Miriam Evans
EMEA Workplace Lead
Cisco - we are a Tech company and our mission is to 'power an inclusive future for all'.
I manage 2 offices in London and 1 in Sweden, making sure that everything runs well and the people are taken care of. I also lead our Connected Black Professionals group which is for employees who identify as part of the Black community to get together within Cisco UK.
My job is really varied and I deal with a lot of different types of people every day, from food suppliers to building managers and Senior Directors. I have projects and people to manage. I enjoy creating work spaces virtually and in-person where people can be themselves.
When in the office, I am usually walking/running around checking that everything is running smoothly or having meetings to maintain relationships. Sometimes I am planning fun events or catching up with my team.
I did well at school and studied Human Resource Management and Business at university. After uni, I started as a Receptionist at a recruitment company and moved up to Office Manager. I have been in Office Management roles for the last 9 years and taken on more responsibility along the way.
I love what I'm doing now and the balance of practical, project-based work along with inclusion and connecting people. I'd like to continue working on ideas that encourage better diversity and inclusion in my industry.
I'm very close with my family and like to see them often, supporting whatever they are doing or babysitting my nephew. I also enjoy yoga and keeping fit, reading and of course watching TV (especially this year!) I'm a big fan of sustainable living and second hand clothes too.
"Be you, otherwise you'll make a lousy someone else." I can't remember who said it but heard it recently and it stuck!