FSP Academy is launching a brand-new series highlighting the journeys of our academy graduates from their first days to their growth within and beyond. This week, Alishba, Brand and Comms Apprentice, interviewed BI Engineer, Lara Walker to share her journey from being in the FSP Academy to then leading it. Curious to how? Check out the link below!

• Alishba – ‘What is your role at FSP and have you been in this role since you started in the FSP Academy?’

Lara – ‘I’m currently a BI Engineer Team Lead within the Data team. I originally joined FSP Academy as a Graduate Technical Consultant, then transitioned to a Graduate Data Consultant, and eventually moved down the BI Engineer path.’

• Alishba – ‘What made you choose FSP for your graduate role?’

Lara – ‘When I was job hunting post-COVID, FSP really stood out. Everything I saw about them looked great, and I just thought, why not? I knew I wanted to go into a consultancy and FSP offered something different – a tech consultancy that didn’t feel intimidating or rigid. 

What really sealed the deal for me was the assessment day. The energy was great, everyone seemed to genuinely like each other, and it just felt like a company I wanted to be a part of. It was definitely the really strong recruitment process that made me confident in my decision.’

• Alishba – ‘Lara, you actually led the FSP Academy, can you share your journey from joining the academy to taking on a leadership role?’

Lara – ‘I was part of the Academy for around a year and a half before moving into the Data and AI team. Shortly after, I was asked if I wanted to lead the Academy, and I jumped at the chance. I’d really enjoyed my time there, so being able to give back and help shape someone else’s journey felt meaningful. At the same time, the company and the Academy were growing, so it just felt like a natural, exciting next step.’

• Alishba – ‘Whilst you were in the Academy, what kind of support and guidance did you receive and how did this contribute to where you’re at now in your role?’

Lara – ‘I had amazing support and my line manager was a brilliant role model. We were also paired with mentors during our time in the Academy and encouraged to build relationships with senior colleagues we admired. 

The culture at FSP is open and welcoming – I have never felt like I couldn’t ask a question or reach out. That openness has made a huge difference!’

• Alishba – ‘How has the Academy contributed to your overall career growth and success?’

Lara – ‘The Academy played a big role in my development. Since I was in client services at the time (now evolved to become The Academy), I got involved in a wide range of tasks like testing, delivery management, even non-tech related work. 

At the time, it felt quite random, but looking back, it gave me a broader understanding of how different functions work across the organisation and helped me discover what I enjoyed. That exploration helped me make a more informed decision when I transitioned into Data.’

• Alishba – ‘Can you tell us about a key highlight from your time at FSP so far?’

Lara – ‘It’s hard to pick just one – I’ve been really lucky to be given so many opportunities. I’ve put myself out there and people have responded positively, which I’m grateful for. 

• I’ve won a couple of awards, including Rising Star and Ultimate Achiever, which meant a lot coming from my peers. 

• I’ve had some great speaking opportunities – internally at Unity, and externally like speaking on an International Women’s Day panel. 

• I’ve also been part of exciting initiatives like the videocast series we’re doing now – look out for this! 

One of my biggest highlights though, is leading a team. I’ve been at FSP just under five years, and seeing the team grow and evolve has been incredibly rewarding.’

• Alishba – ‘What advice would you give to both current and new Academy members for maximising their experience?’

Lara – ‘Take full advantage of your network, not just your peers, but colleagues across the business. Introduce yourself, ask questions, and seek out different perspectives. 

Don’t be afraid to try new things either. Just because you started on one path doesn’t mean you’re stuck there. Explore different areas, pick up new skills, and say yes to opportunities – whether it’s a side project, a different type of work, or even speaking on a panel. 

Push yourself and don’t box yourself in just because you’re a graduate or an apprentice. If you’re passionate or have a talent for something, lean into it. The Academy has so many tools to support your development – make the most of them.’