60 Seconds with Katie McAvoy

Tell us about your role and your organisation.
My name is Katie McAvoy, and I work as a placement student within the Digital Advisory team at Kainos. We are a consulting team who lead other teams on Advisory projects, building strong relationships with clients and using insights to deliver a pipeline to the end solution.

Give us a brief overview of your career journey so far.
I have only recently started my role at Kainos, but I already feel like a part of the team! I first completed work experience at the company and applied for their Earn as You Learn Apprenticeship, so I was familiar with the company and knew that I wanted to be a part of it. I have only been a part of the company for a month but have already been given responsibilities and invited onto projects, allowing me to really dive in head first and be a part of the very important work that Kainos does.

Describe yourself in 3 words.
Determined. Innovative. Creative.

What is one skill that helps you most in your role?
The ability to take constructive feedback!

What advice do you have for women in your sector/industry/type of role?
Don't give up easily! I first got involved with the company while I was completing my A-Levels and was determined to get involved ever since. I applied for the Earn as You Learn Apprenticeship scheme before starting university, and although I did not secure a place, I reached out for feedback on my application and used this to my advantage to secure a placement role. I learned what experience or skills I was lacking in, and completed summer courses on this to improve my knowledge. Feedback is helpful - listening and acting on it is what will help you get to where you want to be!

Are there any exciting plans in the year ahead in your organisation that you can share with us?
I am excited to get involved with the work done by the Early Careers team, such as student open nights and university career fairs to chat to students about Kainos and help recruit other young women into the technology and business industry!

Who has been your biggest career inspiration and why?
My mum! She has been an Occupational Therapist for 39 years, and recently returned to university in order to complete courses to transfer to a new role within the health service. My mum has a genuine love for her job and shows that it is never too late to expand your career and to learn new things. She has always encouraged me to work hard for what I want and not to give up - she has been my biggest supporter since I was born!

If you had to pick your soundtrack song to get you through the working day, what would it be?
Anything Taylor Swift!

What's your favourite break-time snack?
A cup of tea.

How can you fellow WIB members keep up to date with you and your organisation?
Connect with Katie on Linked In