Welcome to our latest blog post! In this conversation, we will talk to a highly successful IT Director, Ranuka Angammana, who has climbed the ranks to reach the top of his career. He will share his insights and experiences on what it takes to succeed in the competitive world of I.T.
The I.T. industry is a highly competitive and rapidly evolving field. According to recent statistics, only a tiny percentage of I.T. professionals make it to the top of their Careers.
So, without further ado, let’s dive into this conversation, learn from the IT Director’s success story, and find out what it takes to reach the top of your Career in I.T.
What motivated you to pursue a career in I.T., and what has kept you motivated throughout your career?
What motivated you to pursue a career in I.T., and what has kept you motivated throughout your career?
Well, my motivation started when I left school in 2000. At that time, the term I.T. ( Information Technology ) was something new to our ears, and only a few knew about this term. During that time, I didn’t even bother to touch a computer. There was a professor who came to my motherland, Sri Lanka, and we had an introduction conference about what Information technology is all about and endless things that it can do and what opportunities are waiting for us in the coming future. After that, I was so fascinated by this, and I had the privilege to pursue my studies in the Management of Information Technology field.
What are some of the most rewarding aspects of working in I.T., and how do you stay engaged and motivated in your role?
Every second, technology changes and something new is introduced to the world; because of this, demand comes in various ways for you, and it depends on your personal technical skills as well. You need to keep up to date with new technology happenings every moment you got. That Is a crucial factor when you are in this field. Then only you will be able to show and teach others about exciting new trends. Most of all, you can solve technology-related issues and advise people on how it should be done. That’s where it makes me motivated in the role.
The Information Technology field is a vast subject, mainly categorised into 2 criteria: System Administration and programming. I selected system administration to move forward with my career.
What essential skills or qualities have helped you succeed in your career, and how have you developed or cultivated these skills?
Hardworking with enthusiasm, dedication towards work, and time management are crucial to achieving success in life and developing the required skills. Consistency to mindset, especially time management with Plan
What advice do you have for those looking to grow their Career in I.T.?
Nowadays, I.T. skills are required in almost all sectors or organisations. Still, if someone wishes to grow in the field, one can develop a career in software development, Cloud architecture, Big Data, AI, D.B., networking, security, compliance, etc. Opportunities exist for all streams, and the hospitality or Health sector is also overgrowing.
Can you share any examples of how you have supported the professional development of your team members or helped them advance their careers in the department?
As I have been working with Rotana Company for almost 15 years as an IT Director, in those years so, many teams’ members work under my supervision become managers or Director of I.T. To be exact, a total of 5 members are now I.T. Directors who I am so proud of.
What are some of the most exciting or innovative projects you have worked on in your career, and how did they challenge or inspire you?
My excitement is to do pre-opening projects for hotels and resorts. I have been part of 5 major hotel openings in our company, such as Fujairah Rotana Resort and Spa and YAS 2 Hotels, to name a few.
How do you stay current on the latest trends and technologies in the field, and how do you think these trends will shape the future of I.T.?
Here Learning is a significant factor; we need to upgrade ourselves with the latest trends and technology to stabilise our careers. Attending technology conferences is vital, and exchanging ideas with your technical peers in the market is also essential.
What do you think sets your department apart from others in the field, and what makes it an exciting workplace?
Being Intellectually Curious, developing Strong Ethics, Integrity, Being a person of your word, having Good follow-up skills and completing projects on time.
How do you foster a positive and supportive culture within your department, and what role do you think culture plays in the success of an I.T. team?
1. Clarify All Roles and Responsibilities, 2. Clarify Goals and Objectives, 3. Let Individuals Use Their Best Skills, 5. Cultivate Thinking as a Team, 6. Encourage the Team to Hold Each Other Accountable, 7. Engage the Team in Group Decision-Making, 8. Focus on Effective Communications
What are some of the biggest challenges you have faced in your career, and how did you overcome them?
Challenges are limitless, and overcoming all the challenges is required as an I.T. specialist. To think positively during critical situations and get issues resolved quickly as possible, you should always have 2 options as a backup.
In conclusion, Ranuka’s success results from his hard work, determination, and willingness to continuously learn and adapt to new technologies. He is a testament to the fact that with a clear career plan and a strong work ethic, anyone can succeed in the I.T field. His insights and advice provide valuable guidance for anyone looking to pursue a career in I.T. or advance in their current role. It is evident that staying up-to-date with industry trends and developing diverse skills is crucial for success in the field. Additionally, the Director of I.T.’s emphasis on strong communication and teamwork highlights the importance of collaboration in the workplace. We hope this interview has provided valuable insights and inspiration for readers looking to succeed in their careers.
