An Interview with Wahid Issa: Learning and Growing Ensures Results are Achieved
Hello VOX Readers! A couple of weeks ago I published an interview with Geoff Greenlaw, Senior Director for Channel Emerging, EMEA. Did you read it? In this latest #LifeAtVeritas interview, I catch up with Wahid Issa, Global Channel Programme Manager about how he found himself working in the tech industry. He shares some valuable career advice – be open-minded as the opportunities available are boundless. And how his career has enabled him to provide a solid start in life for his children. It’s an honest, heart-warming and frank interview, so I hope you enjoy it and let me know your thoughts in the comments below.
Zoe: Wahid, what made you choose a career in IT?
Wahid: I think IT chose me… I interned at a Dutch spin-off of HP and that’s how my professional journey began. However, as a youngster, I thought I’d end up an Architect.
Zoe: Do you have any career advice for those trying to secure their first IT role?
Wahid: Whilst I’ve worked in the tech space most of my career, it’s never been in a technical capacity, it has mostly been focused on the channel, marketing, projects and programmes. There is just so much scope out there for IT newbies, so my advice would be; keep an open mind because the avenues are limitless.
Zoe: What has been your career highlight to date? And what are you most proud of?
Wahid: Making the switch from agency-side to roles within IT vendors like Veritas. I am most proud of being able to provide my kids with a solid start in life, because of my career.
Zoe: What do you enjoy most about your role at Veritas?
Wahid: For me it’s all about collaborating and delivering value, working with people from all walks of life, cultures and languages. I thrive on turning problems into solutions through processes and systems.
Zoe: Wahid, to some extent, we are influenced by others. Who are your role models and influencers?
Wahid: I have to say my Mum (ok, ok, ok I admit I’m a mummy’s boy). She always found a way to teach me how to be the best person I can, instilling morals, respect, integrity, trust, hard work and of course laughter.
Zoe: It is important to take time to have fun and enjoy life. What do you like to do outside of work?
Wahid: Well, a career in IT got in the way of my road to Wimbledon (ha-ha). I thoroughly enjoy playing Tennis. I have been known to do a bungee jump or two, the last one was over the Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe! I’m also (slowly) trying to learn Italian.
Zoe: Different things motivate different people. What motivates you?
Wahid: Everyone wants to do a good job, its innate in us humans. I want to keep learning and growing and not just do a good job but a FANTASTIC one!
Zoe: What’s your favourite Veritas solution? Or product?
Wahid: It’s not just one favourite… I really like what the Solstice Launch revealed. Don’t you?
Zoe: Yes, the Solstice launch was fantastic and shows how Veritas is innovating and delivering the best Enterprise Services Platform to our customers. So, can you describe Veritas in one word?
Wahid: Ever-changing (technically that’s 2 words).
Zoe: What’s a life or career tip you’d like to share with our VOX blog readers?
Wahid: Cherish (and backup) those special moments with family and friends and keep making lots more.
Zoe: Backing up those treasured moments is a great tip and essential, thanks for sharing. And finally, what technology can’t you live without?
Wahid: Fitbit - fortunately or unfortunately as it shows me how much exercise I’m NOT doing. 😊
So, that’s a wrap for my interview with Wahid Issa, it was great catching up and thank you for sharing your experiences and thoughts on Veritas. My key takeaway from this interview is don’t forget to remember to backup your personal treasured moments; your photos and videos, as backup protection, is not just for your work files. If you enjoyed this Life at Veritas blog post with Wahid, then do stay tuned as there will be more interview-style posts from other people at Veritas sharing their experiences and knowledge. And if this has inspired you to join our team, then check out our job vacancies on LinkedIn and apply here.