For those in the early stages of their careers, the path forward can feel like a set of expectations. They are often told to pick a lane, climb the ladder, and stick to a predetermined plan. But what if a career wasn’t a straight line? What if it was a journey of exploration, filled with unexpected turns, new interests, and the continuous pursuit of skills that matter to you? This journey is what allows a professional to create a career that is not just successful, but also deeply and personally rewarding.
At KPMG, the belief is that a career is something individuals shape, not something that happens to them. It’s an adventure defined by a growth mindset and a willingness to explore the unknown. The focus is less on a one-size-fits-all and more on building a path that is uniquely personal. KPMG provides the tools, culture, and opportunities to help employees become the architect of their own career.
Embrace the unexpected turn
The most rewarding careers are rarely linear. It’s about staying curious and proactively developing a skill set that not only serves your current role but also opens doors to future possibilities. Just ask Managing Director Chris Anstine. His journey has taken him from global rotations to the forefront of technological innovation, where he is now instrumental in advancing audit practices through Artificial Intelligence. Discover the mindset that powered Chris’ evolution from global traveler to AI pioneer by watching his full story.
Or consider Manager Parth Patel, who turned a budding interest into a new career direction within the firm. By expressing his curiosity, embracing a mindset of continuous learning, and building strong connections, Parth successfully navigated a career change that aligned his work with what truly excites him. Hear directly from Parth on how he turned personal interest into a professional pivot.
Their stories are a powerful reminder that growth often happens when one steps off the beaten path and leans into new challenges—all while staying within one firm.
Turning passions into skills
A meaningful career path is built through exploration. The passions you develop beyond the office often translate into skills that strengthen how you lead, collaborate, and grow. Actively shaping one’s career path means looking for opportunities to apply these unique skills, turning personal interests into professional strengths. When you invest in what excites you, you build momentum for wherever your career adventure takes you next.
Manager Keiara Avant is a perfect example. On the basketball court, she developed discipline, adaptability, and a deep understanding of teamwork. Today, those very skills are central to how she leads her teams and collaborates on complex projects. Her journey shows that the lessons learned from sports, hobbies, and other life experiences aren’t just relevant—they are foundational to professional success and leadership. See how the lessons Keiara learned on the court became her greatest assets in the corporate arena.
Lead from where you are
A key part of shaping your own career adventure involves leading from any position. Leadership isn’t limited to a title or role; it’s a skill you can build and demonstrate every day. It can mean mastering your craft to become a subject matter professional that others seek out, or it can mean guiding and empowering those around you. As professionals grow in their careers, one of the most significant impacts they can make is helping others grow alongside them. At KPMG, leadership isn’t just about managing projects; it’s about fostering potential and building confidence in the next generation of talent.
Senior AssociateKennie May embodies this culture of support and exemplifies leadership through mentorship. He actively dedicates his time to guiding interns and new associates, offering them the real-world insights and helping them build confidence that can shape a future career. Through this form of mentorship, he develops his own expertise and influence, demonstrating that career growth can also be defined by the impact one has on others. Watch Kennie’s journey to see how investing in others is a cycle of support that strengthens the entire organization.
An individual’s career journey is their own to design. It’s a collection of stories, skills, and defining moments that they bring to the table. Whether it’s by exploring a new field, leveraging a personal strength, or mentoring a colleague, every professional has the power to build a career and demonstrate leadership that is unique to them.
What unexpected turn or hidden skill will shape your career journey? Get started on the adventure by visiting kpmguscareers.com or connecting with us on WayUp.
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