Promoting Women in Consultancy
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"...I’d heard about the Associate Service Delivery Manager team at Columbus, and how great they are and wanted to be a part of it. I knew I’d be in good hands while I learned the ropes..."
Robyn, Service Delivery Manager
How did you get into Consultancy?
Weirdly! I was working for the Local Authority on a one-year contract and was after a more secure role with better prospects and more day-to-day challenges. I asked my sister who works at Columbus and she mentioned the Associate Service Delivery Manager role. I had no previous experience but had transferrable soft skills that I was able to apply, and I got the job - and was promoted after 6 months!
What do you love about the industry and what you do?
Every day is different and it keeps me on my toes!
What would your Advice be to anyone starting out?
Ask for help if you need it and take the initiative to try new things. Eventually you’ll get to the point where you don’t need as much help and you’ll be coming up with the solutions on your own.
How do Columbus Accommodate work/life balance?
It’s good! Sometimes you may need to work late if there’s a release or a critical case pops up, but my manager lets me take the time back another day. There are semi-regular social events, and we always try and meet up as a team at least once every two months.
What other industries did you work in before you came into Consultancy?
Public sector! Specifically: education, housing and employment. My background is psychology an MA in special education.
What made you decide to switch to the Consultancy industry?
As much as I enjoyed working in the public sector, there weren’t many opportunities for progression. I’d also gotten comfortable in the role and wanted a new challenge. Switching careers to consultancy gave me access to opportunities that I wouldn’t have had otherwise. Also, I enjoy people-facing roles and love problem solving. This role is great for me!
What appealed to you about joining Columbus?
Amongst other things, future job prospects, competitive salary and a permanent contract. I’d heard about the Service Delivery Manager team and how great they are and wanted to be a part of it. I knew I’d be in good hands while I learned the ropes! Meeting and working with folks from all different backgrounds. Every day is different, every day is a challenge and every day is a learning opportunity.
What advice would you give to anyone trying to get into the consulting industry?
Even if you don’t have any experience, go for it. Think of the soft skills you have that you can bring to the role. Do your research and show a willingness to learn – that’ll get you far!
It keeps you on your toes! Every day comes with it’s own challenges, problems to solve and clients to support.