As we challenge the status quo, push boundaries and pave the way for a more inclusive data world, we at FTI Consulting are proud to partner with Women in Data. This partnership is more than just a collaboration; it is a commitment to promoting complete inclusion as the cornerstone of our workplace culture.
Uplifting women in the data industry has never been more important, and to us, it’s beyond gender equity; we believe it is essential for fostering innovation, addressing bias and inspiring future generations of young women to reach their full potential. Women in Data champions this mission by creating a supportive network, developing outreach initiatives and, promoting the achievements of women in this industry, because it’s true that representation matters.
We, at FTI, stand alongside Women in Data as allies, advocates, and partners, because we know that when we empower women in data, we empower the future. We are dedicated to making meaningful progress within our firm and in the communities where we work.
Within the next five years we expect industries to capitalise on their data to automate processes and make informed decisions. Businesses are going to make difficult decisions on how to use their data, what to invest in, and in which context to use AI. An increase in the use of data for decision making is likely to fuel regulations and debates on bias and ethics. It is widely acknowledged that diverse teams produce better data solutions and are more likely to pick up on bias. This, combined with a potential data skills shortage, makes the work of Women in Data incredibly important.
FTI Consulting is an independent global business advisory firm dedicated to helping organisations manage change, mitigate risk and resolve disputes: financial, legal, operational, political & regulatory, reputational and transactional.
FTI Consulting professionals, located in all major business centres throughout the world, work closely with clients to anticipate, illuminate and overcome complex business challenges and opportunities. With more than 8,000 employees located in 33 countries and territories, our broad and diverse bench of award–winning experts advise their clients when they are facing their most significant opportunities and challenges. At FTI Consulting, we embrace, cultivate and maintain a culture of diversity, inclusion & belonging, which are fundamental components to our core values. FTI Consulting is publicly traded on the New York Stock Exchange and has been named the #1 Professional Services Firm on Forbes List of America’s Best Employers and the best firm to work for by Consulting Magazine. For more information, visit www.fticonsulting.com and connect with us on Instagram and LinkedIn.
FTI Consulting is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, colour, national origin, ancestry, citizenship status, protected veteran status, religion, physical or mental disability, marital status, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, or any other basis protected by law, ordinance, or regulation.
Experience:
For over 15 years, I’ve helped organisations across various industries modernise and transform their technology stack and build powerful analytics and reporting solutions. My passion for data started in the Department of Education, where I used my skills as a statistician to predict student performance based on a multitude of different factors.
Working as a Woman in the data industry:
Being a woman in the data industry can be a mixed bag. On the bright side, it’s a dynamic and intellectually stimulating field. You get to solve complex problems, unearth hidden insights, and have a real impact on businesses and organisations. The skills you develop in data analysis are invaluable across industries, opening doors to many exciting career paths.
However, the data world is undeniably male-dominated. There is a significant gender gap, with women holding a fraction of data science and analytics jobs. This can lead to feelings of isolation or being the lone voice in the room. You may encounter unconscious bias, having to prove your competence to a greater extent than your male colleagues.
The good news is there’s a growing movement for change. Organisations like Women in Data are working towards gender parity and fostering supportive communities. Many companies are actively seeking to diversify their data teams, recognising the value of a wider range of perspectives.
Overall, being a woman in data not only requires resilience and the ability to advocate for yourself, but it’s also an opportunity to be a role model for future generations of female data professionals. You get to use your unique skills and viewpoint to shape the future of this ever-evolving field.
My focus at FTI Consulting is on communications analytics – essentially, how we use data science, natural language processing, LLMs, and statistical modelling techniques to underpin communications strategies for our clients. This could be helping them to improve their reputation with a certain group of stakeholders, writing a corporate narrative that resonates well with investors, or making sense of conversations online in the aftermath of a crisis. The projects I work on are varied and cross-industry.
When I started at FTI Consulting in 2019, I was first in the analytics space in our Strategic Communications segment. This meant that I had responsibility for developing our offer and go-to-market strategy, building a team, and evangelising the benefits of data-driven communications with our colleagues and clients.
Looking at what I studied, you probably would not have expected me to end up in a data-focused role – but so much of my experience studying humanities – History and French – has prepared me. Fundamental to studying history is the ability to synthesise information from different sources, identify your proof points, and put it together to tell a compelling story. And this is what we do every day for clients – just with different forms of data! And though not technical myself, my “people skills” mean that I can effectively manage a team of data scientists – and bridge the gap between technical concepts and our colleagues and clients who operate in the world of communications.
I love working with data as it brings new challenges and learnings every day. Data science in particular is a field that keeps you constantly engaged and on your toes. When I graduated from university, I wasn’t aware of the field, I worked in various areas including insurance software, economic research, competition economics, and then with data consulting, I found my passion. I am incredibly lucky to be in a field that is growing and changing so rapidly.
However, there is a large gender imbalance in the field. In my eyes, given the opportunities and risks that come with this growth, it is especially important to have a diverse workforce, which highlights the importance of the work that organisations like Women in Data do to help organisations implement policies to foster diversity and get women interested in joining the field, even if it is later in their careers.
Why FTI Consulting:
I joined FTI Consulting five years ago, as the job posting offered an interesting and varied set of data science opportunities. And I wasn’t disappointed. The work is fascinating, and we are always exploring new problems, methodologies, and algorithms. I have stayed at the firm this long because the team is supportive, collaborative, and I learn constantly from my colleagues.
Education:
BSc in Mathematics and BA in Economics, Stanford University. MSc in Economics, The London School of Economics and Political Science with Distinction.
I’m intentional in promoting diversity in the workplace and ensuring that colleagues feel respected and seen. The Data & Analytics (“D&A”) team that I champion have become more diverse and the teams that help my clients best understand their data offer varied perspectives to ensure our analysis is comprehensive. In my role, I’m a thoughtful, ambitious and inquisitive professional connector, introducing my contacts and clients to the solutions provided by our D&A team. I do so by investing in these relationships through knowledge-sharing, listening to their challenges, and collaborating with them to achieve their goals. Before FTI Consulting, I earned my law degree and after completing a clerkship I pivoted to a career in business development in litigation services. When I’m not working, I’m cheering for my three kids as they compete on the pitch, trying a new recipe or exercising.
Why FTI Consulting:
FTI Consulting attracts and retains industry experts eager to share their knowledge with the next-gen. I’m fortunate that my colleagues are smart, thoughtful and effective teachers.
What I like most about FTI Consulting:
FTI Consulting is a playground for curious people: curious people from all stages, backgrounds, and experiences in their careers, who want to be part of a team of problem solvers.
Hey there, my name is Gráinne and I have been navigating the twists and turns of the tech and legal industry for more than two decades (which is very hard for me to believe). Throughout this ever-evolving career, I have worked in a consultative capacity with law firms and corporates, enabling them to effectively leverage technology and expertise to deal with data related issues while always keeping an eye to wherever we can achieve greater efficiency.
From my early days as a wide-eyed legal enthusiast to my current role as a tech-savvy solution focused leader it’s been quite the journey. Throughout, I have had the incredible privilege of working alongside some great leaders, mentors and coaches who have not only guided me but also sponsored me to reach new hights in the fast-moving world of tech and law. As I continue this exciting journey, I look forward to pushing boundaries, breaking barriers and making a meaningful impact in the legal-tech landscape. Here is to many more years of growth, learning and transformation in this dynamic and fast-moving world.
My career intertwines seamlessly with the beautiful chaos of my personal life. In addition to leading the technology practice I also juggle the delightful whirlwind of raising two lovely but, undeniably, crazy kids. Balancing the demands of a high-paced career and the joys and challenges of parenthood has been a rewarding journey filled with laughter, love, chaos and a nice balance of good and bad days. From school drops offs, after school activities, homework, meltdowns to bedtime stories, every moment spent with my kids is a reminder of what truly matters and why I do what I do. The key is to strive to find that balance, purpose and sense of fulfilment throughout your work and home – not an easy one!
Why FTI Consulting:
Being a Technology partner at FTI Consulting is not just a job or role for me – it is a passion, calling and a thrilling adventure. Each day brings new challenges, opportunities and chances to make a real difference in the world of technology. At FTI Consulting, I have the privilege of working with a team of brilliant minds, each bringing their unique talents and perspectives to the table.
Collaborating with such a diverse group of individuals fuels my creativity and drives me to push forward and think outside the box. This is a great platform and opportunity for me to inspire and mentor the next generation of tech enthusiasts and leaders. Guiding and supporting the team as they grow both personally and professionally is incredibly rewarding, knowing that I am helping shape the future of our industry and business.
In essence, yes, I am a leader in our practice but, for me, it’s about the people, the innovation, the opportunities and possibilities that are here every day for all of us. It is about making a meaningful impact, driving positive change and shaping the future of our business in ways that resonate far and beyond the four walls of the office.
