Annertech l Flexible work and future-proofing your agency | Partner
For “recovering backend developer” Stella Power, a degree in computational physics and chemistry revealed a passion for problem-solving that guided her to a career in IT, a hobby with Drupal, and later, to found her digital agency Annertech.
In this video, Power shares the advice and mentorship that guided her to found her own agency, including the power of—sometimes—saying no. She also offers expert insight on leading a truly flexible workplace, discusses how Annertech’s commitment to customer experience sets the agency apart, and shares how she’s future-proofed her agency against possible disruptions.
Well-known Drupal community member and DrupalCon speaker Stella Power founded her digital agency Annertech in 2008, which has grown into Ireland’s largest, dedicated, open-source provider, recently expanding into the UK market. Power is passionate about advocating for women in STEM—a cause close to her heart, with two young daughters with an aptitude for coding.
Learn more:
https://platform.sh/common-ground-age...
Discussed in this video:
0:00 - Intro
• Stella shares her academic background in computational physics and chemistry, expressing her initial desire to become an astrophysicist.
• She recounts her introduction to Drupal and her decision to transition from physics to IT due to her passion for problem-solving and the opportunity to stay in Ireland.
1:10 - Annertech: Ireland and Drupal forever
• Stella introduces Annertech as a fully distributed Drupal digital agency based in Ireland.
• The agency focuses primarily on Drupal but also works with other technologies, offering services like design, support, and maintenance.
1:57 - Strategic managing director, recovering backend developer
• Stella describes her role as the Managing Director of Annertech, involving strategic management, account, and project management.
• She humorously refers to herself as a "recovering backend developer," indicating her transition from coding to strategic leadership.
2:31 - Lead with trust
• Stella discusses her leadership style, which emphasizes trust, autonomy, and support for her team members.
• She prefers to be a listener rather than a micromanager and encourages open communication and collaboration.
3:03 - Don’t spin too many plates
• Stella advises against spreading oneself too thin and trying to please everyone, highlighting the importance of setting boundaries and saying no when necessary.
3:32 - Getting started in tech
• Stella shares her experience as a woman in the tech industry, emphasizing the value of vocalizing skills, expertise, and willingness to learn.
• She notes the gradual improvement in gender balance within her agency and the wider industry.
4:50 - Distributed, flexible business model from the get-go
• Stella discusses Annertech's distributed and flexible work model, which accommodates individuals with disabilities or family commitments.
• She acknowledges that while remote work presents challenges, it also offers accessibility and diversity benefits.
5:33 - Building an agency portfolio
• Stella talks about Annertech's client portfolio diversification, including work in the charity, public sector, and corporate domains.
• The agency's focus on multiregion and multilingual projects helps mitigate risks during economic downturns.
6:10 - “The great exodus” to Platform.sh
• Stella recounts Annertech's transition to Platform.sh for hosting, describing it as a pivotal decision that enhanced efficiency and developer onboarding.
• Platform.sh's powerful CLI and integration with internal tools streamlined project management and development processes.
7:33 - A commitment to clients and to customer experience
• Stella highlights Annertech's commitment to customer experience and ongoing support, distinguishing the agency from firms that focus solely on project delivery.
• The agency aims to optimize and tailor solutions to meet clients' evolving business requirements.
8:09 - Recession? Diversify your portfolio
• Stella advises agencies to diversify their client portfolios to mitigate risks during economic downturns.
• Diversification across sectors and markets ensures stability and resilience in the face of changing business landscapes.
8:47 - Any job becomes easier if you work with good people
• Stella expresses gratitude for her supportive team at Annertech, emphasizing the importance of working with people who make challenging tasks easier.
• She reflects on the positive aspects of her job and the fulfillment derived from working with a supportive team.
9:15 - Go for it!
• Stella encourages individuals to pursue their career aspirations without hesitation, citing her own decision to start Annertech despite uncertainties.
• She advises against letting self-doubt or fear hold back opportunities for growth and success.
Watch video Annertech l Flexible work and future-proofing your agency | Partner online without registration, duration hours minute second in high quality. This video was added by user Platform.sh 08 June 2023, don't forget to share it with your friends and acquaintances, it has been viewed on our site 49 once and liked it 0 people.