“My name is Maarten Wijnands and I work at EY Consulting, specifically Technology Consulting. In my role, I implement and change technological systems at our customers so that processes become more efficient, reliable and future-proof,” he says. Why did he choose EY? “During my graduation, I applied to several offices, but at EY, I immediately felt at home. People were open, friendly and there was little distance. I could just be me. In Technology Consulting, I combine impactful change with working on the latest technology, together with teams that want to learn and help.”

“A typical day at work? Doesn't exist. We start with the team in the morning: planning and coordination (with the customer or internally). During the day, we work out analyses together, test choices and take steps. At the end of the day, we conclude: what is the progress, what are the blockages, and what priorities do we set for tomorrow. On average, I spend two days with the customer, the rest in the office (or sometimes at home). I love the office because of the energy of and the exchange with colleagues.”

Growth & Development: Variation, Impact and Mentoring

“The best thing about consulting at EY? You look into multiple cuisines: different companies, teams and cultures. This is how you discover what suits you and where you add value. After four years, I want to increasingly use my experience to guide younger colleagues: helping them avoid pitfalls, build self-confidence and accelerate their development.”

Freedom, trust and communication

“At EY, you get the space and confidence to take on new challenges, even outside your comfort zone. That freedom requires proactive communication: say what you're going to do, do what you say,” he says. He states that there is real flexibility in terms of the weekly schedule. For example, he sometimes works out in the morning and then comes to the office a little later. Or he goes home on time to have a good meal and still opens his laptop in the evening. “Deadlines are actually leading, but with clear agreements, a lot can be done.”

“A lot of people think we make PowerPoint presentations all day long. In reality, we deliver products and change: we implement systems, improve processes and make an impact with end users, even though that's not always in the news.” Maarten explains that through technology & AI, you can offer more quality by working smarter. “With technology, data and AI, we make processes more efficient and automate repetitive tasks. As a result, teams have more time for the difficult, human issues; right where quality grows. What makes me enthusiastic: the enterprise applications of AI. At EY, we get the space to experiment, learn and transfer that knowledge to customers.” He states that the colleague himself is irreplaceable. “AI helps us move forward, but personal contact and trust with the customer: that remains the core of our profession.”

When Maarten is asked what his favorite moment at EY is, he doesn't have to think long. “Sure, the Friday afternoon drinks and ski trips are great! But my favorite moment is actually having coffee with direct colleagues: catching up, laughing a lot, and getting to know each other better than just through work.”

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