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What is the role of a Business Manager at MI-GSO | PCUBED?
- 11 April 2022
- Corporate
We spoke to James Coughlan to find out more about his role and why he enjoys working as a Business Manager.
The role of a Business Manager in a project management company
Hello James! What is your background and your role in M|P today?
James: Before joining M|P I spent almost 10 years working for a large independent recruitment business in their Engineering Division, first in Business Development and Account Management roles then finally as Division Manager.
I joined M|P as a Business Manager in 2019 with a focus on the UK Aerospace & Defence sector.
My responsibilities include managing some of the largest accounts in the Manufacturing industry, as well as managing our M|P consultants across various teams and geographies. Most importantly, I am responsible for driving business growth while ensuring the highest level of value possible is delivered to our clients.
What does it mean to be a Business Manager for you?
James: As a Business Manager you are empowered to build your own business unit, winning work with new and existing clients, helping to deliver their programs, hiring talented colleagues, and supporting their careers and growth!
M|P: What are the soft skills required to become a Business Manager? Do you have any advice?
James: An entrepreneurial spirit and positive attitude!
The Business Manager role can be demanding so you need to be able to juggle multiple tasks at the same time.
M|P: What motivates you every morning?
James: Two things… Firstly, I appreciate getting positive feedback from our clients. It is really rewarding to hear about the work our Consultants have helped deliver and that our support is recognised.
Secondly, I am curious about how things are made! I really enjoy speaking with manufacturing clients about their business, processes, programs, challenges and then discussing how M|P can help.
What projects are you working on at the moment?
James: One of our main clients operating in the aeronautics sector is building momentum. Indeed, we are supporting some interesting efficiency and sustainability programs; sustainable aviation fuel and ultra long range capabilities.
Working at MI-GSO | PCUBED
What do you like the most about working at M|P?
James: The M|P culture is supportive, collaborative, and progressive. Everyone is encouraged to “own” their career journey. There are lots of opportunities for development, training, and progression.
This of course extends beyond the UK as well; it is great to see our UK teams reach out and interact with our international peers to get support and advice with clients from their regions.
After 3 years at M|P, do you have any memories in particular that you would like to share?
James: In September 2021, we held our first M|P in-person event after 18 months of working remotely.
It was great to see lots of new faces who had joined us during the pandemic, to meet new colleagues in person, and to share our plans for growing the Manufacturing team!
Thank you James for sharing with us your experience!
About MI-GSO | PCUBED
MI-GSO | PCUBED is a worldwide consulting firm dedicated to project management and PMO in Aeronautics, Defense, Automotive, Rail, Financial Services, Energy, and Government. With over 2,200 employees, MI-GSO | PCUBED is part of the ALTEN Group – a 42,000-people strong publicly listed leader in Engineering and IT Services.