. This role positions me between our accounts payable and delivery teams, and it gives me a unique perspective on how our company functions on a global scale.
I initially thought NTT DATA was a midsize company. However, I quickly realized that I couldn't have been more wrong. It’s a massive company. But what truly sets NTT DATA apart is its open culture and the seamless interaction it promotes across global teams.
A surprising and welcoming openness has marked my time here. I work with team members in India, report to a manager in Malaysia and regularly connect with a U.S.-based director in Texas. Despite the geographical distances, the warmth and openness in our communications make the miles seem non-existent. A few years ago, I had the pleasure of meeting our director in person, an experience that highlighted the accessible and friendly approach that NTT DATA encourages at all levels of management.
Celebrating every identity
As a proud member of the LGBTQ+ community, I've found NTT DATA to be a workplace that genuinely embraces diversity. From day one, the environment has been incredibly natural and supportive. I actively participate in the PRIDE Employee Resource Group, where we engage in initiatives that celebrate and advocate for inclusivity. This level of acceptance and support from everyone, including top management, makes me feel truly valued. My senior managers take a genuine interest in what’s happening with me, always with a positive intent. This supportive atmosphere boosts my comfort and happiness at work, which in turn inspires me to give my best and excel in my tasks.
At NTT DATA, learning is a personal endeavor, bolstered by abundant resources. The freedom to develop at your own pace, supported by state-of-the-art learning tools, allows us to advance our skills and grow professionally. This aspect of our work culture is particularly empowering for someone like me, who works 100% remotely. It teaches self-reliance while making sure we have the support we need to succeed.
From desk to rink to kitchen
Outside of work, I channel my energy into coaching figure skating. Training a team of young athletes each evening allows me to share my passion and help develop the next generation of skaters. I’m also grateful for the support my NTT DATA team members have provided, which was especially strong when I competed at the Pan American Championships and earned a third-place finish. Before I left for the competition, my director reached out to offer words of encouragement and expressed an interest in learning more about figure skating. This gesture not only gave me confidence but also fostered a sense of camaraderie that encouraged me to open up and converse with him. That’s just one example of how NTT DATA values and supports employees and our personal goals.
In my downtime, I enjoy exploring new culinary experiences, particularly Italian cuisine. I also cherish opportunities to travel and experience new cultures. I'm excited about the future, confident in the knowledge that here, I can be myself and achieve my best, supported by a global family.
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