Analyst, Data Analytics & AI
"Consulting is the perfect industry in which to gain experience out of college. The opportunity to work on a variety of projects means that a consultant's role is constantly changing."
I first started with BearingPoint as part of the September 2023 graduate intake. The Data Analytics & AI service line engages in a wide range of projects requiring different skill sets, such as data visualisation, data engineering, and data science. Since I joined, I have been working on a Microsoft Dynamics ERP system upgrade project for a large Irish retail company, where my role has been specifically on data visualisation work.
My role is with the "BI & Reporting" workstream of the project. We are a small team of 3, who are responsible for building out the data visualisation functionality of the upgraded ERP system. The client uses a number of reporting tools, where the primary scope of our work is to move their reporting onto Microsoft Power BI where possible. This includes the implementation of a data architecture to facilitate the movement and storage of data from the main ERP system to Power BI reports.
As is often the case with DA&AI projects, my work is multi-faceted, with multiple tasks requiring different skill sets running concurrently. One part of this is our business analysis work, where we work with client stakeholders to gather and track requirements and ensure their successful delivery. On the more 'techy' side, I am involved in installing, developing, and maintaining the data architecture. Finally, we are responsible for completing any report development work in Power BI.
I enjoy my role due to the number of different tasks involved, where no two days are the same.
One aspect of my work that I enjoy is that each day is a change in scenery. At BearingPoint, there is a hybrid-working arrangement, where you can work from home on agreed days. Consulting work also includes trips to work in person with the client. I typically go to the BearingPoint office on Tuesdays and Thursdays and am on the client's site on Wednesdays.
Typically, the day starts with a morning stand-up. These sessions allow the team to align on what they have been working on, what they will work on, and any challenges they face. Next, I'll prepare for any other upcoming meetings I have throughout the day, particularly any client-facing meetings. My other time is used as focus time to complete any tasks or deliverables.
Outside of work life, I love to exercise by going to the gym, going for a run, or walking my dogs. I'm a keen sports fan, particularly rugby and Formula 1. At the weekend, I'll often go for food or drinks with my friends in town.
I also enjoy catching up with colleagues after work on a Thursday or Friday over a pint. This is always a fun way to switch off and get to know people outside of the office!
Consulting is the perfect industry in which to gain experience out of college. The opportunity to work on a variety of projects means that a consultant's role is constantly changing. While I have worked with the same client since I started, it has still been a diverse learning experience due to the range of responsibilities which I have on my project. Consultants are rarely completely specialised, for example as a data engineer, analyst, or scientist, and are instead expected to learn and develop whichever of a broad range of skills is required on a project.
BearingPoint stood out to me because of the clear focus on their people. The development of graduates is a priority for the firm, with a focus on learning and development through online courses and firmwide training. Additionally, each employee gets a "development manager" who guides and supports their personal and professional progress.
This people-first culture is reflected in my day-to-day interactions at the company. Senior staff and management are always approachable and supportive. The office atmosphere is always lively, and I always enjoy my days there. The company invests heavily in social initiatives, so there is always an event or good cause to get involved with, such as the sports and social club, the Analyst Network, and the wide range of CSR activities we engage in.