Ex-PwC now at tech start-up
Simon spent a few years working at PwC before joining his current company http://www.qubitproducts.com/" rel="nofollow">QuBit Digital, a tech start-up backed by 4 former Google employees. "If it goes wrong, you can always get another job." Good luck guys and thanks for sharing your story.
Currently...
I am working as an analyst for a digital strategy and technology company called QuBit Digital. QuBit Digital was founded in January 2010 by 4 ex-Google employees who saw the opportunity to work closer to companies to assist them in developing their online strategy.
Online companies are overburdened by data which provides generic information as to how they are performing online. My role is to sift through this data, analyse trends and convert this data into real strategy which can help companies to improve their bottom line.
Before I escaped...
Prior to joining QuBit Digital, I was working in the Valuation and Strategy department at PricewaterhouseCoopers working in Financial Services.
The role was more about measuring value and number crunching, as opposed to making a difference and helping improve performance.
My moment of truth...
Prior to PwC and throughout university I developed websites for local businesses and worked in online marketing. Combining this knowledge with the understanding of finance means that working for an advisory-technology business is a perfect match for me.
Working in a small organisation, which is nimble and dynamic, and being in a position where I can make a difference is what makes this a dream for me.
My moment of truth: Having a conversation with my best friends about where I wanted to be. They knew that my home is in the online world and suggested that after 3 years in finance I should find my way back.
Planning for it...
Just weighing up the pros and cons and realising that if you are going to join a start-up and make a difference, it's best to do it before you are too far into another career.
The worst and best bits...
Best thing: Just being able to innovate and be creative in an industry that is still in its infancy. I can help shape some of the thinking in the space.
Best advice...
If it goes wrong, you can always get another job. Just do what it is that interests you. If you open the paper at the weekend and the first section you look at is Technology - that's where you need to be working.
Useful resources and information...
Friends, family and Google.