The 2022 Best Small Firms to Work For: Deecon Consulting

Client Industries Served: Telecommunications, Utilities, Construction, Infrastructure & Power

Consulting Service Lines: Strategy Consulting, Procurement Consulting, Systems/ IT Transformation, Commercial Consulting and Dispute Resolution Consulting

CMAG: How would you say you've managed to stay among the industry's Best Small Firms to Work For amid these unprecedented times?

At Deecon we look to work in both an agile and flexible way both internally and on client projects. While we are continuously adopting and introducing new technology, our key focus is on 'the team' and their wellbeing. This is driven through our Mentor/Mentee programme, regular social events both face to face and virtually, End of Month company meetings, Away Days, daily team touchpoints and regular improvement feedback sessions. Running a flat structure encourages the team to contribute while providing many opportunities to develop and improve how we work. This results in true ownership and teamwork whilst being an integral part of driving Deecon forward.

CMAG: Were there any specific programs or initiatives (internal or external) that contributed to you being a Best Small Firm to Work For?

Our staff are key to what makes Deecon a success, so our recruitment process is crucial. It is run by the internal team who contribute to each stage of the process and provide continuous feedback on how the process is run and can be improved. Each candidate is evaluated by members of the team and provide insight into how they might best fit our culture and behaviour. Without the right staff we would not be a success.

Our governance and controls for both internal and client projects allow the teams to challenge and improve outputs, whilst also building their skills and knowledge. In addition, we have a structured 'Personal Development Review' process and promotion fast-track programme for all staff, allowing clear sight of progression areas and to celebrate success.

CMAG: What's unique about your firm? What sets it apart?

Openness, transparency and inclusiveness are what makes us different. This creates a tight-knit team who always go the extra mile to support each other. Regular training sessions are delivered by subject matter experts and the team, providing touch points and increased knowledge share. Flexible working (from home, offices or client offices) to suit the needs of each individual drives a culture of trust, responsibility and true ownership.

Although we have a traditional organisational hierarchy in terms of job titles, Deecon adopts a horizontal structure. All members have the flexibility to organise and control their areas. As a result, they have the freedom and independence to carry out their roles and responsibilities.

In addition, we are a sociable and inclusive team with many team events, from virtual games to team building away days. This encourages the team to develop both work and social relationships that will continue throughout their careers.

CMAG: What's the top priority over the next 6 to 12 months?

As the company scales to meet its business opportunities, it is vital that we maintain the appropriate resource capacity while keeping the company values that are the backbone of our success. We are acutely aware of the intensity that being a consultant can bring. Continuous investment and engagement with our staff allow us all to achieve a sustainable work life balance.

CMAG: When you look at the remainder of this year and 2023, what excites you? What opportunities do you see in your future?

Having the opportunity to help clients as they grow and develop in new sectors, then observing the benefits from the work that we have delivered brings great satisfaction. With the growth and development of our individual team members being a key to a successful consultancy, we look forward to seeing the team progress as future leaders through their careers at Deecon and beyond.

We have identified a wealth of opportunities in the near future. There are major infrastructure projects planned across the UK over the next 5 years, including HS2, EV charging, Utilities and the provision of fibre broadband, which Deecon has the knowledge and expertise to support.

CMAG: What impact do you think being a Best Small Firm to Work For has on the firm? Employees? Clients?

Being a 'Best Small Firm to Work For' confirms we are one team with personal and company goals aligned. Recognition of all the hard work that the team have put in over the last 12 months into both Deecon and client work, shows that we are on the right track.

In terms of our employees, this recognition highlights and confirms that Deecon's culture is above and beyond the industry standard. It also shows new recruits that we are the right company to start and progress their careers with.

We have long standing relationships with many of our clients and this will be well received, confirming what they have seen over the last 12 years, a company that puts emphasis on company values, ethics, inclusion and behaviours above all else.

CMAG: Thank you, and congratulations.