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Women in Leadership - Selina Suri, Network Rail
Name: Selina Suri
Role: Project Manager
Company: Network Rail
Please tell us a little bit about yourself: I am a project manager working in track renewals where we take out and replace the track with new infrastructure. I started off as an industrial placement year student in Cardiff and then moved to the Graduate Scheme in London.
Why did you decide to go into your chosen field? During university, where I studied economics, I had to apply for a year placement in between my second and third year. I kind of 'fell into' project management but never looked back. It includes a bit of everything, management, leadership, engineering, finance etc.
What qualifications and work experience did you need to reach your current position? I’m not sure I 'needed' anything but it was recommended that I at least have a degree or another higher education qualification.
What do you enjoy most about your job/role? I love the people aspect of it. I like working and maintaining the relationships I currently have and also like making new ones. I also like the construction side of things where you really see what you are planning in real life.
Are there any obstacles you had to overcome in your career? Being a woman and not having an engineering background was challenging but it actually gave me confidence to believe in myself!
Why do you think it is important to have strong female representation in your industry? Because it reminds me that I can also be like that. It will remind younger girls that their dreams are realistic.
What advice would you give to those wanting to take a similar career path? Network, use your contacts, be positive and make sure people have a reason to remember you.
Is there anything else you would like to add about Women in Leadership? It really is inspiring being around other women in leadership.
