What opportunities has PA offered you?
I joined PA's Melbourne office in 2000 (that’s Melbourne with an 'e' – so our Australian branch) having previously worked as a chemical engineer and for another management consultancy. Since joining I've had the chance to experience life as a postman, electricity provider, banker and even a radiologist!
It's this diversity of work that typically attracts the breed of people PA is after. The thing I've most appreciated in PA has been the opportunity to work in a large range of organisations, both in the private and public sector. PA gave me my first chance to work abroad - I spent a year in Singapore on an assignment to privatise the nation's electricity market. My current assignment may provide opportunities to work in Venezuela, South Africa and Japan. In fact, one of the things that most people are unaware of is the geographic spread of PA's offices and opportunities for work abroad.
What's it like working for PA?
Consultants also have the chance to experience a range of roles on assignments. I've graduated from an analyst role in my earlier days to now being a sole operator helping to shape and lead assignments. I'm currently helping to shape and deliver a strategic programme for a multinational FMCG client that will have major implications for its future revenue growth.
PA also makes a conscious effort to ensure a work-life balance exists for its consultants. PA has been very accommodating of my personal aspirations as well as my working ambitions. In 2002, the company gave me the opportunity of taking a year off to pursue my dream of living and studying in Japan. Following this sabbatical, I transferred from the Melbourne office to PA's headquarters in London. I'd always wanted to work in the UK so the transfer gave me yet another unique opportunity to work in a different culture and acquire new skills and knowledge.
