Emily S's story

Tell us about your role?

The job title ‘product owner’ can often receive blank stares! In short, I work with colleagues across the firm identifying, documenting and scoping-out growth areas. I spend time researching and trialling solutions, including engaging with external suppliers. I am here to support Brodies colleagues, to address process improvements, and drive innovation and technical advancement across the firm.

What motivates you?

Helping people and solving problems. I find it genuinely rewarding to complete a task that eases someone’s workload, improves their day, or enables them to do something they couldn’t do before.

Morning routine

Make sure the cats are fed and I have my coffee, then I log in for the day. First thing is to check my calendar and focus myself for the day – this includes writing a prioritised to-do list of my outstanding activities.

Afternoon routine

My afternoon is a combination of scheduled/adhoc meetings, and hands on work. I often have several calls a day catching up on existing projects, meeting new colleagues and identifying new innovation areas. When not on the phone I will be working to scope and build solutions and documentation, and to investigate and review new software.

Evening routine

Most evenings are simple. I cook dinner with my boyfriend, and relax in front the TV with my 2 cats and my crochet. If I am feeling energetic I might throw in a run.

What's your top tip for someone keen to pursue a similar career?

People say that “there is no stupid question”. In this role I truly believe and live by this. Every day you will be learning about a new role or process, or perhaps a completely new industry. Asking those so-called stupid questions shows you’re interested and that you’re doing the best job you can.

Apart from the necessary skills and knowledge, what other quality is essential for the role you perform?

The ability to adapt to change – no two days will ever look the same. Projects will emerge and evolve daily, and priorities will often conflict. Be prepared to reassess and reset your focus often.

What do you enjoy most about working at Brodies?

As cliché as it sounds, it really is the people. I can confidently say that we have a wonderful group of colleagues working here. Everyone approaches their work in different ways, shaped by who they are and what they value – it's this diversity that makes Brodies so special.

What is the most interesting project you’ve worked on?

I currently work on a number of our AI initiatives within the firm, which is super exciting. It’s an area of technology that is evolving so fast and reshaping how we approach work.

If you could swap jobs with any fictional character for a day, who would it be?

I would choose Violet Sorrengail from the Fourth Wing Saga. Dragon rider – or more formally, "military flight officer and field strategist". The job involves bonding with a dragon, flying into battle, and outmanoeuvring enemies. In other words, someone who goes to work on a fire-breathing dragon – and I think that speaks for itself.

Interested in a career as a product owner?

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