Client Services Analyst In Wolverhampton, UK

We invite Black professionals in various industries around the world to anonymously share their experiences living and working while Black. Even in the same industry, with the same position, even at the same company, every experience is unique. Be motivated and inspired by real people at various stages of their lives and career.

Client Services Analyst In Wolverhampton, UK

What is your gender?

Male

Where do you live? (Country and City)

United Kingdom, Wolverhampton

What is your job title?

Client Services Analyst

What industry do you work in?

Information services

What would be the first 2 or 3 sentences in a biography about you?

Nigerian individual born and raised in the midlands. Went to a boarding school and studied for a Business degree at university.

Describe the area where you live.

Suburban.

What are your standout experiences, living while Black in your neighbourhood?

Nothing really stood out, a pretty normal experience growing up. The odd stereotype here and there such as ‘Athletic’, hair touching etc.

What situations in your daily life remind you of your skin colour?

I come from a fairly traditional African family so when I go home I’m always reminded of my heritage and culture.

Describe 2 or 3 key events that helped you reach this stage in your career.

My Placement Year.
My role in the Afro-Caribbean society at university.
My participation in career development programmes.

In what ways does being Black affect your job?

I guess in some ways it makes me work harder, but I’m naturally a hard worker anyway so I wouldn’t class it as a negative, more of a motivator.

What are your frequent irritations around work and your career?

For me, I wouldn’t class them as irritations personally. I’m very lucky to have accomplished what I have so far and I award that to grit and merit. My generation faces an extremely competitive jobs market so I guess I’m more grateful than irritated.

What are your key tips to someone Black attempting a similar career?

Don’t be afraid to reach out to people and network with people of all ethnicities as they can open doors that are closed to most others. Make sure to utilise the many Diversity and Inclusion schemes available and don’t give up on a job search. True grit is rewarded.

What are your future goals and ambitions?

To climb the corporate ladder in my organisation and eventually becoming a VP/ department head. Creating a secondary side business that helps the local community and gives back.