There’s something refreshing about a career story that doesn’t follow a straight line.
No rigid plan, no perfectly mapped-out progression.
When Catrina Baker-Bassett reflects on her journey to becoming Managing Director at DabApps, she describes it as a “squiggly path.” From early days in hospitality to stepping into a tech environment without a technical background, her career has been shaped less by convention and more by experience – working with people, adapting quickly, and embracing the unknown.
Over the past decade, that mindset has not only defined her growth, but also the way she leads. Grounded in empathy, trust, and a genuine belief in empowering others, Cat’s leadership style is a reflection of the environments that shaped her.
In this conversation, we explore:
- How that journey unfolded
- What compassionate leadership really looks like in practice
- And why creating space for people to learn, speak up, and be themselves is at the core of building both strong teams and successful businesses.
Interviewed by Imogen Meston
