MYOB, Thoughtworks partner to nurture tech talent

ANZ business management platform MYOB and global technology consultancy Thoughtworks have partnered to source talent to design and develop software product solutions. The new program will see both organisations focusing on providing emerging talent with valuable mentoring opportunities and real-world operational experiences as they begin their tech careers.

While COVID-19 has accelerated digital transformation across the economy, Australia’s technology skills shortage threatens the potential for businesses to evolve. The MYOB and Thoughtworks collaboration addresses the capability gap that exists between graduate training and the practical skills companies are looking for to meet the growing demand within technology teams.

Initially, the program will bring together 12 MYOB graduates and/or career switchers and 12 junior Thoughtworks consultants. This cohort will be led by a team of senior consultants from both organisations as they take on product delivery work that is designed to deliver customer value. The program will facilitate ongoing training that draws on Thoughtworks’ expertise and experience in areas such as modern software development.

Kristan Vingrys, Managing Director of Thoughtworks Australia and New Zealand, said this initiative demonstrates how the company collaborates with customers to deliver outcomes that make a difference. “The severity of the [skills] shortage will impact every corner of Australian business, so it’s every organisation’s responsibility to contribute towards a solution. It’s clear we need to think differently about how we recruit and invest in people — it’s about building energy and passion as much as we need to build capabilities, and that demands a new approach to how we engage people,” said Vingrys.

MYOB Chief Product and Technology Officer Darren Smith said the initiative is a positive way for the local technology community to contribute solutions to the talent shortage. Smith noted that Australia is competing with talent on a global scale, adding that it’s critical that all organisations consider how they can help grow Australia’s talent pool. “This program is one of several ways we’re seeking to nurture a new generation of talent. It’s rewarding to see our more experienced team members impart years of wisdom and insights to help build an exciting new community of future technologists who will be a critical part in taking businesses like ours into the future,” said Smith.

MYOB Protégé Developer Tiffany Hoang will be one of the first cohort of the MYOB and Thoughtworks collaboration, and said the opportunity to enhance the skills gained through MYOB’s Future Makers Academy is a huge opportunity. “The ability to combine best practices in the way we deliver software, while being conscious of areas for growth, has been so far a wonderful experience. This new opportunity to collaborate with Thoughtworks Graduates, along with my fellow MYOB Protégé Developers, adds even more to the value of the program,” said Hoang.

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