A successful work-study program is measured not only by the skills acquired, but also by the professional horizons it opens up. At SQORUS, a work-study program is much more than just an apprenticeship: it’s the cornerstone of a fulfilling career path.
The testimony of Stéphane VILARINHO is a perfect illustration. Two years of work-study, punctuated by stimulating projects, a period of company transformation and constant skills upgrading, have shaped his career path.
From motivated work-study student to permanent consultant, discover how SQORUS transforms the apprenticeship experience into a real career springboard in the world of EPM Council.
Successful EPM work-study experience in a Council firm
When I started my work-study program, I had no idea how much these two years would transform my way of working, my vision of the profession and even my self-confidence.
This journey has taken me from Smarthys Consulting to SQORUS, after the acquisition of Smarthys by SQORUS, offered me a unique environment, both demanding and benevolent.
I discovered a niche business,Enterprise Performance Management (EPM), but above all a framework in which I could develop, learn and plan for the long term.
In a way, this testimonial retraces my path, from my first steps at SQORUS to my current responsibilities in Council/AMOA.
Career development at EPM: from work-study student to EPM consultant
The beginnings: an almost unexpected alternation
Finding a work-study program is no easy task. Between courses, an international year and an often fruitless search, you have to persevere and explore different opportunities.
It was while developing my professional network that I discovered Smartys Consulting. This firm, which specializes in performance management, was a perfect match for my ambitions in finance and management control, even if the consulting profession was still abstract.
Right from my first interviews, the tone was set. It’s a human, demanding environment, but one in which we really trust our alternates/interns. And this was confirmed as soon as I arrived.
All in all, my integration went smoothly: a committed manager, available colleagues and an environment that encouraged me to understand the “why” behind every action. This approach laid the foundations for my understanding of the consulting profession.
TMA: a formative first experience
Like all new Smarthys employees, I joined the TMA (Third-Party Application Maintenance) team. This is a key stage, as it trains me in both the tools and reflexes of a consultant: rigor, speed, customer communication and analytical skills.
I was in charge of recurring requests from several customers. The tools were an integral part of my daily routine, and I learned every day by doing. It was definitely an intense learning phase. At this stage, we all make mistakes, but that’s what allows us to progress.
From the very first weeks, work-study students are involved in several projects. For my part, what I particularly appreciated was that I was never confined to a purely operational or “executing” role. I was certainly a work-study student, but I was never presented or considered as such; I was a consultant in my own right within the company.
My first assignments included:
- Participation in transformation projects: I supported the implementation of tools and processes, helping to prepare workshops, draft deliverables and analyze requirements.
- Methodological support: I’ve often been asked to build support materials, structure feedback or take part in the creation of documents for customers.
This gradual exposure enables us to understand the mechanics of a Council project: customer relations, methodological rigor, time management, and above all the importance of communication.
The merger with SQORUS: a new impetus
In 2023, Smarthys joined SQORUS, its human culture and its expertise in digital and business transformation in HR, Finance & IT. This merger has broadened our horizons: more projects, more tools, more interactions.
In particular, I discovered the Board solution, new AMOA methodologies, and a corporate culture very similar to that of Smarthys: collaborative, benevolent and focused on skills development.
It was against this backdrop that I was offered the chance to join the Council/AMOA team at the end of my studies.
A source of pride and a milestone in my career.
The first step towards a career as a consultant
Going from work-study student to consultant is not a question of title, but of personal development. It’s about learning to take a step back, to get organized, to communicate, to understand business issues as well as technical aspects.
My time at SQORUS has shown me that a work-study program can be a real springboard, provided you’re curious, committed and ready to get out of your comfort zone.
If I had to leave you with just one message, it would be this: never underestimate the potential of your work-study program. With the right environment, the right mentors and the will to progress, you can quickly take your rightful place in a team and build a solid, motivating start to your career.
If I could do it, starting out with no EPM experience, then so can you. Because learning and progression are part of our DNA SQORUS accompanies every talent towards success.
Stéphane VILARINHO
EPM CONSULTANT
My time at SQORUS has shown me that a work-study program can be a real springboard, provided you’re curious, committed and ready to get out of your comfort zone.
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