#GradStories Gavin Buttimore, Consultant, BDO (Eaton Square)

What's your name, job and employer?

My name is Gavin Buttimore and I'm a Technology Implementations Consultant for BDO's management and technology consultancy service, BDO Eaton Square.

What does your job involve?

I'm responsible for implementing HR solutions within Ireland and the UK. Under my remit I would be responsible for analysing a client's processes that they currently have in place, and based on that I would be gathering the requirements and then putting together a solution document. I'm responsible for the implementation, delivery and configuration of a system while sticking to project deadlines.

What skills are important to be successful?

Number one is communication, both written and verbal. It's very important at the outset of the project that you ask the right questions so you can come up with the right solution. The second most important skill is time management. Within a project there is an awful lot of moving parts and different deadlines that you have to meet. It's your responsibility to own the project. The third most important skill is problem solving. Typically a client will come to you with a problem and it's up to you to ask the right questions to come up with a solution.

What do you love about your job?

I really enjoy the client interaction, dealing with clients on a daily basis. Whenever you're working on a project you come into contact with lots of different people within a business. Knowing that you're helping them improve a process, coming up with a solution and helping the success of an organisation is something that I really enjoy about my job.

How did you get into your job?

I studied Business Information Systems at UCC. In my four years there I really got a great understanding of business and technology. I studied Business subjects like Strategy and Accounting and developed my technology skills in terms of databases and coding, so when I brought them together it gave me a great platform for a career in technology consulting.

How important was your internship experience?

During my four years in UCC I was able to do a six month internship in Blackrock Asset Management over in Edinburgh. It gave me a great opportunity to work and study abroad. I got to work in a corporate environment while honing my technology, business and client-facing skills. That really set me up for a career in Technology Consulting. When I came to the interview I was a lot more confident because I had worked in a large organisation and had the opportunity to deal with clients while doing my six month internship.