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What attracted you to KSA?
I was fortunate to have an internship with KSA as an undergrad, so I had a “behind the scenes” perspective before pursuing a full-time consulting position. Two things were evident about KSA during my internship: the people and the projects. I wanted to find a company that had really bright, energetic, and passionate people. The Health Services Division is fairly small (about 70 people) with low leverage, so I knew I would get the opportunity to work one-on-one with the principals and not be a nameless, faceless member in an army of consultants. I also wanted to work on projects that were of value and actually made a difference for our clients. Even as an intern, I was surprised I was assigned to such important projects. I knew the caliber and quality of work that was expected, so I was confident my future projects would continue to be challenging and exciting.
List some characteristics of KSA leaders that assist you with your career development.
The managers and principals at KSA have helped me with career development by assigning me to projects at different types of medical centers (academic, community, children’s, etc.), diverse areas of the country (rural, urban, east, west), or simply various project types (strategic plans, master plans, functional and space programs, etc.) New consultants need to be proactive and ask to be assigned to projects they know will help develop their skills. KSA is also great at sending its consultants to professional conferences and workshops to help us continuously expand our knowledge. In general, the characteristics of KSA leaders that have assisted me most in career development are those which have pushed me to try things I did not think I could do.
What are some of the more fun and challenging projects you have staffed?
My largest project was a university medical center, where we planned 800,000 square feet of renovation and addition. By the end of the project, I knew every square inch of that campus! The staff was really down to earth and fun to work with throughout the project.
It was a challenging project because a reputable architecture firm had already programmed the same new building, but to a size and cost that was not feasible for the client. Our team had to plan a new program and reconcile it to fit within the client’s original budget. We were able to do so without sacrificing functionality or significantly decreasing the planned capacity.
What surprises have you encountered on your projects?
Every project is unique, so I never really know what to expect! I have learned to alleviate as many surprises as possible by doing my research ahead of time: always know the location of the nearest Starbucks, Kinko’s, and Marriott. Also, always have cab money, always save documents in three places, and never be afraid to ask questions.
How do you maintain collegial relationships with consultants who are not staffed on the same projects as you?
Usually the consultants in our office are assigned to various projects, but when we are together in the office we eat lunch and chat about our crazy travel adventures. We also have fun social events outside the office like baseball games or sailing. I’ll often call or e-mail consultants not based in my office just to check in. The more experienced consultants are great resources and are always willing to answer questions or lead you to another consultant who knows the answer.
What learnings have you taken away from your projects?
It is really important to maintain good relationships – with colleagues and with clients. There are times on the road when I might have crazy meeting schedules, frantic deadlines, and little to no sleep. On those occasions the only way to stay sane is to enjoy the people with whom you work. In other words, when the rental car breaks down, you are late for a meeting, you are not getting cell phone reception, the internet is not working, your flight is cancelled, and you are about to scream, the people at KSA make the difference!
Maintaining good relationships with clients is also critical. Because I am a younger consultant, it often takes me longer to build credibility with my clients. Being personable, honest, and sincere will take you a long way.
What would you like to see change or improve at KSA?
I’d like to see more female principals. KSA has hired a lot of great women over the years and I try to learn as much as I can from them. I would like to see KSA continue to hire and promote women at the manager and principal levels.
What book are you currently reading?
I’m reading Jean Paul Sartre’s “Being and Nothingness.”
Why do you look to BBC news vs. U.S. broadcasts?
BBC news seems to have more comprehensive coverage of world events. It also provides a wider perspective on news occurring within the United States – and at times reports on stories overlooked by the U.S. media.
What are some exciting things you do when you are on the road alone?
One benefit of consulting is that I get to travel all over the United States to places I have never been before – San Diego, Vail, Naples, Phoenix, Washington D.C. There is usually enough flexibility with travel schedules that I have time to see the sights. Even if the schedule is tight, there is always time to find a good restaurant in town. Every consultant I know has fun and crazy adventures while traveling, whether it’s a manic cab ride across the city or a leisurely 10-hour layover in a foreign airport. You just have to take it with a smile and enjoy the ride (or Red Carpet Club).
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