What is something surprising that most people don’t know about you?
While many people know about my passion for track and field, particularly 800m running, few are aware that I also played the accordion in an orchestra when I was young.
What is the most valuable lesson you learnt during your time at PwC?
One of the most valuable lessons I learned during my time at PwC is the importance of curiosity, flexibility and quality in consulting. I vividly remember one of my first projects after joining PwC as a Senior Associate a few weeks ago, when our Partner joined us at our project office and held an inspiring speech about the importance of quality, which motivated us to work even harder and complete our task. Our clients trust us, but they have high expectations. If er miss this opportunity, it will be very difficult to regain the customer’s trust.
How did you stay connected with your former colleagues and the PwC community after leaving for the first time? And how did you benefit from the alumni network?
Obviously, you cannot stay connected with everyone. However, a few of my former colleagues became friends, making it easy to meet for lunch or a beer. Besides set-up lunches, Switzerland is a small country, and you often meet former PwC colleagues at events or just bump into each other on the train. These planned or occasional catch-ups are valuable to me. Of course, you talk about the 'good old times' and recent developments in the firm. The alumni network have not only provided me with valuable industry insights and advice but have also opened up opportunities for collaboration and finding new talents.
My advice would be to stay close to your clients and be curious and open to new things
Alexander Schultz-WirthDid you visit one of our after-work parties and / or events as a PwC alumni
Unfortunately, I missed this opportunity. However, I attended one or the other alumni event after rejoining. It feels like a big reunion.
What has changed since you re-joined?
When I reflect on my time at PwC in the past compared to now, one key aspect that stands out to me is the evolution of technology. Back then, we relied heavily on manual processes and spreadsheets to analyze data and prepare reports. I wish we had access to the advanced data analytics tools and automation software that are now available to streamline our work and enhance our efficiency. These tools would have not only saved us time but also allowed us to provide more in-depth insights to our clients. Embracing technology in our work processes is a significant change that I believe has greatly improved the way the firm operates today.
When I rejoined PwC as a direct entry partner in 2015, I valued our partnership. To be a PwC partner is more than a title. The way we treat each other, collaborate, and take care of one another differentiates us in the market.
What skills, experiences and / or accomplishments are you most proud of in your career so far?
Your answer here: I remember my first IT implementation project. I studied economics and had no technology skills. My partner at that time asked me to take the project lead for a system integration project and I accepted the challenge. I learned how important it is to ask the right questions, listen to my project team, and ultimately trust my colleagues and their expertise to make the right decisions on topics on which I had no clue.
What hobbies or interests do you pursue outside of work, and how do they impact your professional life?
I am an enthusiastic runner. During winter, you can find me skiing in Obersaxen on the weekends, and in summer, I enjoy biking and hiking a lot.
What hobbies or interests do you pursue outside of work, and how do they impact your professional life?
My advice would be to stay close to your clients and be curious and open to new things. There are plenty of business opportunities out there and maintaining strong relationships with clients while being open to innovation can lead to great success.