Jenny Gallagher and Nina Kenyon on working at DMW Group

DMW Group is one of the UK's leading technology consultancies specialised in the design and implementation of digital transformation programmes. How is it work at DMW Group? Managing Consultants Jenny Gallagher and Nina Kenyon share their experiences.

What attracted you to DMW? 

Nina: I had worked with DMW Group on a previous client. The situation was contentious between suppliers, and DMW were the voice of reason, being pragmatic and sensible without blaming anyone. DMW was focused on what was right for the client, but treated everyone with respect and empathy, getting us through a really difficult time.

It felt like the sort of company I wanted to be a part of, with people I wanted to work with and learn from. It took a few years but when I was ready to move, it was the right choice for me. 

Jenny: An impressive client base, a genuine interest in your career and a ‘family-feel’ atmosphere. Luckily, DMW [a member of Nextcontinent] has exhibited these attributes and delivered more.

DMW excel in their capabilities and has chosen them not only due to market demand but also in areas where their people want to grow and learn. This ensures projects are interesting; their people are advancing, and FTSE 100 companies consistently stay in DMW’s client base. 

With weekly catch ups; monthly meetings and bi-annual strategy days; at DMW you are always integrating, sharing ideas and supporting each other; making it a great place to work.

What’s an average day at DMW for you? 

Nina: I don’t think any consultant has an “average day” but that’s the best part of the job. Client delivery remains key, and I’ve spent a lot of this year working on defining roadmaps for services and technology for a variety of customers. 

Jenny: It’s difficult to explain an average day at DMW. Each day brings something new, creating a continuously exciting atmosphere at work. However, most days are filled by client work. I specialise in Programme Management which in DMW standards usually involves a large amount of stakeholder management and ‘fire fighting’ to get a programme back on track. For me, I love reshaping a programme and turning it around from being delayed and over budget to on time and in budget.

What’s your favourite thing about working for DMW? 

Nina: I love the hive mind mentality, there are few client issues, or challenges we face where I can't post a question into Yammer and get multiple responses on things to consider or experiences other people have had which could be relevant. I always feel confident tackling new challenges because I know I have the support, knowledge and experience of the full company. 

Jenny: The people. My first few months at DMW were during the summer holidays and I was on a new client with one other DMWer. It was a challenging client and project with tight deadlines. My colleague had holiday booked leaving me seemingly in quite an isolated position. Come Monday morning, my first day on client site alone, I had 3 emails/messages from other colleagues offering help and support or even just coffee. This is a prime example of DMWers looking out for each other. This team feel creates the DMW culture of inclusivity; trust and commitment.

What’s your favourite benefit the firm offers? 

Nina: Every employee gets an annual training budget, and the autonomy to decide how to spend it. I enjoy that I can decide what I’m interested in learning, and how I’d like to develop rather than follow a curriculum or a rigid career path. Technology is constantly changing, and that’s what makes our industry exciting, being able to learn about new solutions or change skills to meet the market I’m interested in, is a fantastic benefit. 

Jenny: Flexibility in your holiday allowance. Personally, holiday days are invaluable, and I will flex where possible to maximise this time and jump at the option to buy an extra 5 days. For others, the extra pay by flexing down 5 days potentially leads to a nicer Christmas present. Either way, this it is a great example of DMW looking to meet everyone’s personal values. 

How does DMW motivate you to give your best? 

The trust DMW puts in all their employees is a great motivation to give your best. I feel trusted to represent DMW, give my opinion because its valued, raise concerns because I care about the issues and act with integrity because DMW is small enough where the reputation of every employee counts. 

What aspect of your role do you enjoy the most? 

Nina: I enjoy the variety of my job, I love to learn and be challenged and moving between clients and projects frequently means there’s no opportunity for me to get bored or stagnate in my career.

Jenny: It's been a steep learning curve, full of challenge. I’ve worked on a range of clients in each of the industry sectors and have had to continuously grow my core skills. In particular in IT Strategies, Quality Assurance and Programme Management. This has allowed my confidence in my ability to grow.

What advice would you give recent hires? 

Nina: Speak out if you have an idea, or you want to do something, you’ll get a lot of support if you’re passionate about it.

Jenny: The more you put in; the more you achieve. DMW values your effort and involvement; it will never be overseen. This also extends to ‘DMW life’ and not just work. The numerous clubs; CSR events and social groups cater for everyone and ensure you hit that that work/life balance. And what better way to get to know your CEO than on the ski slopes.