Fran Haines

I’m a Bristol-based Front End Developer at UNRVLD – building transformative digital experiences for some of the world’s most ambitious brands. I strive to use my skills to make a positive impact on the world.

Whilst I started my career as a UI designer, I soon realised that solving problems through code was what I was truly passionate about. I have since worked with a number of languages, frameworks and within a range of sectors. I love my job and the versatility that comes with it. I have worked with eCommerce giants such as Electrolux to enhance their digital solutions and Genomics England, where we built the world’s first online genetic testing service. Within my workplaces I strive to raise the importance of diversity and inclusion – particularly around increasing the profile of women in the industry and opening up potential barriers for those from lower socioeconomic backgrounds who may not have had the same opportunities. Having been a key player in engineering and tech women committees, I’ve consistently participated in workshops and discussions about how our recruitment process and culture can be inclusive and accessible to those from minority groups within tech.

Having been mentored by a number of trailblazing women throughout my career, I am passionate about using my skills to give back to the tech community through volunteering. I am a regular coach at Codebar, an A Level Computer Science coach and I mentor a couple of junior developers to help get them started in tech. I am also passionate about social change – I’m a Volunteer Befriender for those with learning disabilities through Gig Buddies Bristol and I’m currently training for a triathlon to raise money for Shelter to help solve the UK housing crisis. As well as this, I write articles on Medium about the technical and non-technical lessons that I have learnt during my time as a developer with the hope that I’ll help and empower others through my own experiences.

I truly believe the greatest privilege that comes with technology is how transformative it is to those who both use and create it. Technology is a crucial component to solving the world’s inequalities, which is why I am incredibly proud to be part of it.