2023 Global Leaders in Consulting: John Carey

John Carey is a highly experienced Managing Director responsible for leading AArete's Technology Solutions group, advising clients on technology strategy, development and implementation with a focus on profitability improvement, cost reduction and increased operational efficiencies.

With experience working cross-sector as a CIO / CTO for high profile organizations such as HSBC, Lloyds Banking Group, Harrods and Barclays, he gained a track record of creating key change capabilities for complex business demands through technology solution delivery. Prior to joining AArete, he founded technology consultancies and spent 10+ years directing his company's technical management and product development strategies.

John is a graduate of Sheffield Hallam University, where he completed Master programs in Enterprise Systems Management and IT Management and is a member of the IET and IEEE.

What do you consider your greatest personal or professional achievement?

My greatest personal achievement would certainly be my 3 children – I am beyond proud of their endeavors and awed each day at their perseverance and determination. Professionally speaking, I would attest my greatest achievement to establishing and maintaining great relationships with both my clients and team members. Sustaining these relationships is what helps me understand that my genuine intent to serve clients optimally — caring about them as people alongside delivering utmost professional excellence — is well-received and valued.

What advice would you give a professional just beginning a career in consulting?

For those who are just beginning their career in consulting, remember these 3 points: be brave, be curious, and do not be afraid to make mistakes. Be brave in networking and understanding how consulting works – this can lead to unimaginable opportunities in learning about the industries and clients you serve. Stay curious, as it will not only make you a better consultant, but also provide an infinite palate to explore beyond consulting. Finally, realize that making mistakes comes with the job – it is the avenue to learning and growing. When mistakes happen, find the root cause of the issue and solve it; avoid dwelling on it for too long.

What have you loved most about your consulting career?

People and lifelong learning. Consulting is very people-oriented, so that has always been a great driver in creating and maintaining my relationships. Additionally, the variety of cases, clients, industries, and topics keeps me on edge. Specifically, the technical and business challenges that have made the work constantly evolve, which fuels my curiosity.

What's the best advice—personal or professional—you've ever received?

Slow down and get to the point. When I am exploring a particularly fascinating topic, my ambition tends to get in the way, so I have to remind myself to speak more clearly, but more importantly, listen more and talk less.

What does being honored as a Global Leader mean to you?

The initial reaction I had was disbelief – I'm incredibly humbled to be honored as a Global Leader. When reflecting on the meaning of this award, it is a reminder that my clients and co-workers have provided me the opportunity to learn and grow to the level I am at now. I'm immensely grateful to be receiving this award and serving as a peer among all the other honorees. While this is a meaningful career milestone, I am excited for what is still to come.