Voice of Experience: Katrina Roberts, Vice President, Acting Head of Global Network and International Consumer Technology, American Express

Katrina Roberts never envisioned herself having a career in IT, but now, after joining American Express over twenty years ago, she could never imagine herself anywhere else. Originally, Roberts planned on entering the hospitality business as a hotel manager, but after gaining some hands on experience in the industry while she was still a student, Roberts determined that was not the perfect career fit for her.

Although Roberts was still unsure of her exact career trajectory leaving college, she knew that she had a strong interest in travel and tourism. With some encouragement from her father, a Kodak employee, Roberts applied to work at American Express.

“I felt like entering a big corporation with a large travel division would help me narrow down my professional interests in this field and ultimately decide the career path I wanted to take,” explained Roberts.

Roberts advised, “It is okay if you don’t have a career plan mapped out at first. Focus on taking advantage of every opportunity that allows you to learn about yourself, your passions, and your interests.”

Career in Technology

When Roberts entered the graduate program at American Express, she had the opportunity to explore many different businesses and areas of the organization. Through this program, Roberts became interested in risk management. “I realized at that point that I am very analytical and enjoy problem solving, which are two good qualities to have in a technical career,” Roberts said.

It wasn’t until Roberts began work on a special project with the finance department that she was exposed to technology and its applications at the company. “As the business partner to the technology organization, I was able to work very closely with that team and quickly developed a deeper interest in following a technical career path,” she added.

Roberts made a connection with a colleague in technology, who alerted her to some open positions within the organization. Exuding the power of sponsorship, she explained, “I give him a lot of credit for steering me in the direction of the career I really wanted to be in and for recognizing something in me that I may not have been able to see in myself.”

While her interest in analytics and problem solving drew her to technology, it is the fast-paced, dynamic nature of the industry that keeps Roberts engaged on a daily basis. She stated, “I try to keep my knowledge and experience as broad as possible in order to keep myself fresh and relevant.”

She recalled the challenging yet exciting time in her career when she delivered her first big project –a new loyalty platform that was being unrolled to twenty-two countries across the world. “It was fun and difficult all at once,” explained Roberts, who added that the sense of achievement she felt after the successful completion of this project is unforgettable.

Roberts became a vice president 11 years ago, and she is currently the Acting Head of Global Network and International Consumer Technology. “I crave constant change,” said Roberts, “which is why technology ended up being a great fit for me.”

Outside the Office

“My family is my number one priority,” Roberts stated, “and they are the best support network of all.” In order to clear her mind, Roberts enjoys relaxing with her family and two dogs. She also is an avid runner and gardener. “These activities help me turn my brain off and find balance,” Roberts added.

Recognition for Inspiring Women in Technology

“As you progress in your career, you have the ability to affect more change within your organization and community,” said Roberts, who does exactly that through her work with the Aspire Explore IT program. “We partner with local schools and sponsor activities that give young girls exposure to technology and teach them how technology impacts the world around them,” she added.

According to Roberts, her role influencing more women in technology is something she is extremely proud of and her commitment to this cause has earned her recognition from everywoman, an organization dedicated to the advancement of women. Earlier this year, Roberts received the everywoman award for Leader of the Year in a Corporate Organisation to celebrate her achievements as an exemplary role model and influential mentor for young women in technology.

“I think it is important to fill the IT pipeline with talented women and also provide them with the tools and resources they need to navigate a successful career in the field,” explained Roberts, who was instrumental in creating the Explore IT program in the UK that is now expanding into the United States.

For Roberts, mentoring is a critical aspect of her role at American Express and in the community. “When you help someone achieve their career goals and see them develop professionally, it is one of the most gratifying experiences. Delivering projects to clients is important, but making a positive impact on the next generation of leaders also keeps me motivated each and every day,” she added.

However, Roberts emphasized that career advancement does not solely depend on who you know. “At the end of the day, it is your skills and talents that will help you progress, but excelling at your work does not mean as much if people are not aware of it,” she noted.

Advice, Role Models, and Making an Impact

“You need to find what you love to do,” said Roberts, “and if you find yourself in a career that does not ignite your passions, then you have the power to change it.”

She also stressed how important it is to step outside of your comfort zone by accepting challenging assignments. “It is in these moments that you tend to learn the most and figure out exactly what you are made of,” said Roberts.

Roberts mentioned that in her own career, she has benefitted a lot from her role models. In particular, she mentioned how much inspiration she has received watching her mother build a successful career for herself after spending many years raising her family. “At 71 years old, she runs her own business as a freelance copywriter and does work for all of the major publishing houses in the UK,” said Roberts. “She started out with very little confidence, but she pulled herself up by her bootstraps and built something out of nothing without anyone’s help.”

According to Roberts, Karren Brady, Vice-Chairman of the West Ham Football Club, is an influential businesswomen she admires. “She has carved out her place in a very male-dominated world while managing to stay authentic and honest,” Roberts noted. “These are traits I try to emulate and apply in my own career.”

Through American Express’ outreach efforts, Roberts continues to pay it forward and act as a positive role model for young people interested in pursuing a career in IT. “We are launching an apprenticeship program for 17 and 18 year olds who do not have work experience, but have identified a passion for technology,” Roberts explained. “We are helping them turn their passions and interests into a rewarding career in Information Technology.”

By Michelle Hendelman