From networking to setting work boundaries, a risk professional shares her career advice

So while some companies may think of risk as a function that helps them avoid potential problems, Louise explains, risk professionals can help build strong risk and resilience capabilities to differentiate those organisations that thrive and those that fight to survive.

“Incorporating risk management into your strategy brings a lot of benefits and really unlocks potential. If organisations don’t take risks, they don’t progress, but taking risks intelligently is one of the ways they can transform and survive, while creating value and building resilience. I think the biggest risk is doing nothing at all.” Louise explains that PwC conducted a global crisis and resilience survey that showed 96 per cent of organisations have experienced a disruption in the last two years, proving that it is not a case of if a business will experience change, but when.

It’s a fast-paced career which requires constant adaptation and learning, which is what Louise loves about it. It does require careful time management, as well as setting good boundaries between your work and home life. As she has progressed through the ranks, she also emphasises the importance of building a good team around you with a multidisciplinary skill set. “There’s a lot of teamwork and collaboration, which I enjoy. It’s also important to create a positive working environment. Having strong leadership skills and communication skills is key to providing direction to both clients, and teams to solve clients’ complex problems and manage their risk profile.”

Louise says that during her time at PwC she has worked with some inspiring female leaders. “I can see the challenging, rewarding careers they’ve had within Risk.” Her advice to anyone starting off in this field rings true for all of us. “Be confident and don’t underestimate your capabilities.”

Louise’s top tips for career success

Working with organisations across many industries, and climbing the ladder within PwC herself, Louise has seen first hand how people succeed in their careers. Here is the advice she would give others.

Learn how to manage deadlines

“It’s challenging and demanding when you’ve got competing deadlines, so good time management skills are key. I use my calendar to block off time to make sure that I have the focus time to complete the tasks that are required, which does require being organised and planning ahead. It is important to prioritise tasks, avoid distractions and allow sufficient time for unexpected delays.”

Set boundaries between your work and personal life

“It’s important to switch off, to allow you to recharge and refocus. Spending time with family and friends is really important to me, and I enjoy team sports – basketball and tag rugby. Make sure that you have time for the things you enjoy, and plan your work day around that as well. Every so often it’s good to take a step back and reflect. You have to adapt at times to manage your work life balance as well, and see what the right balance is at that particular time.”

Build trusted relationships

“I think having strong interpersonal skills is really important for building trusted relationships and networking. You’re constantly dealing with people, from clients, to your teams, so it’s important to be able to effectively interact, communicate and connect with others. Being able to manage relationships is what separates the best people.”

Be confident

“Be confident and don’t underestimate your capabilities. Don’t be afraid to come out of your comfort zone. I think oftentimes we make excuses rather than overcoming our fears. Recognise your strengths, skills and the value you bring to your teams and projects.”

Find a mentor

“Seek out a good mentor as you progress through your career. Someone who can provide guidance, support and opportunities. It might not necessarily be someone you work with, but finding a good mentor and coach can be really helpful. I have, and continue to have, unwavering support from my mentors and leaders as I progress through my career here in PwC.”

Managing risk isn’t about responding to change. It’s about changing the way we see risk, shifting our perspective and considering different angles to anticipate and be agile. To find out how PwC can help your business, visit PwC.ie.

Photography: Kieran Harnett