Dawn Devonald

"The Influencer in me enjoys the challenge of working in a technical industry but having to mediate and facilitate people who are not technical. Being able to explain the benefits of technical things to a room of non-specialists is vital to gain support for changes I want to see implemented. The Quality Controller part of my brain is great for ensuring that contract or product documents are accurate. My Trainer aspect is passionate about providing a great service for our customers and sharing technical knowledge to make that happen."

"I provide a voice for TalkTalk by representing them at telecoms industry meetings that are held by our regulator (Ofcom & the OTA) and our main supplier (Openreach). I give feedback at the meetings and ensure that TalkTalk's best interests are fully represented.Naming the best part of my job is a tough call as I love the challenge of how quickly the industry changes. Being part of building the original TalkTalk network and service was certainly that. It was an amazing feeling knowing that we were absolutely changing the way that voice and broadband services were sold in the UK. In TalkTalk you would usually see people getting involved in some industry activity before moving into it full time. From my role there are various opportunities to progress, such as a move into leading the team or specialising in regulatory or political work. I travel to London a lot as most of the regulatory work is done there and I get to work in the Ofcom office which has a fabulous view over the River Thames."

"I left college without a job to go to. I was put on a new training course learning how to build computers and networks to help me find a job. At the end of my course I was very lucky to get an interview with a broadband supplier (Telewest - now Virgin) who were just starting to provide a high-speed connection. They took a chance on me, gave me a lot of training and I started my journey in IT. After a couple of years I was hired by a little company called Opal Telecom who were providing voice services to businesses. That little company became TalkTalk and I've been with them ever since, mainly in technical roles, ending up in Industry Engagement.Marie, the lady that gave me the job at Opal, took a chance on me knowing I had little experience, but seeing that I was able to learn quickly, was passionate about doing a good job, and had some common sense to apply. Her guidance set me up in the business but she also helped me to gain confidence in my skills and abilities and to believe in myself."

"I still love archaeology and history. I do archaeological digs when I can and volunteer at a National Trust property. I'm a big fan of exploring new places so am always planning my next big travel adventure."

"Some days I will attend a meeting that covers lots of different topics. I ensure that each suggestion works for TalkTalk and challenge ones that may not. After the meeting I will feedback and update various colleagues in the business and get their feedback on the discussions. Other days I may be required to read and compose a response to a consultation document on a major change that may happen. The variety of the work I do is great and I love the challenge of the fast pace of change and learning something new every day!"

"Secondary education (GCSE/O-Levels)Post secondary education (College, A-levels, NVQ3 or equivalent)Undergraduate degree (BSc, BA, etc.) Archaeology "