Tell us about your third-level background and how you landed your current role in Musgrave?
I obtained a BSc in Business Information Systems and an MSc in Data Science & Analytics, both from UCC. I then joined the Musgrave graduate programme straight out of college within the data science stream. I primarily worked with our retail media brand Elevate in my first year and moved into more central data science projects in my second year. I am now working permanently as a data scientist with a focus on strategic commercial projects.
Was this an area that you always wanted to work in?
I think I came to the realisation over time – I had no idea what a data scientist was going into college. I knew I wanted to blend business & software going into college, so I chose BIS as a result. During the degree, I enjoyed the data related modules the most, (vs finance, information systems, cyber security etc.) Through researching I realised I had a huge interest in machine learning & data science, so I pursued a master’s to gain the necessary background in statistics and maths. The past few years have absolutely cemented my love for data science, so I’m delighted with how it’s all panned out.
What is one of the major challenges you have faced in your role to date and how did you overcome it?
I think a key challenge is ensuring data science work translates to commercial value. It’s easy to build something cool & insightful, but the bar is much higher for building something that impacts the revenue line. It requires working with stakeholders to deeply understand the problem and co-creating the solution around that. If you aren’t driving action that makes or saves money for Musgrave, it’s just fancy insight.
How did it feel to be nominated as graduate employee of the year and how did it feel when your name appeared on screen in the Mansion House?
It was truly an honour. I think initially just complete shock, but then it made me feel immensely proud of the work our team is doing in Musgrave. As is the case with all individual awards, there is huge credit due to several of my colleagues too. I have learned so much from my team and the wider business, and I’m very thankful for the mentorship and guidance they have provided so far.
Additionally, I know some of the people who have won the award previously, Aoife Kelleher (Kerry Group) and Max Darby (Musgrave). I was delighted to be recognised in a similar light because I think so highly of them both.
What does an award like this mean in terms of the broader graduate programme at Musgrave and what are some the elements that you believe made it appealing to the judges?
Musgrave has won numerous awards across categories over the years, which speaks to the strength of the programme overall. There is opportunity everywhere in Musgrave, and graduates are encouraged to pursue everything that makes them curious. Naturally, there is a strong blend of building technical skills and domain expertise, alongside developing leadership & communication skills. I think what sets it apart is the diversity of problems and experiences you will face, and the people you learn from along the way.
In terms of elements that appeal to judges, I would imagine how hands-on graduates are is certainly a factor. You are certainly given lots of responsibility early if you show that you can handle it. Similarly, there is a huge focus on ensuring all work drives tangible, measurable commercial value – something that I assume appeals to judges.
Tell us a bit about the atmosphere and culture in Musgrave and how does that help you in the course of your work?
Musgrave is all about people and has organically built a fantastic culture based on this. It’s hard to articulate how willing people are to help each other and collaborate without being there. I suppose it’s somewhat natural when you are building long term relationships with suppliers, retailers & customers – huge trust and honesty is built up on both sides over time.
The culture impacts our work in many ways. We are always innovating because the support exists to get behind an idea someone has. It makes for a vibrant office – fast paced with a lot of creativity and teamwork required. The people aspect certainly helps with problem solving too, because we can work collectively and lean on experts across the whole business.
One thing I love about the culture is you can really get hands on experience from the start, across a very diverse range of teams and brands.
What advice would you have for other graduates on making an effective start in their career?
I think building up as many strong, genuine relationships as possible is key. Firstly, for guidance – there are many people who have travelled the same path before us and can help you find your way. I find it very helpful for goal setting and getting advice on specific situations I have faced. Secondly is for growth – there is so much power in getting honest feedback and using it to keep learning and developing. Thirdly is for opportunity – there are so many people willing to open doors or put you in contact with somebody that can help you with a specific problem.
If you go back could give some advice to yourself when you were both in first year and in final year in college, what would it be?
It sounds cliché, but in first year I would say to make the most of college and enjoy it. You have more free time to get involved in sports / societies and socialise. This helps to build many of the key soft skills required later in life, but in a natural way. The technical mastery and late-night study will come later in your degree, so don’t let it pass you by.
Final year I think would be to stay disciplined. It’s a marathon, not a sprint. Sitting down and thinking about what you want to be in 10 years can help too, because your first job can potentially be a path defining one. For example, thinking about whether you want to be a technical expert, managing a team / product or working for yourself in a decade. There isn’t any rush but ideally you want a job which moves you closer in this direction.
