Since then, he has progressed through multiple technology leadership roles spanning infrastructure, operations and service delivery. Today, he leads iNova’s global technology infrastructure and operations function, supporting the business across multiple regions.
We spoke with Nik about the pivotal moments in his career, the mentors who shaped his leadership approach and the experiences that helped him transition from a technical specialist into a business leader.
Q: You joined iNova in 2015 as a Service Desk Analyst. Looking back, how has your career evolved since then?
My journey with iNova began in 2015 when I joined as a Service Desk Analyst. It was a fantastic opportunity to learn the business, understand how technology supports our people and build strong relationships across the organisation. After gaining experience in frontline IT support, I progressed to Infrastructure & User Support Team Leader, where I began leading teams and taking responsibility for broader technology services.
In 2018, I moved into the role of IT Service Delivery Manager, overseeing technology operations and service delivery while helping drive improvements across our IT environment and employee experience. In 2023, I was promoted to Group Technology Infrastructure & Operations Director, my current role.
Today, I lead global technology infrastructure and operations across multiple regions, with responsibility for cloud services, cybersecurity, workplace technology, service management and IT operations.
Looking back over the past 11 years, I’ve been fortunate to grow my career through a combination of new opportunities, supportive leaders and a willingness to continuously learn and take on new challenges.
Q: What were some of the key experiences that helped shape your career progression?
Several experiences have played an important role in my development, but one of the most significant was being involved in several mergers and acquisitions over the years.
Through these projects, I gained exposure to many aspects of the business beyond technology and had opportunities to collaborate with stakeholders across different functions, regions and cultures. I learned how to integrate people, processes and technology while balancing business continuity with organisational change. This strengthened my leadership skills, broadened my commercial understanding and reinforced the importance of adaptability, communication and collaboration during periods of transformation.
Another important factor was the opportunity to take on progressively broader responsibilities and lead strategic projects. This encouraged me to think beyond day-to-day operations, develop a more strategic mindset and better understand how technology can enable business growth and success.
Q: What has motivated you to continue building your career at iNova?
The biggest motivator has been the ability to keep learning, take on new responsibilities and contribute to the business in different ways.
Throughout my career, iNova has supported me in building new skills, taking on greater responsibility and contributing to important business initiatives.
Equally important are the people. I’ve worked alongside talented colleagues and supportive leaders who have encouraged me to step outside my comfort zone and pursue new challenges. The culture of collaboration and continuous improvement has made iNova a place where I’ve wanted to build a long-term career.
Q: What skills have been most important in helping you grow into your current role?
Technical expertise provided a strong foundation early in my career, but leadership, communication and strategic thinking have been equally important in helping me grow into my current role.
One of the biggest contributors to my development has been a commitment to continuous learning. Technology is constantly evolving and I’ve always been passionate about improving systems and infrastructure to ensure the business remains secure, efficient and future-ready.
More recently, I’ve focused on understanding and leveraging Artificial Intelligence, exploring how it can enhance productivity, support better decision-making and create value across the business.
Q: How have mentors and colleagues influenced your journey?
I’ve been fortunate to work with many talented people throughout my career at iNova. One of the most influential has been a long-time manager and mentor who consistently challenged me to think beyond my immediate responsibilities, embrace new opportunities and approach decisions from a broader business perspective.
That support and guidance helped shape my leadership style and gave me the confidence to step outside my comfort zone and take on larger, more strategic responsibilities.
I’ve also learned a great deal from colleagues across the business. Their diverse experiences and perspectives have contributed significantly to my growth, both professionally and personally.
Q: What has been the biggest challenge you’ve had to overcome?
One of the biggest challenges was transitioning from being primarily focused on technology delivery to becoming a broader business leader.
As my responsibilities grew, I needed to shift my mindset from solving technical problems myself to enabling teams, making strategic decisions and influencing outcomes across the organisation.
Learning how to balance operational demands with long-term planning while supporting teams through periods of change was challenging but ultimately one of the most rewarding parts of my development journey.
Q: What achievement are you most proud of?
I’m most proud of the teams we’ve built along the way. Watching people develop new skills, take on new responsibilities and progress in their own careers has been one of the most rewarding aspects of my journey.
Together, we’ve also modernised technology platforms, strengthened cybersecurity capabilities, improved employee experiences and built a resilient technology foundation that supports our business across multiple countries.
Q: What advice would you give to employees looking to grow their careers at iNova?
Be ambitious, stay curious and never stop learning.
Career growth doesn’t happen by chance. It comes from consistently delivering results, taking ownership and being willing to step outside your comfort zone. Don’t wait for opportunities to come to you. Seek feedback, take on new experiences and continue building your capabilities.
Technology, business and the world around us are constantly evolving. Those who embrace change, continuously improve and stay ahead of emerging trends, including AI and digital innovation, will create the greatest opportunities for themselves.
Most importantly, be patient and persistent. Success is never built overnight. If you work hard, remain adaptable and consistently add value, career progression will follow.
