Tech Trailblazers

Tech Trailblazer: Sean Browne

  • What does your typical day look like?

    Every day is really varied, depending on what the key areas of focus are at the time.

    Typically my day involves lots of interaction with clients and colleagues, planning and executing on key tasks, and working through my to-do list.

    I like to adopt an organised approach to my day, but always with one eye on the fact that even the best laid plans can change, and I might need to pivot to deal with something unexpected!

     

    What are you currently working on?

    I’m currently leading a team of business analysts who are working across a broad portfolio of projects. I’m also part of a wider team working on a client Transformation Programme.

     

    What inspired you to join this company in particular?

    I joined EY in January 2023. I really admire what EY stands for in terms of building a better working world and creating long term value for our clients, our people and society – this is something we genuinely put at the centre of everything that we do. This ethos combined with the trajectory of the company, the growth, career progression and opportunity this presents meant that when an opportunity arose to join EY, it was an easy decision for me to make.

     

    Did you always want to work in Tech?

    I studied Economics at University and started my career in Insurance and Financial Services. However, I have always had an interest in Tech. I spent a considerable amount of time working in Analytics, which really allowed me to bridge the divide between Finance and Technology and overtime, I found myself drawn to the Technology side more and more. Over the last 10+ years I have been more focused on Project and Programme Delivery and Digital Transformation. Having a strong grounding in numbers and finance has really helped me working within Tech, particularly with Tech Consulting!

     

    What’s your favourite part about your work?

    I really enjoy the variety of work and diverse range of people I get to interact with day to day, whilst being able to do so in a hybrid working environment. I split my time between the EY office, client site and working from home. It opens up so many opportunities, helping organisations attract talent from across NI – including Fermanagh, where I live.

     

    What would you say to other people considering a job in this industry (Tech)?

    Do it! Tech is a really exciting industry, fast moving, with lots of opportunity. Don’t rule yourself out just because you may not be in a Tech role at the moment, a lot of the skills and experience you have will be transferable for the right role.

     

    What do you consider to be the most important tech innovation or development in recent years?

    Undoubtedly it has to be AI and Generative AI. These technologies have already and will continue to disrupt industries and bring positive and meaningful change and improvements to organisations. At the same time, we also need to be mindful of the potential risks involved and importance of implementing and leveraging these Technologies in an ethical way – both must be considered in tandem.

     

    What tech gadget could you not live without?

    It would have to be my phone and my ear-pods combined. It can get quite busy balancing work and home-life, especially with a young family, but whenever I get a chance, I really like to get out for a run or a walk and catch up on a podcast or audio book.

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