Amelia Brown

Tell us about your background.

I grew up in Perth, Western Australia. After graduating high school I moved to New York City for a year to work as a model. I then returned to Australia and headed to Sydney to study mechanical engineering and chemistry at the University of Sydney. I finished my degree at the end of 2016.

I applied online to Partners in Performance (PIP) and went through the interview process. I received my offer around March 2016 and started as a business analyst in early 2017.  Ultimately, I decided to join PIP because I enjoyed the interview process, clicked with the ‘PIPers’ I had spoken with, and felt that I would learn and grow the most in this position.

What’s your job about?

My role as a business analyst is incredibly varied. I’m responsible for supporting my team through analysis, building presentations, developing models, collecting data and more. Every day is different, depending on the project and team.

My last engagement was a business improvement project for a large dairy company. My time was spent in the manufacturing area, coaching clients, putting together workshops, working on analysis, and taking care of things that came up and needed attention. After I left the client site, I would head back to my hotel for a quick gym session and then often meet my team for dinner.

Could someone with a different background do your job?

Definitely. There is no specific background that you must have to do this job. Everyone that succeeds in this role shares some common traits – tenacity, the ability to learn, and a desire to work hard and succeed.

What’s the coolest thing about your job?

I get to work with clients and help them unleash their potential every day. I really enjoy seeing the impact of the work I’m doing on projects. With my experience as a business analyst at PIP, there are several different directions my career could take, which makes me excited for my future.

What are the limitations of your job?

I work long hours and travel while on projects. Most weeks I am out of town which can take a toll on your personal life. However, I have never felt totally overwhelmed and have always had the support of my team.

3 pieces of advice you’d give your younger self as a student...

• Put the hours in to get good grades at university – it keeps your options open. Choose the degree that you think you can succeed in. Consulting companies recruit candidates from a variety of degrees, but the common denominator amongst candidates is that they have been successful in their chosen field, and have the grades to prove it.
• Get involved in clubs and societies, even if they aren’t relevant to your degree. At the start of the year, have a chat with people who are involved in clubs that seem interesting to you. It’s a great way to meet people you might not have otherwise had a chance to meet. You’ll learn new skills, build a network of like-minded individuals, help your resume stand out, and maybe even have some fun.
• Take the opportunity to travel, and if possible go on an exchange. My biggest regret from my university days is not doing an exchange.