The Post: Director for Engineering at ESO
The Post Holder: John Fitzsimons
An interest in technology and a desire to make a difference led John Fitzsimons into his current role as Director of Engineering at ESO.
Give a brief outline of your career to date.
My career started out working in business and finance n the likes of Citi Bank and Ulster Bank. It was only when I moved to Liberty IT that I learned more about software development and honed my passion for FinTech before moving on to Allstate. Working for a consultancy was a fantastic learning experience but something was missing for me and my passion was to make a difference. When the Director of EMS role in ESO came along I had to give it everything and apply.
What was your favourite subject at school?
I had two – PE as I loved all types of sport and Geography. I was always really interested in the human side of Geography, so I found learning it easy, not to mention my mum was a Geography teacher so that helped too.
Did you go into further/higher education, if so what did you study and where?
I studied Geography in University of Ulster.
How did you get into your area of work?
I’ve had the opportunity to move into roles that facilitated growth and helped me set the groundwork to support at ESO – by seeing and taking opportunities that came up even when it made me uncomfortable and being willing to help others where I could.
Is this always what you wanted to?
I was very fortunate to have grown up with technology in my home and I’ve always been the geek or gadget man in my family, so working with technology is something I have always wanted to do. In all honesty though when I was in school I never really knew what my career path would be.
Were there any particular essential qualifications or experience needed?
Traditionally to become an engineering director you would have had to go to university and study an IT related subject but this is changing and there are a number of alternative routes into the industry, such as apprenticeships, boot camps or even being self-taught.
Are there alternative routes into the job?
I would say the route I have taken is definitely alternative, most people in my role have been software developers, whereas I am from the product side of delivery. At ESO however our mission is rooted in improving health and safety and this acts as an important driving force for employees who are able to make a difference to their own communities. Having this passion is key, everything else can be taught.
What does a typical day entail?
I commute to the office most days and the first thing I need is a caffeine boost. I then I catch up on emails that will have been coming in overnight from US and Canadian colleagues, or normally have one-to-ones slotted in with the Belfast team. Anytime we have a full office I take the time to socialise or hang around after work and get to know and understand our teams.
What are the best and most challenging aspects of the job?
The most challenging is often starting a project, at the beginning the task seems so big it’s almost impossible, but by breaking it down and seeing each part through to completion you get a real sense of achievement. On a more personal level, people management can be challenging but there’s nothing more rewarding than being able to help others on their career path.
Why is what you do important?
ESO harnesses the power of data to improve community health and safety. We support fire and emergency services to make the most informed decisions when it comes to patient care, safety, and efficiency. Working for a company with an important mission like ESO gets me up every morning. But perhaps even more so, is that all of the team at ESO value the work that they do too; they recognise that what we’re doing will leave a positive legacy on the world.
What advice would you give anyone looking to follow a similar career path?
Don’t be afraid to take opportunities that may come along. There is a saying, ‘luck is what happens when preparation and opportunity meet’. Sometimes you may feel that you are not totally ready but take the chance.
If you weren’t doing this what would you like to do?
I would love to be a travel blogger. I crave the sun so anything where I could enjoy the sun would be right up my street.
What is the one piece of advice you would give to yourself on your first day?
Build relationships and treat people how you would like to be treated. Asking questions is okay and don’t be afraid to ask for help. Finally, don’t burn your bridges it’s a small world.
Describe your ideal day off?
Spending time with my wife and our families and if we can factor in the sun somehow that would be awesome though it’s not likely in Belfast…
And finally, what’s the key to any successful job search?
Don’t pigeonhole yourself to one industry. Additionally, you never normally hit every single item a hiring manager is looking for but don’t be afraid to take the opportunity and apply. Be prepared for your interview, know about the company and hope you get a little bit luck.
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