In our new series, we talk to our experts about how to navigate what’s next in their industries or fields.
Michael Dabrush is a Manager in the Boston Operating Group with expertise in the Financial Services IV, doing process assessments, business analysis, project management, and RPA implementations, among others. He has been with Centric for three years, consulting for 11 years, and working in Financial Services for over 25 years. When Michael is not delivering for our Boston team, he is a college-level softball umpire and a high school basketball referee.
What’s your story?
After a few years out of college trying to find myself, I took a temp role on a project in a financial services wealth management firm. I did 18 months as a temp (even got promoted) and then joined the firm full time. When the Great Recession hit, I was laid off and began consulting. Through multiple acquisitions, I landed at Centric. Three years later, I have expanded my skill set and knowledge base and am delivering for clients at a totally new level, contributing to practice management in Boston and enjoying the culture of “in balance” to maintain my family life and my outside interests.
What’s the best feedback you’ve ever received?
There is a need to find the right balance between being personable and professional in the work environment, with colleagues and especially with clients. Know your audience.
Why did you decide to become part of your field?
It has been more of a decision to stay. I initially took a temp job in financial services and stayed, then became a consultant after a layoff and stayed. At each of the junctures, I decided to learn, grow and contribute at the highest level I could.
How are you guiding clients right now?
My client project started with a simple mission (for me): Document requirements for an RPA implementation. I guide the client team in thinking through the best tools for the business problem as well as how to use collaboration tools while we are all fully remote.
What, in your opinion, do companies need the most help with right now?
Decisions on the future of the workplace. How and when to return to the office and what the proper balance is between the need to be in an office vs. working anywhere. How to accommodate the best resources when some want to be in the office, and some want to be remote.
What do you think they should be thinking about next?
Technology and real estate requirements meeting the future of the workplace requirements.
What are you looking forward to in your industry?
Continued learning and applying my toolkit to help financial services clients keep up with ever-changing demands and regulations.
What do you do when you’re not guiding clients?
My main outside activity is softball. I am president of the local umpire board under the banner of USA Softball – the national governing body. I lead the organization administratively, provide umpire training and work games from 10u through NCAA Division 2.
