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We recently enhanced our existing Credit Risk & Analytics offering with the promotion of Tom Cook, our first Consultant who is dedicated specifically to the area of Analytics.
In light of his renewed focus, we decided to catch up with Tom on his new role, the market at the moment and any wisdom he can share for hiring managers and those looking for a new role right now.
Tell us about your role and specialism at MERJE
I focus on Data and Analytics hires, usually within Financial Services, Banking and Insurance. Whether it’s Management Information, Business Intelligence, Data Science or Data Analysis, I always strive to be up to date with the latest market developments and trends in order to stay ahead of the talent curve.
What's your experience in this area?
I started my recruitment career in the Tech sphere before moving on to the Credit Risk & Analytics desk at MERJE. My foundation in technology, such as DevOps and infrastructure, mixed with the analytical and technical skill sets of the Credit Risk world have put me in a very good position to know and understand the type of hires businesses need to make and where to find the best talent.
What trends have you noticed in the Analytics recruitment market recently?
As businesses are increasingly seeing the benefits of using data to provide insights into performance and profitability, Data Science teams are being built out in their masses. In the highly competitive industries that we’re working in, such as banking and fintech, getting these teams right can be the winning ingredient for success.
What will be your main focus moving forwards?
I’ll continue to focus on my niche, further building my understanding of the many and continuously evolving skills required in the analytics world. It’s also important to me, as well as being part of MERJE’s core ethos, to establish solid, trusting client relationships so we can truly add value with our hiring solutions.
What advice would you give to employers who are recruiting in the current market?
Be clear in what you’re looking for and be prepared to be flexible and move quickly. The power has shifted completely into candidates’ hands as they have an abundance of career opportunities available. Having multiple offers of employment on the table is the norm right now.
Additionally, with the rise of remote working, you’re no longer just competing with your local market but on a national level! If you’re able to have an agile recruitment process and work in collaboration with the candidate and your recruitment partners to make this happen, you’ll put yourself in the best possible position to attract the most suitable talent for your business.
What about candidates seeking new roles at the moment?
Don’t take on too much! The best outcome is always to have multiple offers to choose from, but taking on too much will result in missed opportunities and interview burnout. Work closely with a specialist recruiter that you can trust to fine-tune your search so that you’re only saying yes to the interviews and opportunities that can really enhance your career.
What are the types of Analytics roles currently available?
I have some really exciting opportunities across financial services, from mid-senior MI Analyst and BI Analyst roles at around £40/50k to an influential Head of Data Science vacancy offering a salary of £110,000.
There are some real career-progressing positions in data science, insight, performance, pricing, management information, business intelligence, and more across retail banking, fintech, insurance, consumer credit, etc.
See all our Credit Risk & Analytics vacancies here.
How has your MERJE experience been so far and what are your thoughts about your time with the business?
The autonomy and trust you have from day one is incredible. You feel embedded in the team and culture from the moment you get your feet under your desk and there are so many great people to learn from.
What do you like best about working at MERJE?
You’re working in an unbelievably high performing environment, but without the high pressure that comes with more ‘traditional’ recruitment practices. You’re trusted to do what works best for you and the results speak for themselves, with company targets and records being consistently smashed.
Quick Fire
Best piece of advice you've ever been given?
Become comfortable with being uncomfortable.
Favourite MERJE moment so far?
Either being promoted to Consultant (of course) or being introduced to the incredible world of spa days!
Describe the MERJE culture in three words
Autonomous, flexible, fun.
Favourite song?
The answer to this will change every single day but I would say that today it’s Jimi Hendrix’s Castles Made of Sand.
If you’re looking for your next career step or hiring within the Analytics space, or maybe you just need some recruitment strategy advice, get in touch with Tom to see how he can help: tcook@merje.com
