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Video Introduction
Major: Operations & Information Management
Job Title: Senior Manager, Data Analytics & Technology
Company: Accenture Federal Services
Company Description: Accenture Federal Services (AFS) is a division of Accenture, focused on delivering advanced consulting, digital, and technology solutions to U.S. federal government agencies. The firm helps clients improve their operations, enhance cybersecurity, modernize IT infrastructure, and implement innovative strategies to address complex challenges. AFS supports a wide range of federal missions, including defense, intelligence, public safety, and health services.
Did you have any initial career goals when you entered Isenberg? Were there any key moments or influences (a guest speaker, course, or extracurricular) during your time at Isenberg that changed or confirmed your career goals?
I entered Isenberg with the aspiration of becoming a Big 4 accountant. After completing various core courses and undertaking two internships at a Big 4 firm, I developed a unique skill set that inspired me to consider a slight career shift. Exposure to diverse career paths through the Chase Career Center sparked a strong interest in the problem-solving aspects of consulting, leading me to pursue this new direction with enthusiasm.
Can you share a favorite work assignment that could help a student understand more about what you do?
Recently, one of our engagement teams supporting a global audit client was tasked with reporting on the clients’ inventory across 100+ locations worldwide. In order to centralize the procedures across all locations, we created a PowerBI dashboard that highlighted inventory movements across the world. This project had a couple elements that I really enjoyed: being tasked with an open ended problem, designing a creative solution, and global collaboration. The resulting dashboard helped to streamline inventory audit procedures for each location, ultimately saving thousands of hours of effort per year.
Now that you’re in this position, what aspects have surprised you that you didn’t anticipate before starting?
As a new joiner at AFS, the aspect that surprised me most was the amount of learning people do on the job. Although I felt equipped to contribute to the success of a team, there is a seemingly limitless amount of knowledge regarding consulting and technology. There hasn’t been a day since I joined the firm where I’ve gone without learning something. Although it can be difficult to take in so much information each day, it has been proven to be rewarding in countless ways.
What inspires you about the work you are doing in your industry?
Working within federal consulting almost guarantees you to make an impact in some manner. By working to provide federal agencies with technology-based solutions, it is inspiring to see the direct impact you make by improving the functionality of the agencies that service our communities.
What are some daily challenges you experience in your role?
Although learning can be rewarding, it can be challenging to absorb large quantities of information over short periods of time. Whether it be through meetings, pursuing certifications, or intensive training sessions, the demand for rapid learning can be overwhelming. Be sure to take regular breaks, prioritize key concepts, and utilize effective study techniques to manage the workload. Additionally, seeking support from colleagues, mentors, or study groups can provide valuable insights and help maintain a balanced approach to learning.
Is there anything you wish you had done differently while a student at Isenberg?
One thing I wish I had done differently while at Isenberg would be to make more of an effort to develop connections with professors. Many professors at Isenberg have had interesting and successful career paths that have led them to where they are today. With that, they have an abundance of knowledge that they are willing to share to help students of various majors and career aspirations.
Networking is extremely important but can be intimidating to undergraduates. What tips do you have for getting started engaging with alum or upperclassmen?
Breaking the ice when it comes to beginning your networking journey can be a difficult process. My advice to those getting started is to just begin sending messages through LinkedIn to professionals with careers you’re interested in learning more about, while also challenging yourself to attend any type of networking event at Isenberg. With each message on LinkedIn and every handshake at an event, your approach to the networking process will become more refined and effective. Beginning this journey is difficult, but it has the potential to lead to the most enjoyable and rewarding experiences of your professional career.
