Iain B.
About me
| Iain B. | |
| Computer Science | |
| Computer Science & Mathematics | |
| Undergraduate | |
| Vanbrugh | |
| 2004 | |
| United Kingdom |
My employment
| Advisor to Early Stage Companies | |
| IMDC (small consultancy) | |
| United Kingdom | |
| Finance and consultancy | |
| Small business (0-49 employees) | |
| 2021 |
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A day in the life of a Advisor to Early Stage Companies in the United Kingdom
Briefly describe the organisation you work for
Myself and my business partner run a consulting firm working with a range of businesses from start-ups to SMEs to the worlds largest airlines. We also make small, targeted investments in businesses where we can add strategic and operational value.
What do you do?
Having spent 20 years in Management Consultancy and Industry roles, I now advise early stage and small technology businesses on strategy, growth and finance, including fundraising
Reflecting upon your past employment and education, what led you to your current career choice?
Having worked for 20 years in large businesses, I decided to share that experience with younger companies, as well as getting hands on in the management and operations of these companies
Is your current job sector different from what you thought you would enter when you graduated?
Yes – I assumed I would be a software engineer
Describe your most memorable day at work
My best days at work are when you work with a globally distributed team and you have the opportunity to meet face to face – it makes the majority of days working remotely across time zones much easier
Are there any challenges associated with your job?
Many – working with small businesses you need to be able to take a big picture view, but also be hands on in all the details of operating the business. Many different decisions from commercial to HR have to be taken on a daily basis
What’s your work environment and culture like?
Working with many different businesses, usually with the founders, we develop very personal relationships with high levels of trust.
What extracurricular activities did you undertake at university and what transferable skills did you develop through these?
I was part of the basketball team, taking the roles of both President and Captain during that time. Invaluable experience of being part of a team and needing to develop leadership skills.
What would you like to do next with your career?
I would like to do more investing, as well as advising the early stage businesses
What top tips do you have for York students preparing for today’s job market and life after graduation?
Keep an open mind and don't rush into any decisions on your first role or career direction.
What topics from students are you happy to answer questions on?
Taking decisions on career, working with early stage businesses, running your own business, the difference between consulting and industry roles – I have broad experience to share
Next steps...
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