From PA to Change Leader: My Journey Into Tech & Transformation

My journey into tech didn’t start with a degree or a plan — it began as a PA. In this post, I share how I transitioned into the world of Business Change, what I’ve learned leading major digital programmes, and why I created Tech Biz Toolkit to help others do the same.

BEHIND THE TOOLKIT

Rochelle

9/21/20252 min read

When people think of tech leaders or digital change experts, they often imagine someone who’s always had a plan. That wasn’t me. I didn’t come into the industry with a tech degree or a traditional path. In fact, my journey started from when I as a Personal Assistant (PA) — and every role I’ve held since has taught me how to adapt, learn, and lead transformation.

I joined my current organisation over a decade ago as a PA to the CIO. I chose that role deliberately — I knew that if I could get close to senior leadership and technology programmes, I could learn the ropes and find my place in the tech space. What I didn’t expect was how much I’d fall in love with helping others navigate change.

I took every opportunity to upskill — evenings learning Microsoft Office Suite inside out, teaching myself Logic Pro X and Adobe tools, and eventually becoming a certified Microsoft Trainer (MCT) and Business Change Practitioner (APM, Prosci) to name a few.

My breakthrough came when I offered informal Microsoft Office training to fellow PAs and admin professionals. That small act of knowledge-sharing set off a chain of opportunities. I was invited to support tech rollouts, stakeholder engagement sessions, and ultimately landed a secondment that launched my Business Change career.

Fast forward to today, I lead a team of Change Managers and Specialists, driving digital transformation across large-scale programmes. I’ve supported initiatives that introduced new platforms, reshaped operating models, and even helped employees embrace AI tools like Copilot. But more than anything, I’m passionate about people — making tech feel less scary and more empowering.

I created Tech Biz Toolkit to share what I’ve learned with others — whether you’re new to change, working in operations, or simply curious about tech. There’s a space for you here, and I hope my story encourages you to create your own path, too.

👉 Want to start your own journey in Business Change? Check out our Tools page for tools, and our podcast for insights, and real talk on leading tech transformation.