Ben Keogh
I am a Service Delivery Consultant, based in London. My role entails a range of responsibilities, including (but not limited to) first-line support of our products, (“pseudo”) understanding of code, data analysis etc., as well as project management and the delivery and implementation of our software to client environments. Essentially, I am responsible for troubleshooting and resolving issues encountered by our clients and working with both the client and internal departments to ensure they’re pushed through to resolution. It is a fulfilling role as no day tends to be the same and it allows me to gain broader knowledge of our products and the industry in which we operate.
How long have you been at FinoComp, and what made you want to join?
I have recently passed my third year here at FinoComp. Having heard about FinoComp, I knew immediately that I wanted to be a part of the business. They were (and still are) an innovative business with a great ethos and direction, making noise and movement in the industry. I also liked the fact that it was smaller company which enabled me to develop strong relationships with the people around me and get to grips with the inner workings of the business which is perhaps less easy to achieve when part of a bigger company.
How has lockdown been for you? How has it impacted your day-to-day work and interaction with you FinoComp colleagues both in the UK and Australia?
I think the lockdowns have been challenging for everyone, but I count myself one of the lucky ones. I have a job, and one that I enjoy. I worked from home for the most part prior to the pandemic, so I’m relatively used to it. Personally I find working from home to be more efficient – I can start earlier and finish later if needed; there are less distractions; and you can avoid the “space invaders” on the crowded commutes. However, for me, there is a fine line between “working from home” and “living at work” so you need to ensure you draw a line and separate the two, pack up your makeshift office at the end of the day, and get out of the house. Walking and cycling have played a big part in maintaining my sanity during this time!
As weird as it might sound, there is a global commonality that has come from the pandemic and people tend to check in more than before. We are all in similar boats right now and as a result, I think it has actually enhanced some of my work relationships, especially with my antipodean colleagues.
As we emerge from Lockdown is there anything about the changes that have been implemented that you would like to see remain? What are you glad to see go?
There is a general consensus that working from home has been a positive shift for a lot of people. Perhaps selfishly I would like to see this stay, although perhaps not full time as it can be good to have some face-to-face interaction with your colleagues and clients every once in a while!
I will be glad to see the back of travel restrictions and social distancing. A lot of my friends and family are outside of London. As much as I love being in London, it will be good to get out and visit people that I haven’t seen for a long time.
What are you most excited to do once Lockdown is lifted?
I am looking forward to seeing and hugging my family and friends. I can’t wait to go on holiday and maybe most importantly, have a beer inside a pub!
