Even though many of our graduates will have progressed in their careers since completing a case study, they are still of interest to students who wish to gain an understanding of the world of work.

My main responsibility is to work on multiple projects commissioned to us by our clients, helping them to solve problems by providing informed recommendations. In addition, I write proposals aiming to win new work for the company, widening our portfolio of clients and creating new income. I help establish and maintain relationships with clients whilst taking responsibility for sections of the project under a project manager. To deliver on these projects, I use lots of different methods. To evaluate the programme or policy, I use desk research to review key documents and analyse statistical data. I also conduct interview programmes and surveys. Reporting is a key part of my role with regular updates and formal reports required for each project. On a more constant basis I am responsible for booking my time to multiple projects and proposals per week.

My days are quite variable but will mostly involve me being at my desk working on different aspects of projects, perhaps with some phone calls or meetings in-between. I travel around once a week to London depending on what meetings with clients we have. The desk work will mostly involve general research tasks on client projects: interviews, surveys, quantitative data analysis.

I love meeting our clients and learning about what they do; it helps me better understand what we can do to help them solve the big issues in society. Speaking to people during interviews is always interesting as I get a small glimpse into their personal and professional lives.

The multitasking between projects can sometimes be overwhelming if a large amount of work from each one hits me in one week. Otherwise the work is challenging in a good way, pushing me to learn.

The day-to-day work is very similar to academic research - data collection, analysis, and reporting. However, there are multiple projects running at once with various clients in different sectors and across the world. This variety appealed to me; gaining knowledge, experience and contacts I couldn't have accessed in a more limited academic role. The travel opportunities and salary were attractive for my first professional role.

I use the skills gained from my PhD every single day, I couldn't do this job without it. Project management, data collection/analysis, and communication skills are the most important. My PGCert in learning and teaching gives me sector specific knowledge about university learning practices and systems which is useful as we work with these stakeholders all the time. My undergraduate degree doesn't have any obvious links that I can make.

My only role so far has been with Technopolis immediately after I finished my PhD in August 2017. I did do many paid and voluntary roles during my PhD: Students' Union trustee, School committee student chair, worked part time in the careers service plus many more.

My short term goal is to progress in my current role to a more senior level and developing expertise. I aim to spend some time abroad to widen my portfolio globally as well. My long term goal is to become a vice-chancellor for learning and teaching at a top university where I can enact positive change for the lives of students. Alternatively, I would aim for a similar position in government or another government funded body e.g. Universities UK. I doubt that I would pursue any more qualifications now I have my PhD, except if sector specific qualifications are required as part of a professional role.

Companies are now starting to recognise the value of PhD graduates, giving them more advanced starting roles and salaries. Consultancies are some of the first to do this as they know we have experience in what they need. Be aspirational in what roles you apply for. Head to the careers service as soon as possible to discuss all this and to sort your CV/cover letter as company deadlines are now sometimes 12 months in advance.

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