Janine La Rosa – Diversity Manager at Sky
Janine is responsible for the development and implementation of Sky’s Diversity and Inclusion Strategy. This high profile role involves ensuring that recruitment, development and promotion opportunities are open to all and that talent and a good work ethic are the key criteria for a successful career at Sky. Janine chairs the BSkyB Diversity Comms Board which is responsible for aligning diversity and inclusion activities on and off screen to ensure that Sky represents the UK community.
Janine has been at Sky for over 4 years and has worked across a number of business areas in that time. Before joining Sky Janine was a management consultant working in the UK and overseas.
Janine is a member of the Inspirational You Board.
What did you study at University?
Modern History, Economic History and Politics.
What did you want to do when growing up?
Barrister, pop star, teacher, doctor, house wife – I wanted to do all of these things for one day each week.
How did you get a job at Sky?
I spotted an opportunity on the WorkforSky website and applied directly
What is an average day like?
The scope of my job is vast so every day is completely different. At the moment I’m developing a strategy to encourage up and coming female talent in Sky, setting our diversity goals for next year and reviewing the feedback from our work with the Mama Youth Project to encourage young people from underprivileged backgrounds into the media. I spend a lot of my time in meetings, developing diversity strategies and influencing key stakeholders – great thing is I’m never bored.
What do enjoy most about your job?
All of it, honestly! I’ve had a really varied career and this role plays to my strengths while allowing me to add a creative and passionate flair. If I had to pick one thing I most enjoy it would be the opportunity to work with and have an impact on all of the different areas of Sky.
What tips do you have for someone wanting to break into media?
Do your research. I am constantly asked to help people get ‘into’ Sky, which I’m happy to do but you need to have some idea of what you want to do as there as so many opportunities in so many different business areas.
Make the most of every opportunity. If someone gives you the chance to gain experience in something new or to show you can add value to something make sure you take the chance as you never know where it might lead.
Take ownership of your career. If you don’t like your current role develop a plan to get you to where you want to be. Accept that this may involve developing yourself outside of your current role and in your own time. It’s no one else’s responsibility to develop you so if you want something it’s up to you to make it happen.
