What does a typical working day on client site look like for you?
Joining BCS during a global pandemic and working on a client project remotely has been unusual! I haven’t had the opportunity to work on a ‘physical’ client site and I’ve had to adapt to interacting with clients in the virtual world.
It’s hard to define a typical working day, as no two days are the same. I like to start my days early (I am a morning person!) and will check my emails ahead of tucking into breakfast and making myself a strong coffee. Consultancy life is as expected, varied, and my current role has been no exception. Working in a central PMO function, on a large regulatory programme for a global bank involves interacting with a significant number of stakeholders from numerous workstreams. The demands from stakeholders, ways of working and communication styles differ greatly, and I am required to adapt my approach to carry out my role effectively.
Being confined to working from home, I try to get out over lunch for some fresh air and to stretch the legs! With lots of client meetings and inevitable screen time I think it has been critical to my health and well-being to ensure I maintain an element of routine in the working day. Although remote working has its benefits, I look forward to returning to the office later in the year!
How has your career developed at BCS?
I joined BCS as an Associate Consultant in September 2020 having previously worked at a global bank as a Business Analyst where I first encountered the firm and I’ve now been promoted to Consultant.
From the outset, I was thrown in the deep end and given significant client responsibility and exposure, however, the support network and learning & development opportunities have been fantastic. In under a year, I felt as if I have achieved an awful lot! Not only did my confidence levels grow, but I also completed the Chartered Banker diploma and received my first promotion to a consultant grade (all whilst working remotely). Career paths are mapped out clearly and the service line training that GenCo members undergo gives everyone a great opportunity to build a network and develop a foundational understanding of the service line offering. Despite the obvious limitations of home working and the challenges it creates in preventing personable relationships from developing, BCS have done an incredible job in ensuring new joiners feel welcome! I really do feel part of the team and have received the necessary mentoring, guidance and resources required to kick start a successful career in financial services consultancy.
What would you say to someone thinking of joining us?
In two words; DO IT! I had slight reservations as to whether the people would be as warm and welcoming as they appeared during the application process. Having now worked here for over a year, I can confidently say that they are. BCS has a wonderful culture with a community feel and I believe the firm is genuinely interested in the personal and professional development of each and every employee. Hard work and graft are fundamental traits to be successful, but BCS do a great job at ensuring this is rewarded appropriately whilst not forgetting the importance of your personal well-being too!
Senior management do a brilliant job of making junior employees feel valued and this has ultimately created an environment where individuals can openly share their ideas. It is extremely rewarding (and fun!) to work with a group of intelligent, driven, and diverse individuals.
