Ever wondered what it's like to work at one of Greater Manchester's leading tech employers?
Sadie is an aspiring Project Manager at Naimuri.
We spoke to her to find out more about this role, her experience at Naimuri, and what an average day looks like.
Name: Sadie H
Company: Naimuri
Job Title: Aspiring Project Manager
What does a typical day look like for you now, and how does it differ from your earlier days as an EA supporting the SLT?
A typical day for me is varied and dynamic, balancing executive support with broader organisational projects. I coordinate diaries, manage correspondence, and organise meetings for the SLT, ensuring everything runs smoothly. Alongside this, I support recruitment activities,helping manage candidate communications, and assisting with onboarding.
This differs from my earlier days as an EA in that I’m now more involved in projects and process improvements, applying skills I’m developing through my project management apprenticeship. The foundations I built as an EA,attention to detail, prioritisation, and proactive communication are now applied in a wider context, allowing me to contribute to planning, stakeholder engagement, and successful project outcomes.
You’ve taken a non-linear route into project management — what motivated you to pursue an apprenticeship and make the transition into a PM role?
I wanted to push myself out of my comfort zone and see how the skills I developed as an EA such as prioritisation, stakeholder communication and juggling competing demands could be applied in a broader context. The apprenticeship offered the perfect route to do that, giving me a fresh perspective on project management while letting me contribute more directly to the company’s success. I enjoy seeing the tangible impact of projects I’m involved in, and the apprenticeship is helping me build the knowledge and confidence to make that transition fully.
Which skills from your time as an Executive Assistant have been most valuable in your work as a Project
The skills I developed as an Executive Assistant have been incredibly valuable as I make my move into project management. Strong organisation and prioritisation will help me keep projects on track, while clear and proactive communication ensures stakeholders are informed and engaged in the agile Naimuri way. Juggling competing demands and tight deadlines as an EA has prepared me for managing multiple project tasks simultaneously. I’ve also gained a solid understanding of governance processes from supporting the SLT, which helps me follow the right procedures, provide accurate data for decision making, and ensure projects meet organisational standards.
What’s been the biggest challenge in transitioning roles, and how did you overcome it?
The biggest challenge I anticipate in transitioning from an EA role is building confidence in my ability to bring a team together and lead aspects of projects. I know this is something I’ll continue to develop, and I plan to do so by working closely with stakeholders and contributing to project planning. I’m also learning that I don’t need to know everything,working in an agile environment means things will always change and goal posts will move, so adaptability and learning on the go will be essential. Embracing this approach will help me take initiative, support the team effectively and focus on outcomes rather than having all the answers.
Can you share a moment where you realised, “I belong in tech”?
I think from the very start, about five years ago, I realised straight away,I belong here. We have such a fantastic team, no question is ever seen as stupid and people genuinely want to see you succeed. They have your back, support your learning, and help you gain the skills you need. Coming from a healthcare background, tech was completely new to me, and I still don’t know all the lingo, but I never feel out of place. I’m always learning, and that sense of growth and support made me realise this is exactly where I’m meant to be.
What advice would you give to women considering a career change or a ‘squiggly’ path into tech or project management?
Get stuck in! The tech community is one of the most welcoming and friendly I’ve ever encountered. People genuinely want to build each other up, are incredibly inclusive, and are happy to teach you new skills along the way. It’s honestly the best move I ever made, and I can’t see myself anywhere else. From the Managing Director to the software developers, everyone is keen to support and help you grow.
Thank you Sadie!
To find out more about careers at Naimuri, click here.
