From Music Teacher to Lead Developer
Meet Conor, Lead Developer at the Advanced Research and Engineering Centre. Having joined PwC in 2021, Conor shares insights into Operate Digital, and how he started his career as a primary school music teacher but ended up as one of Operate’s Lead Developers. Here’s his story…
Tell us about your career journey and your role at PwC?
I’ve discovered that many people working in technology started out in very different professions and I definitely fall into that category. My initial degree was in Music and I spent most of my 20s as a music teacher. I decided a career in teaching wasn’t for me, so I moved into Information Technology (IT), completing a MSc in Computer Science. I’ve now spent over 20 years in software development, working for Biomedical, Manufacturing and Financial Services companies. I also gained an Open Degree in Mathematics from the Open University along the way.
As a Lead Developer in the Advanced Research and Engineering Centre I’m responsible for a number of software development teams and projects. Alongside the other Lead Developers, I am in charge of setting development standards and best practices, investigating and introducing new technologies and ensuring we align with wider PwC technology standards.
What excites you about your role?
The pace of technology change is one of the most rewarding and at the same time challenging aspects of a career in software development. During my career I’ve had to learn about new technology every two years or less to stay ahead of the trends. In the team we are very lucky to be involved in really cutting-edge areas of software development; it’s a hugely exciting prospect.
What do you enjoy most about working in Operate Digital?
When I started, the Advanced Research and Engineering Centre was in its early stages, so I had the opportunity to influence the technology and culture as the team grew. It’s this feeling of trust in its people and the support that, for me, distinguishes PwC from other companies.
Another massive positive is the new office in Belfast. It’s by far the best working environment I’ve experienced and shows how the office space really makes a difference to the working day. We’ve also established close links with the local universities, so postgraduate researchers from those institutions will be working with us as we move into new technology areas like VR, 5G and Blockchain.
Tell us a little about yourself?
Outside of work, my wife and I have two teenage children and two cats. I’m trying to get back into running again - I completed two marathons back in 2017 but let’s just say lockdown impacted that but the Belfast office runs free fitness classes and I’ve taken advantage of the yoga classes on offer. I’ve also played brass instruments since school and nowadays I play in the Strabane Brass Band.
What are three pieces of advice you’d give someone considering joining the Operate team?
Ask all the questions. There really are no silly questions, so always ask about the technologies or projects you work on.
Get involved in social events and the culture of the team.
Look for training opportunities and ask the team about training courses to help your career progress.
