Digital Business Analyst
AtkinsRéalis
Having never intended on becoming a consultant and almost finding it by accident, I can say with confidence I am glad I did!
In 2022 I graduated from the University of Central Lancashire in BA (Hons) Business Management, with a view to move into a graduate role. In August 2022, I started my journey with AtkinsRéalis in the Aerospace, Defence, Security and Technology division. Since this moment, I have not looked back. The experiences and opportunities afforded to me have helped shape the career I now lead today as a Digital Business Analyst, with many challenging and rewarding experiences that for me sets consulting apart.
For my first year I held a role in operational and project management support. The primary objective of this role was to be the key conduit between AtkinsRéalis and a multinational consultancy within the complex nuclear defence market. This involved working with a team of senior programme managers and engineering delivery leads to enhance efficiency through establishing meeting cadence and facilitating workshops as well as further project management and risk management responsibilities through leading project finance reporting and risk reviews.
Since July 2023 I have had the privilege of working on the Heathrow Security Programme. The sheer wealth of opportunities and responsibility afforded to me has been surprising but extremely rewarding. It has allowed me to thrive and develop as a consultant, aligning with my passion to work on a programme making a real difference to society. I have worked across a range of different projects leading trials and operational assessments that look to provide a data led approach to process improvement. The role provided the chance to leverage platforms such as PowerBI and Excel, with me leading the data collection and analysis capability. Through this, utilising AI has been incredibly useful, aiding me in developing code for data collection tooling and quickening the manual data analysis exercises.
Being given the opportunity to work on projects making a real difference is what I have enjoyed the most. Through my work on the Security Programme, I have seen first hand the difference the work we do has made to improving the passenger journey. We are trusted to go to the airport, immerse ourselves in the operation and client teams and actively contribute to delivering next generation security for passengers and colleagues. The chance to conduct assessments on the security lanes has been a highlight, with lots of variety, travel, and experiences you would struggle to get in another line of work. It has involved a lot of stakeholder engagement in the face of the client, pushing me out of my comfort zone and stretching my abilities.
In addition to my client role, I have also had the opportunity to lead an Early Careers workstream for the Critical National Infrastructure market. This includes all clients within sectors such as Aviation, Rail, Energy and Highways focused on creating a better future for our planet and its people. Working on projects harnessing digital, data, technology and transformation for clients delivering major programmes of work and for the betterment of society is what drives my passion for consulting. Pairing my client role and my passion for such projects has been a standout experience! Consulting allows you to explore what is important to you. If a line of work or particular topic interests you, I would definitely recommend pursing it and seeing where it takes you.
If you are considering a career in consulting, go for it! It is a challenging yet incredibly rewarding field that offers endless opportunities for growth and development. Be prepared to step out of your comfort zone, embrace continuous learning, and adapt to ever-changing environments. Consulting will push you to think critically, solve complex problems, and crucially allow you the opportunity to play a key role in making a tangible difference. If you have a passion for helping organisations thrive and a desire to make a positive impact in areas you are passionate about, consulting could be the perfect career for you!