Bioku’s story

I joined NHS Blood and Transplant because I believe in the transformative power of technology to improve the quality of care and enhance the overall wellbeing of individuals. The intersection of software development and the care sector presents a unique opportunity to work on projects that directly impact people's lives.

Since joining, I’ve benefitted from NHSBT’s total commitment to their people’s growth. The resources they offer have kept me informed about the latest industry trends, tools, and technologies, and helped me to achieve multiple industry relevant certifications. Apart from work-related support, I’m encouraged to speak up about personal challenges. That’s so important to me, because I don't have my family in the UK, so NHSBT are helping to make sure I’m doing well in my personal life.

My typical day working in the software development team of NHSBT involves a variety of responsibilities and processes aimed at designing, implementing, and maintaining software systems. I start my day catching up with my team members to discuss progress, challenges, and potential solutions. Communication is a big part of my day, so I spend time responding to emails, messages, and other forms of communication promptly.

I write, read, and depend on a lot of technical and operational documentation. And I hardly go a day without using a combination of multiple cutting-edge technologies which include but are not limited to C#, .NET, PowerShell, Azure, Virtualization, Jira, Azure DevOps, GIT, SQL and SSMS. These help to develop, deploy and maintain our systems and resources.

Keeping the organisation going is a big part of my role and I spend time monitoring systems, processing data and reviewing project requirements and specifications. I communicate with stakeholders, such as product owners, to clarify any ambiguities in requirements. So I take part in planning meetings to discuss project timelines, milestones, and potential challenges, thus reaching a consensus on the task at hand.

My role plays a crucial role in helping NHSBT achieve its organisational objectives, because I help find technological solutions that enhance efficiency and accuracy for patients in the United Kingdom and around the world. I like to see myself as a life saver, rather than a technical person. I help to make the donation experience seamless for blood and organ donors, and help process, reprocess and record data for the purpose of health accuracy. So while I’m not on the field saving lives, I still help people live longer, better, and healthier lives – just behind the computer.