Kate Prohasky, State Lead – Victoria, leads the ARQ business for the state. She spoke to us about her new role leading the Victorian ARQ business and the varied career path which led to her working in the technology industry. Kate also shared the top technology trends she predicts over the next five years.
What are you most excited about in your new role?
I’m excited to work with clients and our team to solve complex business and community problems with technology. The pace of change in our lives throughout the last two years has opened my eyes up to the capacity of Victorians and businesses to be adaptive and resilient. I am excited to have the opportunity to play a small part in creating a place that is more than a workplace, but a place where people are inspired, motivated and have a sense of belonging. I truly believe that the team we have in Victoria at the moment at ARQ is unique with the level of innovation and curiosity, the energy and passion they have for their clients, and the willingness they are to support each other is something I feel so humbled to be a part of.
What’s a fun fact about you?
I learnt my sales skills by working as a pharmaceutical sales rep knocking on GP doctor’s doors in Western Sydney. It was a deep dive into handling objections and rejections at every doctor’s surgery.
Can you share with us a little bit more about you and your background pre-ARQ?
ARQ has really proven that it values diversity in its approach to its people as my background is far from a typical journey into tech. My most recent experience prior to ARQ was working as a Lean Six Sigma Consultant delivering operational improvement work and training to large corporates. My formal sales training was in the pharmaceutical industry which thickened my skin. I started my career as a physiotherapist so I try to make the link between working with people, to selling pharmaceuticals to improving operations of businesses as pretty good well-rounded experience to help me step into this role.
How did you end up in the Technology Industry?
I ended up in the technology industry almost by accident. I was attracted to the business problems that were solved through the use of technology, rather than the technology itself. I have learnt so much in my time at ARQ and continue to be amazed at the diverse talent we have at ARQ. The pace of change in the technology industry is what constantly keeps me learning which is something that is important for me.
What are the top trends you predict over the next 5 years?
We will continue to see the rise of automation through the use of technology replace labour in many industries. People will always play a part in delivering services and products as relationships will never be replaced by bots. There will be a new wave of connectiveness through a combination of digital + personal connection as people realise the 100% virtual world of COVID is not a world people want to remain in. We will see continued increase in women in technology and the needle towards 50:50 will move slowly.
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