Dominika Michalak
Current Role: Associate Data Analyst
Tesco: driven by data and people
Meet Dominika, who found her dream job in data analytics and now she’s doing work that impacts our customers, communities and the planet. Learn about the projects she’s a part of in her new role, and the support she was given to change her career path.
“I started as an Office Manager here four years ago supporting technology teams. And as someone with an analytical mind, I was always interested in the teams’ work. I truly believe that if you ‘choose a job you love, you’ll never work a day in your life’. And luckily, now I have that. Being supported to change your career isn’t exceptional at Tesco. I’m one of the many examples that you can build the career you want, in the organisation you’re already in. I didn’t want to leave because I love it here. It was a year-long process that involved loads of research, networking and learning, but now I’m an Associate Data Analyst.
The Analytics Capabilities team develop analytical products based on data we obtain, explore, and model, to support decision-making across the business. We also provide capabilities to colleagues from different departments who want to discover and analyse data within their business areas. So the team collates and hosts information and training materials on Tesco’s Knowledge Hub, where all colleagues can learn more about the data analytics applications available and upskill.
I love the work I do because every day brings a new problem to solve. It's constantly changing and so it's impossible to get bored. Of course, it can be challenging – it’s important, serious work. You’d be surprised at how easy it is to get into a 30-minute discussion about giant pumpkins. But we’re all passionate and find pleasure in solving complex problems. Plus, with the massive amounts of data a huge retailer like Tesco produces, there’s no telling what insights you’ll uncover and the powerful conclusions you’ll reach.
“Being supported to change your career isn’t exceptional at Tesco.”
I officially joined the team six months ago, so I'm still learning a lot. But I recently joined a project called Waste Governance Reporting. Tesco is dedicated to minimising food waste from production to consumption. And to support this goal, our Waste Governance team needs a better view of year-round waste and surplus data. So far, such reports have only been presented once a year, which is clearly not enough. This project is about improving that process.
We want to provide an interactive report with accuracy to the last week, which will help the Waste Governance team react faster, make better decisions, and take action throughout the year, giving Tesco an even better opportunity to reduce food waste. We have the chance to impact customers, communities and the environment with our work.
In addition, we’ve created a technical solution to improve the quality and accuracy of data, which impacts our colleagues and the business too, supporting future analysis and reducing the time colleagues spend searching and using data. My role is to support my team by conducting analysis, modelling and preparing data, and shaping final reporting dashboard. I feel like I'm already contributing to the team, even in the short time I’ve been in the role. And it’s been a fantastic experience so far.
For me, it’s not just about the work, it’s also about the people. That’s the game-changer when it comes to finding the perfect career. So many colleagues – past and present – have guided and supported me during this transition. Without them, I wouldn’t be where I am today. And I’ve made some very close friends in our Hub in Poland, who I really enjoy spending time with. There are so many personal and professional benefits to networking. Sometimes you can solve a problem very quickly over coffee and a catch up.
And I’ve been supported every step of the way; my manager gave me loads of time and encouragement to adjust and gain confidence in my role. I was assigned mentors and buddies to help me settle into my new team. I’m surrounded by tech experts who are always keen to share their knowledge and expertise. And now I’m actively working on projects, I’m continuously learning thanks to my colleagues who’ve helped me overcome obstacles.
That’s the best thing about Tesco. You’re encouraged to be innovative, open-minded, to take risks. Whatever the outcome, you’ll learn and grow. And I’ve been able to do that. I took a risk and went after my dream job. So be brave – pursue a career you’re passionate about. And if you’re yet to find out what that is, you might just discover it at Tesco.”
Being part of our Technology team means you get the time and tools to try new things. Like the ideas that make life a little better for our customers. And the career progression that makes life a little better for you, too.