An insight into the life of a Consulting Associate at RSM

Name: Jessie Brannigan

Job Title: Consulting Associate

Office: Dublin   

Joining date: September 2018

Department: Consulting

College attended: University College Cork

Couse undertaken: Commerce

SUMMARY OF ROLE

I first joined RSM in March 2016 as a co-op, on a six-month placement as part of my undergraduate degree, I returned to Consulting in September 2018 as an Associate after my final year and I am now a Consultant.

During 2021 and 2022, I completed an 18-month secondment where I worked onsite within the HR team of a large public sector client. I was fully immersed in a fast-moving public sector HR environment and I gained invaluable experience. 

Since my return from secondment, I primarily work on the Forensic and Investigation Services (FIS) team where I assist in the investigation of workplace complaints, protected disclosures and Trust in Care complaints. 

I also provide Employment Law and HR Advisory services to clients, along with recruitment services. Needless to say, the work I do is extremely varied and no two days are the same, which I love!

WHAT’S BEEN THE HIGHLIGHT SO FAR?

The people who I work with. From day one, everyone has been so approachable, friendly and good fun. Since the move to a hybrid work environment, we see each other in person less however, everyone makes the effort to still keep in touch, both on a professional and personal level. 

WHAT’S BEEN YOUR BIGGEST CHALLENGE SO FAR?

Migrating from a Consulting FIS role to an internal HR role. As the roles are so different, it was a bit of a shock to the system when I started my secondment in an internal HR team! I had to get used to far more systems and processes and I even needed to adjust the manner in which I communicated to a more informal tone. I got the hang of it after a few months however and, thankfully, my move back to the FIS team in 2022 was not as challenging. 

WHAT’S SURPRISED YOU MOST ABOUT WORKING AT RSM?

How varied the work is – every day I am doing something different, which I love. I feel that would be very difficult to get in another company. When I tell people what I do each day they are genuinely surprised at how diverse my workload is!

WHAT’S NEXT FOR YOU AT RSM?

I have recently completed an Advanced Diploma in Applied Employment Law in the King’s Inns therefore I am eager to put what I have learned into practice when advising clients on HR and Employment Law matters.

WHAT’S YOUR TOP TIP FOR SOMEONE LOOKING TO APPLY TO RSM?

Really do your research for the interview. Be aware of the service lines RSM offer and keep up to date with RSM news through social media and their website, there is plenty there to keep you well-informed!

DESCRIBE RSM IN 3 WORDS

Evolving, dynamic and inclusive.