Gaurav Singh - NCI Graduate Story

Gaurav is a 2020 MSc Management Graduate. Gaurav had experience as an analyst with EY, and in project management with Sinch and Fujitsu before moving to Dublin. After graduating he secured a role with Accenture as a Technology Delivery Lead Manager.

Tell us a little bit about yourself and your background:

I am a Technology Delivery Lead/Program Manager currently working at Accenture Ireland, with a professional background and Certified SAFe® 5 Agilist/ScrumMaster® CSM/PRINCE2® Practitioner. I hold an MSc in Management and have over 11 years of extensive experience in the technology/IT industry, working as a Technical Program/Project Manager in the technology/engineering/software-development-lifecycle and technology solutions and service delivery team.

How did you hear about your role ?

In terms of acquiring my current role, I was actively seeking employment opportunities through various channels. I applied on job sites, company websites, and even connected with recruiters via LinkedIn. Most of the roles I encountered were advertised through job portals, while some were directly referred to me by recruiters. This approach proved to be successful in securing my current position.

What did the recruitment process involve and how did you prepare for it ?

The recruitment and selection process for each role varies depending on the company and the specific requirements. In my case, I was seeking an experienced hire role, given my substantial work experience in IT/technology project management. My objective was to leverage my knowledge and expertise to convert into a successful opportunity.

A typical recruitment process typically comprises four to seven rounds, varying depending on the company. The process commences with applying for the job through job sites or directly on the company’s website. Your curriculum vitae serves as a crucial first step, showcasing your skills and expertise. If your application is successfully screened, you will be contacted by the company’s HR or recruiting team, who will initiate the next stage of the process.

It is important to remain positive and motivated even if you do not receive a callback after screening. Each successful step contributes to your confidence and prepares you for future opportunities.

In my experience working in technical roles, the recruitment process typically involves multiple technical interviews with individuals or a panel of recruiters. The final round usually consists of a one-on-one interview with the leadership team of the department or company.

The recruitment process aims to assess your expertise and ensure that you meet the company’s requirements for the role. Successful completion of all these assessments demonstrates your dedication and potential.

Upon successfully crossing the final hurdle, it is essential to acknowledge your achievements and feel proud of your accomplishments.

What do enjoy most about your current role ?

I have always been a people person, and my role as program manager provides me with numerous opportunities to interact and work with diverse teams and individuals. I live by the mantra that “The only constant is change, and the only way to navigate it is to keep moving forward.”

As an international student studying for a master’s degree in management, I obtained a Stamp 1G residence permit with a two-year work permit in Ireland. Upon successfully completing my master’s program, I commenced my first job as a contractor with Project Manager role, which was also granted a Stamp 1G permit. This self-sponsored job role allowed for a smooth transition, and I subsequently switched to my current employer, where I continue to hold a Critical Skills visa.

My typical day involves multitasking in my current role as a Technology Delivery Program Manager. As such, I am involved in multiple programs, collaborating with various teams and individuals, and ultimately strive for the success of the Program or Project we are working on. The role also entails managing stakeholders both internally and externally, working with clients.

What has been the most challenging part of your graduate journey ?

The COVID-19 pandemic was undoubtedly the most challenging aspect of my graduate journey. In March 2020, during the middle of my second semester, the world was caught off guard by the emergence of this global pandemic. This uncertainty affected me and everyone else

Classes transitioned to online mode, and not only did I complete my remaining second semester studies online, but I also completed the entire master’s program from there, including the dissertation submission and convocation, all virtually. It was a unique and challenging experience to be a student during this time. 

The job market became highly unstable, with a rise in entry-level roles in the IT sector. However, the question of other industries and higher roles became concerning.

Coping through these times and challenges required immense mental strength. Giving up was neither an option nor a solution; instead, it was essential to persevere and navigate through these difficult days.

Top 3 tips for students and graduates entering the Irish job market?