Interview with Molly Keers - L&D Consultant at PwC

  Name: Molly Keers

  Position & Organisation: L&D Consultant - PwC Operate,   part of PwC UK

  Number of Employees: 26,000 in the UK,  327,000 globally in   PwC Network. 

  Time in Post: Almost six years 

Tell us about your business in a sentence:

PwC Operate is the operational delivery arm of PwC that provides global support to our clients' Managed Services needs. We assist clients in various sectors, including both the public and private sectors, in addressing a wide range of challenges.

Give us an idea about your early life and career:

After completing my degree, I joined PwC in May 2018 and worked in the Financial Crime department. Throughout my time there, I held various positions and discovered a passion for working with people, especially in terms of coaching and helping others grow. I wanted to pursue this interest in a more structured role, so I transitioned to The Academy at Operate, PwC Operate's bespoke learning and development team supporting our people in operational delivery excellence. As part of the training and development team within Operate, I have been responsible for designing and delivering technical and operational training programs for both new hires and experienced individuals within the firm.

What are the key challenges you face in your role?

Staying updated on evolving learning technologies and methodologies can be challenging, especially with the rapid advancements in this area. To overcome this, I prioritise continuous learning, reading industry publications and participating in online sessions. It is crucial to evaluate new technologies and methodologies to ensure their suitability for the needs of PwC and our clients. Being proactive and adaptable is essential, especially with the development of GenAI, as we can expect more changes in the immediate future.

What keeps you going when things get tough?

I find it incredibly rewarding to see the value individuals gain from the training programs I design and deliver. Witnessing their growth, not only in their role but also in their confidence, brings me a deep sense of satisfaction. Knowing that I have played a part in their journey of growth and personal development is extremely rewarding. 

Who do you most admire in business locally and/or internationally? Why?

PwC's purpose is to build trust in society and solve important problems. This commitment to making a positive impact on society is something I deeply admire about the organisation. As a representative of PwC UK at the One Young World summit, I had the privilege of witnessing and becoming involved in the organisation's genuine dedication to driving positive change. PwC's active involvement with local charities and social enterprises showcases its proactive approach to making a difference in the community.

How do you unwind after a tough week?

After a tough week, I unwind by playing hockey. I've been playing since I was 4, every Saturday (rain or shine). It's not just great for my physical health, but I find it is great for my mental well-being too. The best part for me is the social aspect of being part of a team and working together. It's just a great way to unwind and have fun!

What piece of advice would you give to a person trying to reach your position?

Valuable business advice I've received is to build strong working relationships and leverage the knowledge of others. Having a strong network allows me to tap into the expertise of others, fostering collaboration and helping me grow personally.

What is your proudest career achievement to date?

My proudest career achievement to date has been successfully completing my Level 5 CIPD qualification in Learning and Development, which has greatly enhanced my abilities in my role. Following the completion of my qualification, I entered the CIPD NI awards and was honoured to win the "Rising Star of the People Profession" award. This recognition was a tremendous accomplishment for me, as it validated my dedication and passion for my work. I was thrilled that the judges could see my commitment and enthusiasm shining through.