HI ISMAIL, COULD YOU TELL THE READERS A BIT ABOUT YOURSELF?

Hi, I'm Ismail Osman and I work as an IT Program Manager (trainee) at Essent. In my spare time, I enjoy mentoring and empowering young professionals, helping them navigate their careers.

CAN YOU BRIEFLY SHARE A BIT ABOUT YOUR BACKGROUND AND HOW YOU GOT STARTED IN IT?

My journey began by studying Business and IT Management because I noticed that technology was becoming increasingly important in industries like Finance, Healthcare and Retail, all relying on digital tools like computers and data analysis. I saw I could play an important role bridging IT and business.

WERE THERE ANY KEY EXPERIENCES OR MENTORS THAT SHAPED YOUR JOURNEY?

Throughout my career, I looked up to people in my close circle and within Essent’s management team, both as individuals and IT professionals. They played a significant role in shaping my development.

HOW DID YOU COME TO WORK AT ESSENT?

I began my journey at Essent as a customer service advisor while pursuing my studies. As time passed, my passion for this field grew, leading me to do a school internship and eventually pursue a traineeship here.

WHAT WERE YOUR FIRST IMPRESSIONS OF THE COMPANY?

One of my initial observations was the company's focus on employee development. Essent is keen on understanding what you want to learn and how it can support it.

There are a lot of opportunities to learn from and people try to help each other. Everyone is very accessible and open. Flexibility to work hybrid is also stimulated.

COULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR CURRENT ROLE AND YOUR PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES?

I am currently working as an IT Program Manager (intern), participating in a management program called 'Accelerate Our Future’. Within that program my responsibilities involve handling financial management tasks like budgeting, analysis, reporting, and providing guidance to management during steering committee meetings.

Some of my other regular duties include organizing IT AllStaff-sessions; facilitating IT Onboarding Days for new colleagues, together with other colleagues organizing fun events and collaborating with other companies to stimulate knowledge sharing.

WHAT QUALITIES DO YOU THINK ARE MOST IMPORTANT FOR SUCCESS IN YOUR ROLE OR TEAM?

I believe in my role, success relies on key qualities. This involves defining priorities, managing financial budgets and staying organized. It's helpful to predict both short-term and long-term outcomes. Handling changes well is crucial because continuous improvement is vital for both personal and company growth.

HOW DO YOU PERCEIVE THE INTERNAL CULTURE OF YOUR TEAM?

The team has been incredibly supportive, allowing me to grow and find my place within the organization. The openness within the team enabled me to take risks and learn from various departments.

WHAT ARE SOME KEY GOALS YOU HAVE FOR THE COMING YEAR?

My goals include completing my traineeship, contributing more to the company, generating innovative ideas, and aiding my team. The overarching goal is to help Essent in becoming the tech company that drives the Digital Energy business by 2025.

HOW DO YOU MANAGE WORK-LIFE BALANCE?

I maintain a healthy work-life balance thanks to Essent's flexibility and efficient hybrid work model.

Working with multiple teams means having different schedules every week, keeping my job interesting. Other than that, I prioritize tasks and use techniques like Eisenhower's prioritization framework to categorize tasks and focus on those that align with my goals both at work and in personal life.

I also would suggest investing in self-care. Make time for activities that promote physical, mental, and emotional well-being. This could include exercise, spending quality time with loved ones, pursuing hobbies, or simply relaxing and unwinding with a book. Prioritizing self-care is essential for maintaining a healthy work-life balance.

ARE THERE ANY HABITS OR ROUTINES YOU’VE ESTABLISHED THAT CONTRIBUTE TO YOUR EFFECTIVENESS?

We regularly plan, set goals, and have check-ins with each other as part of our work culture. Also, my colleagues have flexibility in their way of working and don't stick to a strict 9-5 routine, which works well. Everyone is motivated to finish tasks efficiently.

ANY ADVICE FOR PEOPLE ASPIRING TO WORK IN YOUR FIELD OR IN A ROLE SIMILAR TO YOURS?

I recommend young professionals to consider doing a traineeship at a company where they can learn and grow. Starting work right after school might be intimidating, so this allows you to understand the company, develop skills not taught in school, and take risks. You play a central role, and the company and your colleagues will support you. It's truly one of the best investments you can make in yourself after finishing school.

We would like to thank Ismail for the time he took to speak to us, and for the insights he shares.
If you have any lingering questions for him, do not hesitate to drop a comment below. We will ensure you are promptly connected.