I’m Muhsin, apprentice management consultant at Atkins, a member of the AtkinsRéalis Group. I work within ADS&T, which stands for Aerospace, Defence, Security and Technology. I work in a team that makes a direct difference, keeping individuals safe and helping governments and corporations achieve their security goals.
What did you want to be when you grew up?
I was always interested in the world of business, whether that was watching the stock market or looking into the business models of different organizations. It wasn’t until I attended career fairs and gained work experience, that I finally identified management consultancy as a sector that suited my skills and attributes.
What subjects did you like at school?
I studied business at A level, and it gave me an idea of how businesses function. I enjoyed maths because it enabled me to build my problem solving and critical thinking skills. Studying IT fuelled my interest in technology and made me want to work in a sector that merges business with key technological platforms.
What made you decide to pursue your career in consulting?
It’s everything I’d hoped for: exciting, challenging and very rewarding. I can work on a range of projects and drive critical changes in large organizations. As an apprentice I’m gaining hands-on experience, which constantly propels me to adapt, hone and develop new skills. I’m being exposed to many different people and institutional cultures, and developing my professional networks.
Who inspires you at Atkins?
The friendly culture and the great learning environment is massively inspiring for me. I admire the visionaries who help show me the bigger picture, and my fellow team members who help me build my technical skills.
What’s your view on the culture of Atkins?
As an apprentice, joining a large company, it can be daunting at times. However, Atkins’ strong, friendly culture has made my on-boarding easy and seamless. Everyone is willing to help and maintain the collaborative environment where individuals can innovate. The company’s values help create a transparent environment which helps us develop our abilities and skillsets.
Where do you see your career going?
Having completed my Level 4 industry qualification in project management, I’m progressing onto a degree apprenticeship with Atkins to study business management. I see myself becoming a senior consultant at a young age, driving and managing sectorial changes and client relationships.
What has been your proudest career moment?
At a client location I was given the opportunity to provide the client with a new and innovative perspective. I was given a large amount of responsibility, ranging from developing automated reports to engaging with senior stakeholders. I exceeded in delivering the solution, impressing the organization, and showed the true value and impact an apprentice can have on an engagement.
What is the single best thing about working at Atkins?
The invaluable exposure you receive as an apprentice, having the ability to meet a variety of people and building key relationships with colleagues and clients.
What would you say to someone who is considering a career in consulting?
Starting out as an apprentice consultant should be considered a great alternative to university. It allowed me to get started in my career at an early age. I gained useful skills applying my learning on-the-job with supportive team members – and most importantly I’ve been earning.
What do you do when you're not at work?
Outside of work, I enjoy spending time at the gym. I’m a huge foodie and enjoy eating at different restaurants, exploring new cultures through food. I’m also a big fan of comedy films and sit-coms.
Interested in starting your career right away as an Apprentice? Apply to join our programme, here.