Navigating career and creativity at NTT DATA

I joined NTT DATA in 2011 initially as a contractor. I was hired full-time in Marketing and Communications the following year. And it didn’t take me long to realize how different this job would be. Before NTT DATA, I’d never experienced this kind of versatility — especially with such a supportive team — in my professional career. On the Creative Team, I was able to carve out a unique niche for myself, blending my design talents and interests with my analytical and project management skills.

Day to day, I design various types of marketing collateral while collaborating with a team of very talented designers. It feels more like a community of creatives supporting and learning from each other than anything. Through them, I’ve gotten to explore other creative disciplines, like photography and video. I appreciate their guidance so much, as it’s allowed me to step outside of my comfort zone and pursue new opportunities.

I serve as an admin for our project management tool, Adobe Workfront, where we take requests for new creative work and track project progress. A big part of that is connecting with the larger Marketing team weekly in calls that I’ve set up as open “office hours” for user support and project ideation.

I also facilitate the onboarding of creative agency vendors. Anyone who’s ever worked with an agency before knows that projects can quickly go sideways without oversight. My role is to create a solid foundation for every new relationship. This helps reduce friction and ensure a smooth collaboration between the Creative Team and our external partners. Juggling these tasks means that I almost never know what a typical day is going to look like. Minute to minute, I might be flexing my creative muscles by designing a booth for a high-profile industry event or meeting with team members to ensure that a project stays on track. It really speaks to the work culture at NTT DATA, which lets individuals take on roles that truly reflect their skills and passions.

Leading others

One of my proudest moments at NTT DATA was when I used my background as a certified life coach — requiring over 325 hours of training — to help reimagine our marketing internship program. I wanted to create the program that I wish I had when I was first starting out. The result: A hands-on approach with weekly coaching sessions for interns, both one-on-one and in a group, to provide the support they need when entering the workforce.

I also had the idea to bring together interns from across departments for an intensive event where they could learn soft skills, review their resumes and participate in mock interviews. The event was a resounding success and has since been replicated by the Talent Acquisition team.

My input into the internship program was so effective that I was recognized by leadership and given the honorary title of Marketing Intern Program Director. From our Vice Presidents to the Chief Marketing Officer, the leaders I’ve worked with at NTT DATA really listen and support your ideas. This helps to maintain that culture where everyone feels valued — like I’ve felt in my career here.

Work-life harmony

Outside of work, you can usually find me spending time with my family and friends. Recently, we celebrated the arrival of a new family member when my oldest nephew became a father! I've been spending a lot of time in Houston, getting to know the newest little joy in our lives. I also LOVE dancing and once performed for six years with a salsa dance company.

My Creative Team colleagues have become much like family to me after more than a decade of working together. They’re always there to encourage and support me in all my endeavors. It’s rare to find this kind of connection where you can continue to grow and change and celebrate with your teammates over the years.

NTT DATA’s commitment to creating a supportive and dynamic work culture means people want to stick around — and find a path that’s professionally fulfilling and personally rewarding.

I, for one, am excited for what comes next. To learn more, explore our careers page.