Julia Westland, about me and my approach

A little about me

I started my career helping businesses and developing countries use technology & data analytics to increase sales, reach new markets, and stamp out corruption (The World Bank, Fulbright Fellowship, Accenture). These experiences had people and culture at the heart, and they are what I most enjoyed. 

Later in my career at The Boston Consulting Group I worked on a ground-breaking project to create a culture and operating model for technology & data analytics experts to build successful careers at what had been a traditional strategy company. I also introduced and ran new products and services including BCG’s Big Data business (now BCGX) which grew to $100M before I left. 

In 20+ years working at the intersection of business strategy and technology – from established businesses to running my own start up – I saw first-hand that no matter how good the product or idea, having the right team is what really drives success. So, I joined Spencer Stuart, a renowned leadership consulting and executive search firm, and advised CEOs and executive leadership teams on critical data analytics, digital, product and tech talent decisions. 

As a headhunter, I was one of the few with deep subject matter expertise. I decoded and articulated digital, data analytics, tech and security experience in business value terms that my clients responded to. I drew connections from clients’ problems to candidates’ unique skills and abilities in a way they related to, and as a result, my clients nearly always agreed to meet the candidate. Then I’d work with the candidates to prepare for each interview and negotiated the package to get the best outcome for both. Elated each time my “reboot” approach delivered massive results for candidates and clients - I knew I had to do more of this and left to focus on helping leaders find their dream role. 

How can I help you?

Your journey to your dream job is unique: your motivations, how to get started and the steps to take to succeed will vary. You may already be on the executive team but feel something is missing, or it could be that you’re new to a leadership role and want to plan out your career path. No two starting points or destinations are the same. 

Perhaps you aren’t sure what your dream job in data analytics / AI, digital, product, technology or security could be, we can work together on that. If you feel stuck in your current role and want a total career reboot I can help. From a CV that gets noticed, to an important interview, to negotiating your package let’s get you ready to win. 

Based on 20+ years of experience working with thousands of senior leaders in data analytics/AI, product, digital, technology and security at executive and non-exec levels I developed a step-by-step approach that is practical, tailored to these unique roles and gets results. REBOOT gives you the tools to get the right people’s attention to get interviews and turns interviews into offers. 

From the REBOOT programme to 1:1 on call support – when it comes to a role in data analytics / AI, product, digital or technology I can help. I have helped leaders get opportunities and offers they never thought possible. Together we can do this!

Some FAQs...

How can I work with you? 

You can sign up for the REBOOT programme or specific support (e.g. CV reboot, interview prep, negotiation support, etc.). We can also work together on a per-hour basis.

Who will I work with? 

Me – Julia Westland! We are in this together, no substitutes or hand offs to others. You get all my experience from working as a tech and analytics practitioner plus years of working with CEOs and boards to find their ideal leaders (at exec and non-exec levels). I know what they are looking for: in person and on paper, the questions to expect and how to play the negotiation. 

What’s the value to me? 

Only you will know what it would mean to land your dream job. For some it’s about fulfilment or purpose, or working with the right people around the leadership team, others its money and more. I have helped leaders get opportunities and offers they never thought possible. You can do this. Yes, you will need to invest time, effort and money, but not if you consider what it means to you to have your dream job. You are worth investing in and I would love to help you. 

Where do you work? Do you speak any other languages? 

Today’s talent market is global. I have lived in 3 continents and am very comfortable working across cultures. I speak English and French fluently. If you are in the UK we can meet in person. I tend to work by Zoom and can be flexible around your time zone. I have spent my career working around the world. Some countries I’ve been to include: USA, Canada, Mexico, Argentina, UK, Ireland, France, Germany, Switzerland, Italy, Spain, Poland, Portugal, Greece, Turkey, Norway, Denmark, Finland, UAE (Dubai, Sharjah), Morocco, Kenya, Egypt, India, Hong Kong, Singapore, Mongolia and Australia. 

What role titles do you work with? 

If you’re in leadership role in Data Analytics / AI, Tech, Product, Digital or Security I can help you. I work with Chief Information Officers (CIO), Chief Information Security Officers (CISO), Chief Technology Officers (CTO), Chief Data Analytics Officers (CDAO), Chief Digital Officers (CDOs), Chief Digital and Information Officers (CDIO), Chief Product Officers (CPO), Chief Product and Technology Officers (CPTO) as well as leaders in these career paths at SVP, VP, Head of, Managing Director, Partner, Senior Manager and more! Every organisation has their own titles so don’t get caught up by titles, let’s jump on the phone and see if I am best placed to help you. 

What sectors do you work with? 

I work across all industries and sectors with businesses in growth stage to large established companies, private equity and consulting firms. I have worked with leaders in the Fortune 500, FTSE 350, CAC40, DAX40 (previously DAX 30), to leaders in privately held companies as well as leaders in DeepTech including Web3, Blockchain, Bitcoin and growth stage xTech businesses including FinTech, InsurTech, FashionTech, RetailTech, PropTech and ClimateTech, etc.