Olande Adekunle - On Transitioning From Philosophy To Tech Consulting
Interviewed by Nkem Adigwe
Olande Adekunle
Nkem: Please, tell us a bit about yourself.
Olande: I am Olande Adekunle, a senior technology consultant at EY. I have over 5 years’ experience spanning across sales and product development at a leading FMCG, BTL marketing, technology operations, financial services, and project management. As the only daughter in a family of 5, I learnt resourcefulness early on in life and I am passionate about financial literacy, public speaking and Debate. In my spare time, I volunteer with multiple organizations that are passionate about teenagers and young adults teaching leadership, personal hygiene and financial literacy. I am passionate about living a Christ-like life that is rich in experiences and joy.
N: You’ve had an interesting career so far. From majoring in philosophy to working in sales, and now tech consulting. How did you transition to consulting?
O: It started with a realisation that I wanted more than the routine my then-current job offered me. After making that discovery, I decided I wanted to move to a new field/industry. I did my research, consulted senior colleagues I respect and admire, and decided to transition to consulting. It took me roughly four months to make that career change.
N: Did you face any difficulties or challenges during the course of your transition?
O: There was a bit of pushback during negotiations. My age did not match the demands I made. Why should a 26-year-old ask for an assistant manager position (that’s what a senior 2 is)? With the help of my mentor, I aced the interviews and got the position I wanted. I conceded the pay, but overall I have no regrets. My transition process was largely smooth, and I had great team support to make integration fast and easy.
N: What’s your day-to-day schedule as a senior tech consultant with a Big4 firm?
O: My schedule is usually intense. My day starts as early as 7 am with several clients and colleagues due to time differences. Then there’s the brainstorming part to provide solutions to problems and lastly detailed reporting on all engagements. I also try to squeeze in time for one or two learnings or courses.
N: What would you say was a pivotal moment in your career?
O: Being entrusted to project manage an entire service line within Ernest & Young. What I have learnt and I’m still learning cannot be taught in the 4 walls of a classroom.
N: What advice would you give a young Nigerian lady looking to start a career in consulting?
O: Don’t limit yourself. Do the research if it is what you want, ensure you do excellent work, keep learning, take feedback in stride and don’t lose your identity to the rat race. If you stand for nothing, you’ll fall for anything, so please act with integrity.
N: What are your career expectations, if you would like to share them?
O: My short-term projection would be to make manager. However, I actually want to take a gap year and broaden my perspective of the world. Another career change is definitely in sight for me, but it will still be within the technology space.