Erin McClean
Associate at PwC
I would tell someone who wanted to do this job that you need to love learning and studying and that goes for any type of law or tech-based career. Take subjects that involve a lot of analysis and writing and develop those skills and be willing to start at the bottom. When you work hard and you're willing to go the extra mile, you create a reputation of excellence for yourself. Within the corporate world, a reputation plus the subject matter knowledge can take you anywhere!
About Erin...
Who am I?
"I work well with people and I integrate into teams quickly. I do legally-based work so my Quality Controller personality type helps me view clients as fairly as possible. This builds on my Coordinator personality, particularly the attention to detail and ability to communicate well."
What do I do?
"I work at PwC in their Compliance department, where I analyse data protection and privacy law and how our clients apply these laws to their day to day business. This means that I can do lots of different tasks from seeing what software is installed on client laptops to drafting legal opinions on contracts in the Middle East. It's a varied job which requires a wide skill range. My favourite part is that there are studying opportunities, travel and a real sense of community within our teams. The business model of PwC basically guarantees a promotion or salary increase once a year after you are made permanent."
How did I get here?
"My teacher and my team lead have inspired me."
The life I live
"I read and I go to markets. I spend time with my sister and I help her with her university essays. I volunteer extensively."
My typical day
"On a typical day, I will be dealing with client calls, reading contracts, researching products online and keeping up with the latest technology worldwide. I also study at work when our international clients are not available due to time zone differences."
My qualifications
"Secondary education (GCSE/O-Levels)Post secondary education (College, A-levels, NVQ3 or equivalent) A Level Maths (B) English (A) Physics (C) Biology (A) Afrikaans (B) and History (A) Undergraduate degree (BSc, BA, etc.) Bachelor of Commerce (2:1) LLB (2:1). Prince2 Foundation. "