Richard's journey to BDO is a fascinating one, marked by a deep passion for technology and a commitment to helping others harness its potential. With a background in big tech, where he spent 13 years as a Trainer and Subject Matter Expert, Richard brought a wealth of experience to BDO. His role here allows him to continue his mission of making technology accessible and beneficial to everyone. In this Q&A, Richard shares insights into his career, his day-to-day responsibilities, and what excites him about the future at BDO.
Hi Richard, so let's get started: what was your background before joining BDO?
Well, I've always been in Tech. Before BDO, I was with Apple for 13 years as a Trainer and Subject Matter Expert. I taught the team and customers how to use technology in their day-to-day lives, as well as soft skills like customer service and communication.
However, I wanted to work in a business that had values aligning with my own, where people can be who they are and bring their best authentic selves to work every day. BDO struck me as that business from the get-go. What makes me stay is the people, the challenges, and the work-life balance. I love the work I get to do, being challenged to come up with bigger, better solutions to problems, and the people I work with. Plus, I get to do it all while still spending time with my family! It's a win-win all round!
That's great to hear. So what does your day-to-day role look like?
Well, in the IT Training team, we design and provide training to the rest of the business so they can see how to make their lives easier using technology. Every day is a different challenge, a different problem to solve. We work with every area of the business to identify areas that can benefit from our input, then design and implement solutions.
OK, but how would you describe your job to someone who doesn't understand IT?
In a nutshell, I help people see the benefits and possibilities of technology and how it can help them in their day-to-day lives.
BDO talks a lot about providing a breadth of experience contribute to your overall career satisfaction. What does that mean for you?
Since joining BDO, I've had a lot of opportunities to have different experiences and be part of things that help shape solutions and ideas. The commitment from BDO and my managers to let me do those things gives me confidence that I'll continue to grow and thrive here.
And what about your career trajectory; how do you see that evolving within BDO?
I've been promoted since being here, which was a huge boost of confidence for me. I don't know what the future holds, but I'm confident it will be with BDO. The fact that BDO actively embraces new technologies and opportunities means there will always be more growth opportunities in the IT department.
IT is a pacey industry, so what is it which excites you most about the future of BDO here?
You're right; it's such a fast-paced world where people expect more and want it quicker and better every time. IT is a key tool in helping us deliver more for our clients. Having an IT department ready to move forward with new things means we're in the best place to deliver more for our clients. That mindset of embracing change and looking at every new opportunity means we will play a huge role in the success and growth of BDO in the future.
And what about BDO's focus on empowering employees; how does that help?
BDO's commitment to diversity is the core reason that a lot of the solutions we produce are so effective. If you can get a group of people around a table, from all walks of life, all with differing experiences, viewpoints, and opinions, and empower them to speak out, the solution you're going to get is far more effective. BDO thrives on listening to its teams, and they're way ahead of the curve.
And what about the future, then? What excites you the most?
BDO isn't afraid to look at new things and embrace change. If I think about the last 18 months I've been here, things have changed so much already. The world moves quickly, especially with tech, and BDO isn't afraid to move with it. I'm excited for the next step, the next innovation, and seeing how it can change the way we do things.
But joining an accounting company must have been a change for you. What misconceptions did you hear about the profession?
I guess my biggest one would have been the age-old impression of 'accountants being boring'—nothing could be further from the truth here!
What’s the most difficult bit about working in IT?
I don't think there's anything difficult about working in IT exactly, but the hardest thing is sometimes having to slow yourself or others down to make sure what you do is right. IT is getting so powerful and exciting, especially with things like AI, but sometimes you have to slow down and look at potential impacts that didn't exist before.
BDO provides a great work-life balance, and the ability to work flexibly with WORKable (our agile working framework) means I get to be at home to spend time with my family or get out and do something in the time that would traditionally be spent commuting.
Richard
Senior IT Trainer
Richard's journey at BDO highlights the company's commitment to innovation, diversity, and personal growth. His experiences reflect the dynamic and supportive environment at BDO, where employees are empowered to think creatively and embrace new challenges. Richard's story is a testament to the opportunities available at BDO for those passionate about technology and making a positive impact.