Tiffany Hartley is a standout example of how early-career talent can thrive when given the right opportunities, support and trust. After joining HPE as an intern and completing the HPE Sales Academy – where she finished as the highest performer – Tiffany returned to the business as a graduate and quickly stepped into a high-impact role. Now a Public Sector Account Executive, she is already managing several large public sector accounts, demonstrating both commercial confidence and leadership early in her career.
In this interview, Tiffany shares her journey so far, the lessons she’s learned along the way, and why creating clear pathways for emerging talent is so important – both for individuals and for the wider tech sector.
Can you tell us about your journey with HPE so far, from joining as an intern to returning as a graduate?
I started as an intern at HPE in July 2023 in the communications and programmes division, supporting our Office of the MD. This was part of my industrial placement year at the University of Leeds, where I studied Business Management. HPE instantly struck me as a company full of opportunity and investment in their culture. From helping to manage our Tottenham Hotspur partnership, to organising our UKIMEA-wide, volunteering “Day of Service”, inclusion is something that stuck with me throughout my internship, as I was handed real responsibilities and trust. You weren’t seen as just “an intern”, you were seen as an individual contributor who could make a difference. When you find a workplace with such a positive culture, it’s hard to look anywhere else. Now, I’ve returned to HPE as a public sector account manager and I’m excited to see what the future holds!
During your intern year, you went through the HPE Sales Readiness Programme and finished as the highest performer – what was that experience like?
The Intern Sales Readiness Programme (ISRP) was intense but incredibly rewarding. Starting off in a marketing role, sales was slightly out of my comfort zone, but something I wanted to try. Throughout the process, I realised the secret wasn’t just about ‘selling’, it was about active listening and curiosity. It was easy to focus on being the loudest in the room, but I found I excelled by focusing on the ‘why’ – truly understanding customer pain points before pitching an immediate solution.
Practice, repetition, and keeping track of my feedback and goals, were all things that helped me to improve in a short space of time. Finishing as the highest performer was a huge achievement for me. For someone who was quiet and introverted at the beginning of the programme, I slowly found my confidence once I began fulfilling my targets, and it led me to the role I’m in today.
Now, as a graduate, you’re already managing several large public sector accounts – how has that transition been?
Moving from an intern role to a graduate account manager role is a large jump, but it’s been very exciting and positive. I’m currently responsible for accounts that impact public services, which, although is daunting, is also very fulfilling. Knowing you could be helping to improve wait times at NHS trusts or equip police forces with faster technology for their digital forensics units, gives my work a real sense of purpose.
It’s easy to experience imposter syndrome at any point in your career, especially when taking on larger responsibilities, however I find it important to remember you were chosen for the role for a reason, and age doesn’t define capability – preparation and work ethic do. The fact HPE trusts it’s graduates enough to allow them to lead critical projects like these from day one speaks volumes.
What kind of support, training or culture at HPE has helped you grow so quickly and build confidence in your role?
HPE is well known for its inclusive, vibrant culture. From starting as an intern on day one, the training and resources available were widely spread. I’ve had some incredible mentors from various business units who haven’t just told me what to do but asked me how I wanted to solve problems. This has allowed me to be responsible for my own decisions and success, whilst gaining a breadth of perspectives and opinions. Having a strong support network is crucial to any role, as this will allow you to learn quickly and make mistakes in a safe environment.
Based on your experience so far, what advice would you give to students or graduates considering a career in tech or sales?
My advice for someone who is considering a career in tech or sales would be don’t feel like you need to be a ‘tech genius’ to start. Most people I see come into the organisation develop that knowledge as time goes on – HPE can teach you products, but they can’t teach you grit and empathy. Resiliency and drive are also great traits to have in sales, as you will inevitably experience more rejections than acceptances. If you have the mindset to see ‘no’ as a starting point to help you get to the next ‘yes’, then you’re halfway there.
The tech world is very dynamic and moves fast. If you are someone who likes to learn and isn’t afraid to ask ‘stupid’ questions, you will thrive in this environment. HPE is incredibly supportive and there are always people happy to help. I also think it’s important to build your professional brand, through LinkedIn for example. Even as an intern/graduate/apprentice, how you show up matters. If you are reliable, enthusiastic, and yourself, you’ll go further than you think.
Why is HPE involved in Manchester Digital’s Talent Day, and why do events like this matter for early-career talent?
HPE is a sponsor for Manchester Digital’s Talent Day because we know the next wave of innovation comes from diverse, fresh perspectives and young talent. HPE aren’t just looking for CV’s, they are looking for people with a real interest in the world of technology. Early-career talent is imperative for the future of organisations like HPE, and Manchester Digital’s Talent Day gives both parties the opportunity to explore the shared values and attitudes that will drive the next decade of technology innovation. My advice for attendees revolves around being inquisitive and getting a feel for HPE’s culture and purpose. Don’t be afraid to network with people, showcase your personality, and ask questions beyond what the job description outlines.
