19th August 2026

Companies House – Sara, Head of IT Services

What does your job role involve?

I’m the Head of IT Services responsible for the delivery, resilience, security, and continual improvement of Companies House digital operations. My role ensures that critical digital services and the Companies House register remain available, secure, recoverable, and fit to support both current operations and future transformation, whilst providing leadership, assurance, governance, and strategic direction across IT Services.

What made you choose a career in technology?

At the age of 16, while on the Youth Training Scheme, I realised I had a talent for finding technical solutions and quickly became the ‘go to IT person’ in the office.

Did you study an IT or technology related subject at A-Level or University?

I left school with no qualifications. I initially attended night school at college and completed some programming courses, followed by an HNC and then an HND in Computing. In 1998, I went to university and completed a part-time degree in Information Systems. I later undertook an MBA in 2007.

Did you get any work experience in IT or technology before this role?

Yes, I’ve completed numerous technical courses and qualifications throughout my more than 30 years working in technical roles.

Do you think there is a lack of females in the IT and tech sector?

There is still a clear shortage of women in many areas of IT in particular software engineering, infrastructure, cyber security, and senior technical leadership.

Do you find there is a stereotype that a career in IT or technology is just for men?

Technology is not a male profession and nor should it be it is a profession that benefits from diverse perspectives, experiences and skills. The best technology teams reflect the people and communities they serve!

What would entice women to study technology related courses?

Combining female role models, outreach to schools/colleges and offering work apprenticeship opportunities, female mentoring schemes, and visible support networks are likely to have the greatest impact.

Are there barriers when it comes to women getting into tech?

The primary barriers entering into and progressing in technology are not necessarily capability based but systemic for example stereotypes, lack of role models, unconscious bias, workplace culture and challenges around retention and progression.

How could we encourage more women to start a career in tech?

My clear messaging would be: That you don’t need an IT degree to work in Technology; these types of careers improve public services and there are many women already succeeding in IT roles who can inspire others to succeed too.