Tell us about your career journey since you graduated…
I've worked in the IT Services world for 35 years, the first two in the UK and the remainder in the USA. The core part of my career was Management Consulting, including 22 years at Accenture. Since 2010, my focus has been on developing strategic alliances between global firms in support of new & emerging technologies (CRM, Cloud, Digital Industrial).
What does an average day at work involve for you?
The main thing I like about my current position is working with people, plus the wide variety of tasks and the unexpected challenges that come up every week. No one day is the same. I most enjoy helping shape strategy, solving problems and orchestrating efforts across multiple teams to make big things happen.
What’s been the highlight of your career so far?
I've been around a long time and am fortunate to have a list of highlights from the past 35 years. My promotion to partner at Accenture in 1997 was probably the biggest personal milestone. My move into strategic alliances at Salesforce.com (2010-16) was also very satisfying with some major business outcomes accomplished.
How would you say Brunel helped you to get where you are today?
My Computer Science BSc "thin" sandwich course provided me with a fantastic platform for Business Consulting. I graduated after four years with three unique IT-related work experiences. It was a major influence in my selection of Consulting as a career direction. The work experience also helped me get a job immediately after graduating.
Why did you choose to study at Brunel and why would you recommend Brunel to others?
There were multiple factors in my decision.
- LOCATION - Proximity to home in Wiltshire, along the M4 and ready access into Central London.
- DEGREE FORMAT - It was quite unusual for Computer Science to be offered as a Sandwich course, and that was important in terms of gaining work experiences.
- STAFF - The faculty I met on my interview visit were great (including the then Head of Department, Professor Pitteway), and made me feel very good about a decision to select Brunel as my first choice.
What is your best memory of studying here?
Many memories spanning general campus life, friendships formed, and participation in clubs (including Darts Club and Kart Club). The Brunel Darts Club orchestrated a major local community event each year where we contracted for a world class darts player to come for the night and play one game against "the top players" from 15-20 of the local pubs. It was a major draw and we had sell-out crowds each year - all cheering for their nominated player. Eric Bristow, John Lowe and Jocky Wilson all featured in my 1979-83 window.
If you could give one piece of advice to new students, what would that be?
Stay focused on a few things you know are important and don't overthink / stress about the rest. Also bear in mind that long term friendships and relationships will develop and solidify over time. The people you meet in week one might not be the people you'll be spending time with later in your time on campus.
What would be your top tip or advice for new graduates as they begin their career journey?
I think the most important thing is to understand what makes you tick. What is it that you most enjoy doing? What inspires and motivates you? Assuming you're able to figure that out, try to map into a career/role that ticks those boxes. And as you progress in your career, take advantage of opportunities to learn and develop.