She is a deal-maker

Interview

Why did you pursue a career in Deals? ​

The EDGE programme was a big factor in my decision to pursue a career in Deals. It was a great honour to be part of the first official Edge Programme (Cohort 1) and it is one of the best life decisions I have ever made, to join PwC, Deals and the Edge Programme. The fact you get to experience working across the different departments and also get the opportunity to travel was something that really appealed to me. Knowing the Deals department was project driven and the idea of working on busy short-term projects alongside some of the best people in the industry was something that definitely attracted me to Deals. ​

Tell us about your role, what does it involve?

Currently a Manager in the BRS department in Ireland, my role tends to vary depending on what is going on in the market, but currently on a team completing an Independent Business Review of a pharmaceutical company. This involves us completing in depth financial analysis of the company and preparing a report on their viability. Alongside this, day to day you will find me working on a commercial real estate receivership portfolio, which involves ultimately disposing of investment properties for a bank. These two projects vary in approach and output, but both allow me to deliver value to clients while working alongside highly capable and motivated people.​

What is it about the role you enjoy the most?

Definitely the people. My team would describe me as a natural people person so it's great that my role allows me to have daily interactions with both clients and team members. Weirdly, I also love a little bit of pressure and the quick turnaround of jobs! It keeps me motivated, engaged and excited! ​

Did you have any role models?

This question was one that got me thinking. I probably have role models for different aspects of life. From a work perspective, the two names that spring to mind are Orla Fisher and Ciara Higgins. Both are directors within Deals and both are tremendous leaders. They are strong advocates for learning and development and recognise the importance of challenging their teams but in a constructive way - they bring people along with them on the journey, but equally demonstrate great empathy for those around them. They really make everyone feel important and part of something special.​

What piece of advice would you give to female recruits considering joining a career in PwC Deals?

Go for it! It is the best decision I have ever made!!​

What is the best piece of advice you have been given about developing your career? Back yourself!! It is very easy to think you can’t do something or are not the best person for the job. It is important to know your worth and just know that you wouldn't be presented with these opportunities if you weren’t capable!​

What do you attribute your success to?

Being highly motivated and driven have definitely played a factor in my success. I have never tried to be anybody other than me and clients and colleagues probably appreciate and respect that! There have been many people that have helped in my success path to date, including Ken and Declan (our local BRS Partners) - They have afforded me opportunities to work on some really interesting and important projects to ensure my continuous development and learning, but also constantly challenging me. Orla Fisher leads a seamless graduate program ensuring we have every opportunity to pass our exams and then most importantly my parents are a huge attribute here. The continuous support and guidance my parents have provided me with has allowed me to be career focused, but equally they always keep me grounded!​

What has been the highlight of your career in Deals with PwC?

I have had so many different milestones in my career to date. There are many highlights for different chapters of my career but personally for me, passing my ACA exams would be something that springs to mind - it will always go down as one of the best days in my personal life and professional career to date and it is a memory that I have no doubt will stay with me for the rest of my life! ​

What is the best thing about working in a profession traditionally dominated by men? - This is probably something that I have never thought about because lucky for me, my experience has been very positive to date. We have a lot of strong male and female role models within our team and industry. The best thing about it is probably seeing how it is changing and how there are more and more women in leadership positions in our own organisation, but also in the clients that we work with.

Click to view Niamh Halton on LinkedIn