This month we are featuring Mike Parker, Associate in the Saba practice at Educe.
What do you do in your day-to-day role?
Whilst my preferred role is that of Engagement Management, I can also double up as a Technical Consultant. I work on growing Educe’s Saba practice in EMEA, finding new sales opportunities for Educe, and collaborating with the Cornerstone team in EMEA.
What skills does your current job require? How have you mastered those skills?
My main projects consist of migrating large organizations to new instances of Saba Cloud. My role as a Technical Consultant requires exceptional memory since I must troubleshoot issues in an “old style” way. The key to work though these issues is to set up my own virtual demo platform to test out new functionality.
What advice would you give to others working in Educe Group about how to succeed in the organization?
Keep current on features, functions, and technology! Software is changing all the time, and it’s not enough to just attend product release webinars and read release documentation – you need to get immersed in projects to test out those features. If your current project is not stretching your skillset, then dip into the Saba Community to see what others are doing and help others, if possible.
What has been one of your most memorable moments at Educe?
Being remote in the UK, I love getting to meet the rest of the Educe team during our annual firm meetings. My favorite firm meetings include Miami Beach (an amazing location and just a wonderful place to be just before Christmas), and Vail for its skiing, food and camaraderie.
How do you successfully build relationships with clients?
I build relationships with clients by being open, honest, diligent in following up actions, and by adding a touch of UK humour. When there is a problem, it is best to share your thoughts and discuss with the customer as soon as is appropriate to do so – never hide issues or mistakes. On the flip side, it is also important to make sure your facts are correct before you (mis)communicate to the client, so make sure you get as much information as you can before you provide updates to the customer. They will trust you more if they know you’ve done your homework.
What do you feel sets us apart from other consulting firms?
The breadth and depth of expertise across Educe is probably unrivalled in any other learning-oriented consultancy, and the extent of collaboration is exemplary. Everyone at Educe is willing to offer support and help their colleagues succeed.
What are your hobbies/interests outside of work?
1.) Cycling
When it’s cold outside, I complete my workouts on Zwift, competing against others in group rides and races. I managed to top 500 miles in January this year, achieving over 300 PRs. I hope to get outside again as soon as Spring arrives in the UK. I love the country air as I cycle through the rural English lanes – the smell of pine trees, wood/coal fires, and especially the aromas from the kitchens from traditional English pubs.
2.) Football
I love supporting my team Blackpool F.C. (in league 1 in England). I can combine watching a game whilst totting up miles on Zwift with my new gym setup in my garden.
3.) Genealogy
I have completed over 20 years of research and added over 30,000 people in my tree, using DNA to connect with various people across the world. It’s a never-ending hobby, and I’m always digging up new material. Recently, I discovered details of an inquest into my 3rd great grandfather who was killed ‘accidentally’ by a horse and cart in Wales.
