This feature is Aima Owen, a Senior Programme Delivery Manager at BT Group. Aima’s career journey involved serving in the Army for five years after university before being at BT Group. Aima shares her main technique for mitigating change: always being one step ahead.
Aima Owen: My Journey
I’m Nigerian, born and raised in Nigeria, now serving as a Senior Programme Delivery Manager at BT Group. My journey led me to the UK in 2005 for studies, completing my undergraduate degree at the University of Wolverhampton in 2008. Despite my father’s desire for me to pursue a master’s degree, I sought a different path, aiming to join the Army. My Army service began in 2009, including a memorable seven-month deployment in Afghanistan.
During my Army tenure, I met my husband, and upon our return from Afghanistan, we decided to transition out for family considerations. In 2015, we married, and I applied to Openreach and other organizations, eager for a career change. Joining Openreach as an Infrastructure Network Delivery Engineer Apprentice in 2015 marked the start of a fulfilling journey.
Despite the standard three-year apprenticeship, I completed mine in a year, driven by my prior experiences. After a brief maternity leave, I embraced a new role focused on director engagement and content creation. In 2020, I transitioned to a project management role within BT Group, a significant milestone in my career progression.
Throughout my nine-year tenure, I’ve navigated promotions, organizational changes, and family commitments, mastering the art of balancing work and personal life. My heritage instilled in me a drive for excellence and adaptability to change, crucial traits in my professional journey.
Notably, I’ve led impactful projects, particularly in fostering diversity and inclusion discussions within my unit. I believe in translating conversations into actions, driving tangible change. My Army background taught me resilience, but my current role continues to offer valuable insights and growth opportunities.
To fellow women navigating their careers, I emphasize the importance of continuous learning, resilience, and a positive attitude. With determination and openness, the possibilities are limitless.
This interview was conducted by Michelle Aboagye.
