Tech-018: The Path to Lead DevOps

The end of my time at ParentPay came sooner than I expected. I wasn’t looking to leave — despite the usual daily challenges, I was mostly happy there. The people were good, the work was rewarding, and I felt like I still had more to learn and give.

Then, out of nowhere, an opportunity appeared: an internal role for Lead DevOps Engineer ...

It was Mayura who first encouraged me to apply. I was a little shocked by her suggestion. Was I really ready to step back into a leadership role, this time in such a large enterprise? Was I qualified enough?

After some reflection, I decided to take the chance. I updated my CV, submitted my application, and was invited to a first-stage interview — fittingly, with Mayura herself. She knew my work well, but interviewing with someone you work alongside every day adds a layer of pressure. I did my best to show not just my technical skills, but also my potential as a leader.

A few days later, I got the news: I’d made it to the second stage. The shock hit me all over again. Was my career about to take another leap forward?

I made it through the first stage, then the second, interviewing with Mayura and the new Director of Architecture, Dan. I was nervous, but I gave it everything I had.

After what felt like the longest week, the decision came: I was unsuccessful. Stuart had been offered the role.

The news was a blow, but also a moment of perspective. I was disappointed, yes, but I also felt oddly at peace. I still had plenty to learn, and working under Stuart as he stepped into his new leadership role gave me the opportunity to grow further with a great mentor.

Closing

For the moment, I set aside the idea of leadership. I carried on with my day-to-day role, happy to contribute, learn, and refine my craft. But as I would soon discover, sometimes the path you’re meant to take finds you.