Welcome to the first episode of Inside the Salesforce Ecosystem, where we talk to leading experts and Trailblazers shaping the future of Salesforce. In this series, we uncover personal journeys, insights, and advice straight from the professionals who know it best.
In this episode, we talk to Ewen Clark, VP Solution Architect at mywage and an experienced speaker in the Salesforce World Tour. We uncover his journey, insights, and advice as a professional shaping the future of Salesforce.
Let’s get started!
Q: Can you tell us a little bit about yourself and your role as a Solution Architect?
Ewen Clark: I always say the role of a solution architect is about making the possible practical. My job is to take complex business requirements and translate them into sustainable solutions for our clients. I bridge the gap between development and business, ensuring that what’s proposed aligns with both sides. It’s all about making impactful and realistic plans.
Q: How did your journey in the Salesforce ecosystem begin, and how has it evolved over the years?
Ewen: My entry into Salesforce was somewhat unconventional—I started as a user in a recruitment company where we utilized Salesforce. Then, I began recruiting Salesforce professionals, so my exposure came from multiple angles. I didn’t start as a developer but transitioned into consulting within that recruitment firm. Over seven years, I moved from asking, “Why doesn’t this field do what I need it to do?” to being the person who ensures it does.
Over time, we’ve had massive changes, from the move to Lightning Experience to the huge push with AI, like Agentforce recently. Overall, I would say that Salesforce itself has grown as a solution and the people within that ecosystem have also grown. The roles within Salesforce have diversified, and the community has seen a tremendous increase in size and complexity.
Q: What does a typical day look like for you? Any habits that help you stay productive?
Ewen: I’m not a person of strict routines; a lot of my career has been based around flexibility. My work involves responding to client needs, which can vary widely.
One of the things that I found very important is having focus time. This is essential to avoid a calendar filled with back-to-back meetings. Something that I’ve developed in myself is the ability to have a clear agenda, and I take time afterward to organize my notes for action points.
Q: What has been the highlight of your Salesforce career so far?
Ewen: One of the biggest highlight is actually my entry to the ecosystem and how quickly you can progress in it.
About six months before I started as a consultant, I was working in bars. Within just a few years, I gained enough experience to become a speaker at Salesforce World Tour events and even traveled internationally for work. The career growth and life-changing opportunities Salesforce has provided me are truly incredible. I don’t know of any other technology platform that allows that level of progression. It changed my life completely.
Q: What’s your favorite part of your job?
Ewen: It has to be the “Eureka” moments. I love when clients see the tangible benefits of what we implement. For example, automating a process that used to take an entire team days to complete down to a single button click—that’s when I know the work has real impact. Seeing their realization that technology can make their lives better, that, for me, is the best part of my job right now.
Q: What advice would you give to aspiring Solution Architects?
Ewen: The ability to be confident enough in yourself to ask for help is the number one determination of success. Don’t be afraid to ask for help. Nobody is expected to know everything from day one, and reaching out for guidance builds trust.
Also, remember that interpersonal skills are just as crucial as technical knowledge. Being punctual, doing your job well, and being a team player will take you far. Finally, building a strong network is invaluable. Many roles are filled through connections, not just resumes.
Q: How do you maintain a work-life balance with such a demanding role?
Ewen: I believe in setting clear boundaries. Yes, there are times when urgent work requires flexibility, but it’s important to draw a line once the essential tasks are done. If a client asks for a non-urgent change late at night, it can wait until the next working day. Balance is key to long-term productivity and well-being.
Stay tuned for more stories and insights from Salesforce professionals in upcoming episodes of Inside the Salesforce Ecosystem.
