Corrinne: Prioritise family without sacrificing career growth

Dar es Salaam. Corrinne Mtumbuka is the current interim chief information officer (CIO) at Diamond Trust Bank Tanzania PLC. She manages the day-to-day information technology function of the bank as well as cybersecurity and IT-related projects.

Her academic journey began with a passion for technology and a determination to excel in a field that shapes the future. She holds a bachelor’s degree in computer science, a master’s degree in IT project management, and is currently a Ph.D. candidate in computer science at the University of Dar es Salaam (UDSM).

“These qualifications laid the foundation for my career, equipping me with both the technical skills and the strategic insights necessary to navigate the complexities of information technology and its application in the world around us,” she said.

Her entry into the banking industry was a blend of strategic positioning and seizing opportunities. She started in a project management role, focusing on digital transformation projects, which opened the door to more strategic positions within the financial industry.

This was after several years in the technology sector, and she was drawn to the dynamic intersection of technology and finance. Throughout her career journey, she has been able to advocate for digital transformation, pioneer cybersecurity measures, and mentor the next generation of women in STEM.

“As a woman in a senior IT role within the banking industry, I see my journey as trailblazing. It is not just about occupying a space in a male-dominated field but about the impact and changes I have been able to drive forward,” said Corrinne.

Commenting on her roles as the interim CIO, she said she oversees three critical areas, which are core IT, which ensures the bank’s IT infrastructure is not only robust but also adaptive to the fast-evolving banking environment.

Another role is cybersecurity; she safeguards the bank’s digital assets against increasing cyber threats, implements cutting-edge security measures, and fosters a culture of cybersecurity awareness.

She also manages IT-related projects, particularly those aimed at digital innovation and improving the customer experience. This involves coordinating with various stakeholders to align technology initiatives with the bank’s strategic goals.

Corrinne calls upon young girls currently pursuing science-related courses; she said their passion and dedication can break barriers. The world needs girls with innovation, perspective, and intellect.

“Engage with mentors, join supportive communities, and view challenges as opportunities to grow and make your mark. Your contributions are essential, and your path will inspire the next generation of women in STEM,” said Corrinne.

She said that at her organisation, through her roles, she inspires inclusion with a multi-faceted approach that leverages both her role as a leader and the collaborative culture of the organisation.

Commenting on how she entered the IT industry, she said that the IT industry requires resilience, determination, and a continuous learning mindset. Early in my career, she sought out mentors, engaged in professional networks, and took on challenging projects to prove her capabilities.

“I focused on building a strong technical foundation while also developing soft skills such as leadership and strategic thinking, which were crucial for navigating the gender dynamics in IT,” she said.

Balancing a demanding career with family life is a continuous journey of prioritising, delegating, and setting boundaries.

She relies on a supportive system, efficient time management, and the principle that quality time with family is non-negotiable. It is about making the most of the moments we have together and ensuring my family knows they’re my top priority.

She said the balance also extended to her free time, where she channels her passion for giving back to the community. She is dedicated to mentoring youth and delivering talks on entering STEM careers. The mentoring aspect is both fulfilling and enriching, contributing to her sense of balance and wellbeing.

“I aim to demystify the path to STEM for young people, showing them that it is a journey filled with opportunities and challenges that can be navigated successfully. My message is clear: don’t be intimidated by STEM fields; embrace them. Many have walked this path successfully, and so can you,” said Corrinne.

With the aim of inspiring inclusion using her roles at the bank, she leads by example by recognising the power of visibility and representation. By sharing her own experiences, challenges, and successes, she inspires others and demonstrates that inclusion is not just a policy but a practice that leads to innovation and excellence.

“Leading by example also means advocating for work-life balance, recognising the diverse needs of our workforce, and promoting policies that support healthy work-life integration,” she said.

Commenting on this year’s theme, Inspire Inclusion, for the commemoration of International Women’s Day 2024 resonates deeply with my commitment to creating an inclusive ICT sector.

By implementing these strategies, I aim to not only inspire inclusion within my organisation but also contribute to a broader cultural shift towards diversity and equity in the tech industry and beyond, she said.