Mums in Tech ft. Dimple Malik
As part of our ‘Mums in Tech’ series, we caught up with Dimple Malik, Senior Engineering Manager at Pandora.
The purpose of our 'MotherBoard’ content series is to highlight incredible working mums within tech & data, as well as individuals and businesses that are supportive and progressive within their approach to creating more inclusive tech & data teams for women.
Firstly, can you please introduce yourself and tell us a bit about your current role?
Hello, I’m Dimple, currently working as an Engineering Manager at Pandora’s London Digital Hub. I lead a team of Data Engineers focused on building customer-centric marketing products that leverage scalable, data-driven solutions to enhance personalization, customer engagement and campaign performance. I collaborate closely with cross-functional teams to align engineering initiatives with business objectives, while fostering a culture of technical excellence, innovation, and continuous improvement.
If you could sum up what it’s like being a working mum in tech in one sentence, what would it be?
Some days are challenging, some days are exciting. But every day this reminds me how strong and capable I am.
“I try to remind myself that finding balance is a continuous process and not a perfect formula.”
How do you find the balance between your career and motherhood?
It’s about prioritizing what matters in the moment—focusing on work when I'm at work and being fully present with my son when I’m home. Maintaining a balance is still challenging, but the hybrid work environment has given me more opportunities to spend time with him. I’ve learned that you can’t do everything alone, and I’m incredibly fortunate to have the support of my partner, which allows me to prioritize work when needed. That said, there are still days when I feel guilty about leaving him behind when I have to travel for work, but I try to remind myself that finding balance is a continuous process and not a perfect formula.
What has been your greatest challenge as a working mother in tech?
My greatest challenge as a working mother in tech has been managing the constant thoughts running through my mind, especially when there’s a school event I need to attend. It can sometimes make it harder to stay focused at work. I’ve also had to step back from social activities at work because I don’t want to miss bedtime, which is often the only time I get to connect with my son during weekdays. I’m sure many parents can relate to the feeling of constantly splitting attention between both worlds.
“Balancing motherhood with work has taught me how to prioritize tasks more effectively and manage my time efficiently.”
What skills have you developed as a mother that have helped your work life?
That’s an interesting one. I would say many 😊. I’ve definitely become more patient than before. I’ve learned to be more empathetic, understanding that everyone is going through their own challenges, so I now take more time to respond thoughtfully to people’s reactions. Additionally, my time management skills have significantly improved. Balancing motherhood with work has taught me how to prioritize tasks more effectively and manage my time efficiently.
When you were returning to work, what one thing helped you / would have helped you the most?
When I returned to work after my son was 9 months old, I was fortunate to have flexibility with my working hours. During the Covid period, childcare wasn’t available, so I worked in the mornings while my husband took care of our son. I would work until 3 PM and then catch up on things in the evening after my son’s bedtime. This arrangement was a massive help in balancing both work and parenting during a challenging time.
“For employers who want to support working mothers better, I think the top priority should be offering flexible working arrangements, providing adequate parental leave, and fostering a culture of empathy and trust.”
What do you feel should be the top priority for employers who want to support working mothers better?
Flexibility and understanding. Mothers experience different emotions and challenges each day, and not every day is the same for them. Of course, employers need results, and women are committed to their work, but I truly believe the way a mother can multitask and give her best is unmatched. For employers who want to support working mothers better, I think the top priority should be offering flexible working arrangements, providing adequate parental leave, and fostering a culture of empathy and trust.
Any final words of advice for other mothers in the Tech Industry?
Don’t ever feel you’re not good enough, and never think that asking for help makes you any less strong. Believe in yourself. It is tough and will always be but with confidence and support, you’ll rise and shine in your own unique way.
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