New Year, New Career?

Unsurprisingly, the area of technology also remains a big focus says Paul. “The open roles we have in consulting are very exciting – the range of work we’re doing with clients is phenomenal”.  In many respects we are “problem solvers” he says, and Paul believes the range of issues confronting clients has “never been more complex and more often than not they don’t have the specific expertise available on tap and that’s where our client facing teams can really add real value.”

With this in mind he cites roles ranging from data and analytics and cyber security to people and change and technology consulting. Specifically, Paul lists opportunities for security architects, business modellers, technology risk advisors, internal audit and UX Advisory. “There’s no business problem our clients wouldn’t ask for our insight and support to help to fix” says Paul, and he encourages anyone mulling over a move to get in touch to find out more about specific roles.

Graduate recruitment is particularly important. “Graduate recruitment is a constant for us,” Vance points out. “We hired almost 500 graduates in the last year and we deliver an award-winning graduate training programme across all areas of the firm with exceptional opportunities to learn from and train with the best. In addition to the above, we are planning on recruiting additional graduates in our Risk Consulting practice, which provides premier advisory services to our clients and can offer graduates a rewarding and fulfilling career.”

The three-and-a-half-year programme covers everything required for a successful career in business. “After the initial training period, our graduates move on to gain other business and leadership skills and they will typically come through to management grades in the firm within five years. As part of this progression they get experience of work with the senior leadership team at the same time as they are completing their professional exams and receiving other training. The programme is evolving all the time. It’s something we are constantly innovating.”

With its range of clients Paul cites the opportunity to work with some of the most innovative and entrepreneurial people in Ireland. KPMG is also committed to investing in young talented people across Ireland, including its support for women in sport as exemplified by its sponsorship of the KPMG Women’s Irish Open golf tournament and its support for leading golfer Leona Maguire and outstanding jockey Rachael Blackmore.

Of course, it helps that KPMG is also an appealing place to work. “You get to work with some of the brightest business leaders in Ireland,” says Paul.  “What’s more, KPMG has an incredible range of clients and we offer promotional opportunities four times a year.”

There’s also a sense of community and camaraderie. It’s a truism to say its not just about the day job says Paul Vance. “I am always impressed with just how much our people, including these who have just joined us, want to get involved in more than just their day job. Paul cites the principal of skills- based volunteering which lies at the heart of KPMG’s approach to giving back to the communities in which it operates. “Themes such as literacy are central to many of our programmes. Our volunteers take part and lead in many areas on the theme of reading and all the feedback is highly positive.”

Such programmes support the association with the KPMG Childrens Books Ireland awards, to be held in Dublin in May. “There’s much more to it than the day job,” adds Paul.  “From sports and social activities and being able to be involved in our highly successful and award-winning corporate citizenship programme with its emphasis on skills-based volunteering. It’s a very friendly, encouraging environment. And it’s a really good chance to make an impact in a well-known global brand while pursuing a rewarding career.”