In the series TOPIC Women@Work we highlight some of our female colleagues, focusing on their expertise, vision, and the unique advantages they bring as women in their work field.
In this edition, we talk with Britta Claes, Business Manager at TOPIC. She shares how she supports a team of 35 engineers, builds strong client relationships, and balances work and family life. All while navigating the tech world from a non-technical background.
As a Business Manager, my role is versatile and people-focused. I primarily coach and guide our engineers in their personal development, helping them take meaningful steps in their careers. In addition, I manage our client relationships. From regular evaluations and feedback sessions, to identifying new opportunities and projects, and supporting sales efforts.
As Business Management team, we’re also closely involved in the recruitment process, believing that early engagement helps us quickly match candidates’ strengths and interests with the right projects. This helps ensuring a strong fit from the start.
I get so much energy from connecting with colleagues. It is great to support colleagues in their growth, watch them discover and develop their talents, and contribute to their career paths. Seeing them grow is incredibly rewarding, but also the strong collaboration within the team makes my work especially meaningful.
A genuine interest in people, clear communication, and empathy are key. This mix, together with my problem solving skills, help me understand situations quickly and to connect the dots easily. Also being well-organized is something that helps me stay on top of things in this dynamic environment.
It can definitely bring challenges, especially in a tech-driven environment. But I’ve learned to lean into my strengths and be honest about where I need support. That self-awareness helps me work more effectively. I focus on connecting the right people, asking the right questions, and staying curious. Because that’s how I continue to learn and grow.
I have a strong support network around me, which is especially important with a toddler at home. Balancing work and personal life can be challenging at times, but I genuinely gain energy from my work so it rarely feels out of balance. I manage my own schedule, allowing me to plan work hours as needed, and I really appreciate the trust and support I receive from TOPIC in that regard.
I’m excited about TOPIC’s plan for growth in the coming years, and how we will achieve this together as a team. One of the key aspects for me is keeping strong connections, with our people and our clients, as we grow.
