Ian McDonald, Head of IT Optimisation & Transformation and Co-chair, Women In Tech Network at TalkTalk

Ian McDonald is a senior technology leader at TalkTalk where he has worked for over 18 years, first joining as a graduate and progressing through a variety of software development roles to head up a software engineering function of circa 150 talented people and latterly leading transformation programmes across software engineering and IT Operations. Ian feels fortunate to have been able to develop and progress as he has and is passionate around supporting others in their learning and development.

Two years ago he worked with a colleague to launch and co-chair the Women In Tech network at TalkTalk with a vision to be a gender balanced organisation, where employees are empowered to realise their full potential. They strive to achieve this by providing a community of support, to build confidence for all colleagues through internal and external connections, networking, influencing and empowering.

As an ally for Gender Equality, it is his role to challenge outdated or inappropriate attitudes, to ensure all employees feel supported, confident and can see a path to progress, but also to help break down misconceptions and stereotypes. He also works very closely with and supports the company’s other fantastic employee networks – Talk Pride, Talk Neurodiversity, Empower, Wellbeing Community and Talk Families.