Conor Forde, Director PwC

You've spent a significant amount of time building your career outside PwC Ireland. How does it feel to be back?

I first joined PwC in 2011 and left the firm for over four years. Rejoining felt natural, and picking up the tempo and rhythm of work wasn't difficult.

I had a few double-takes from colleagues walking around the building. One person said: "I thought you had left. Sorry, I'm not sure why I thought that." I guess working from home during the pandemic played a part, as people wouldn't have seen me face-to-face. Overall, it's been very positive and I feel enormous pride.

What brought you back to PwC Ireland? And what are the biggest changes you have seen?

Two key factors brought me back. Firstly, the sheer diversity of work and the trust and autonomy granted to deliver that. PwC works with amazing clients who look to us to support them.

Secondly, it’s the people. The calibre that PwC attracts and retains is unique. It’s a hugely collaborative environment, which is why the business is so successful. It’s embraced at all levels in Ireland and throughout our global network.

It’s fair to say PwC is constantly evolving and reinventing itself. An institution can’t survive for over 160 years without embracing change. I wasn’t surprised to see developments and change in some areas while I was away – notably our technology and digital landscape.

The people side of the business has also evolved. The flexible rewards and recognition structures are brilliant. The free breakfast initiative, the Seoda Points and the Your Choice Platform were all created during my time away from the firm.

Did you experience any challenges in returning?

Former colleagues were generous with their time and helped me navigate the new systems and processes. The only challenge was all the new faces. The consultancy practice has grown by over 250 people since 2018, so learning all my new colleagues' names, skills and backgrounds took me a while. Otherwise, it was seamless, to be honest.

One of our core values at PwC is to make a difference. How does working at PwC allow you to make a difference both personally and professionally?

From a professional standpoint, we hold ourselves accountable for making a difference. Our clients want us to make a difference in their organisations, so we must also challenge ourselves.

Having a solution-based approach allows us to think of new and innovative ways to make a difference to our clients.

On a personal level, PwC launched a Green Light to Talk Mental Wellbeing Action Strategy. This is something I care about greatly. I’ve been fortunate enough to be selected to be an advocate, which includes specialised mental health first aid training.

Any parting thoughts for our readers?

If you’re considering a return to PwC, open a dialogue with people you know or are close to. I found this incredibly helpful in shaping the role I’d return to. PwC is constantly changing and innovating – my current position didn’t exist before I left.

If you enjoy stimulation, autonomy and working with collaborative teams, you’ll have a fulfilling career with PwC.