Nicola Magennis

I joined First Derivative 12 years ago as part of the graduate OPTIONS programme. As a graduate the career choices available to you are endless but First Derivative always stood out to me for its culture, variety of work, professionalism and global presence. Whilst there has been a huge amount of change in the company since operationally these values still hold true today.

I’m a Programme manager in First Derivative’s Client Solutions practice and a lot of people assume my role is made up of project plans and tons of admin work. Whilst I do love a good plan, the role brings so much more in a practical sense when you are on the ground working with a client. Every project can vary but it’s important to have really strong stakeholder engagement skills, be a keen problem solver, a team player as well as loving a good bit of organisation.

You are a combination of the people around you, so surround yourself with people who share the same values as yourself. For me this is positivity, ambition and a willingness to learn and help others.

The variety of projects we cover in client solutions means you are constantly being challenged whether it’s in your own delivery or supporting others across the practice. I’ve been supported through every step of my career and the motivation and attitude of those around me has made it an enjoyable journey.