"The only constant in life is change" - you got that right Heraclitus! We can all agree that 2020 has brought on a tsunami of change, challenges, and subsequent adaptation. For me, as a young graduate, 2020 has also presented major decisions in my professional life that challenged my thinking on how I was going to navigate this turbulent period.
Last June, I was presented with two job opportunities entirely divorced from each other. The first was an accounting position, which could be considered the safer option of the two, consisting of a standard work-week and an established program of activities. It certainly felt like a sensible and secure opportunity to earn a stable wage and enjoy my free time at home. The second option was a business consultant role; this role included thinking outside the box, inconsistent work hours (5am international calls), and a dynamic and unstructured agenda.
Both were offering similar remuneration, and at first glance, the safer option would seem to be the right decision in these tough times. However, I was reminded of Darwin’s quote “It is not the strongest of the species that survives, nor the most intelligent. It is the one that is most adaptable to change.” It felt safer to take an opportunity that would allow me to grow and learn while working with different companies in diverse industries. So, in the spirit of becoming more resilient and adaptable, I chose NAC Consulting, and I haven’t looked back.
Be careful what you wish for!
It’s been two months at NAC Consulting now, and I can say with all certainty that I am proud of my decision. It has been challenging work and a steep learning curve, but factors such as the work culture paired with having the support of an experienced team with a high work ethic, have helped me to find my feet and develop a strong engagement with the company. NAC has offered me the opportunity to work with companies that motivate me to challenge myself, this includes one of the businesses we work with, an aspiring neobank that has built an entirely different banking experience by being innovative and daring.
Coming from a finance background, I was thrilled with the idea of starting my consulting work with a bank. My first involvement has been with the Compliance and Risk Department, which requires endless hours of reviewing and collating extensive legal documents. While these tasks may seem tedious to some, they are absolutely critical to ensure the bank operates effectively.
It has also been learning experience witnessing how different business’ face the challenges arising from COVID-19, especially how working remotely, social distancing and limitations on travel have distorted both office and user experience. I have been surprised by how my company, NAC Consulting, and our clients have been able to dive in and embrace those challenges and capitalize on the new demands of the “virtual world”.
Finding my feet?
Our way of working at NAC Consulting is focused on helping organizations develop solutions that support sustainable, profitable growth. It’s about connecting people, process and systems that support processes that translate into industry competitive advantage and business resilience. And for me personally, I have been surprised by the level of professional satisfaction I have taken from adding value to my clients and teammates.
The only constant in life is change.
About the Author
Franchesca is an experienced financial accountant and a business leader with global experience. She manages financial activities and outputs whilst incorporating analytical skills to effectively enhance bottom-line performance.
Franchesca thrives on difficult matters: she enjoys the challenge. Her strong analytical and problem-solving skills have proven great attention to detail to minimize human error, waste, and addressing discrepancies. Proactive and innovative, Franchesca contributes to the design, build, and implementation of operational excellence tools and templates. Excellent communicator and proficient in four languages, she is someone who is naturally passionate about connecting with people and driving fundamental change into businesses that share an appetite for success.
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