Women in tech: Meet Ahlam

In a tech industry often dominated by stereotypes, Ahlam Ouakar's journey at Datapharm is both inspiring and insightful. As a finance assistant, Ahlam thrives in a role that challenges her to innovate and grow. She was drawn to Datapharm by its commitment to leveraging data in healthcare and its collaborative culture.  

Ahlam's message to women considering a career in tech is clear - she believes women bring valuable perspectives to the industry and encourages resilience and risk-taking as key to overcoming obstacles.  

Can you briefly share your journey into the tech industry and what inspired you to pursue a career in this field?

What really inspired me could be summarised by the allure of innovation. We all know that technology is a fast-paced industry and it grows quickly, which means more opportunities to learn new things all the time. 

What is your role at Datapharm itself?

My role is Finance Assistant. And I really, really enjoy it because it's such a fun role with lots of variety. My work starts from assisting the finance team with various tasks and my key responsibilities are financial record keeping - and that is maintaining accurate, up to date financial records such as invoices, receipts, and expense reports - and also assisting with accounts payables and accounts receivables - and that is processing payments, issuing invoices and also following up outstanding payments and ensuring  timely collection.  

Another of my key responsibilities is data entry and reconciliation, which is inputting financial information into the accounting software and making sure all the accounts reconcile.  

I think one of the most fun bits about being a finance assistant is collaborating with other departments to make sure I collect and gather financial information. 

Why did you decide to apply for a role at Datapharm? 

I joined the company recently. I saw the job advert and, after doing my research, I was impressed with the company's mission to support the healthcare industry, and its commitment to leveraging data in technology and medicines information.  I was also impressed by Datapharm's collaborative approach and mission in the healthcare industry.   

And what struck you most about Datapharm when you first joined?   

What really struck me the most when I joined Datapharm was the diverse team. The Datapharm team is very diverse, which is brilliant. That translates into an inclusive culture at Datapharm, which is great. The team at Datapharm was supportive, and that's true across the whole team. Specifically, my team was very supportive, and they continue to be supportive today. Everyone was very welcoming; I received warm welcomes, and they're just very respectful people. It's so nice to work with such lovely people. 

Has anything surprised you at Datapharm?   

I’m impressed by the flexibility and autonomy that Datapharm offers and the trust that the company has in its employees. This flexibility gives us an amazing work-life balance, promoting a positive work environment. 

What words of wisdom or advice would you give to anyone thinking about working at Datapharm?  

Working at Datapharm offers a lot of opportunities and great potential for growth. To make a difference in the world of tech and be part of a collaborative team, approach your role with curiosity and enthusiasm. If you do, you'll thrive!   

I understand you also study while working for Datapharm; could you tell me a bit about that?  

Yes, I'm also doing my ATT alongside working at Datapharm. It's a great opportunity to put into practice what I'm learning in theory. I joined Datapharm four months ago with no prior experience, and I'm already receiving so much support. 

What would you say to women who are not 100% sure about a career in the tech industry?  

I would say ignore the stereotypes. Women bring great perspectives and impact to the tech world. Don't let stereotypes stop you from pursuing your career in tech if that's what you want. Also remember that setbacks are normal parts of the learning process - take risks and be resilient because resilience helps us overcome obstacles. 

What does the future of medicines information look like to you?  

It looks more digitalised and perhaps more personalised to individual needs. I see it leveraging advanced technologies like AI and prioritising transparency and patient empowerment.  

Datapharm is committed to creating an outstanding workplace which is underpinned by its culture of care, courage and collaboration. If you would like to become part of the Datapharm journey, or see our current list of vacancies, visit our careers page.