This week, we are proud to share Ryan’s story.

Ryan Brown joined Sendero in our Houston office in 2022. Prior to that, Ryan studied management and human resource management at Texas A&M University. As a consulting analyst, he has worked in the utilities industry and has experience in project management, systems implementation, and IT infrastructure.

What led you to Sendero?

After graduating from Texas A&M, I would say that I was a bit apprehensive about entering my career and was filled with a lot of self-doubt. I didn’t really know what to expect and I was fearful of landing at a company that wasn’t a fit, where I would be overwhelmed and burnt out. I think that Sendero does a really great job of shepherding young people into the corporate world, allowing them to grow and develop in an environment where they feel comfortable and safe. It’s that culture that initially led me to Sendero and it’s one of the many reasons why I stay.

What stands out to you about Sendero?

What stands out to me most about Sendero is that it’s a place where individuality is celebrated and empowered in the workplace. Sendero is very clear about who we are as a company and what our culture is, and that cohesive culture is comprised of so many unique individuals who all bring something different to the table.

What has been your favorite part about being a consultant?

My favorite hobby is cooking, specifically cooking for other people. When I’m successful in cooking something for someone—I like to think this happens more often than not—they’ll tell me how good it was or have a visible reaction, one that shows that something I made resulted in a positive experience for them. Those who love to cook know that there are few better feelings in the world. To me, consulting is a lot like cooking. When I complete a project for a client, and I see that they are satisfied and thankful for the work, that is my favorite part of being a consultant and makes me want to do it again and again.

What industries have you worked in?

When I first started at Sendero, I became really interested in the utilities industry and was drawn to projects in that space. Since then, I’ve been able to dive deep into the sector and have developed a wealth of knowledge about that industry. Additionally, I’ve been so fortunate to have participated in several projects for local non-profits.

Most successful projects are the result of exceptional teamwork. How has your time at Sendero shaped the way you approach being a team member and leader?

While at Texas A&M, I was very fortunate to hold leadership positions and, when I started at Sendero, I felt very confident in my ability to lead. However, I will admit that I was quickly humbled and had to first learn to be a follower. Consulting is very much a practice of experience and you are put on teams with people who have a wealth of experience. These people poured into me and I learned so much from them. As I’ve grown and developed, I’ve been empowered to take on more responsibilities and leadership roles. My time at Sendero has taught me that to be an effective leader, you first need to listen and follow.

What has your experience been with our company culture?

One of the things I love about Sendero is that, while present because of tenure and experience, the organizational hierarchy isn’t over-emphasized. Project teams are often comprised of associates, analysts, managers, and senior leaders, so “leadership” has never been a group of people that you never see or hear from. Instead, they’re often very hands-on in the work. As a team member, you have the opportunity to form these great relationships with Senderoans at all levels of the company. I think this really builds the culture, where the hierarchy is respected, but there is an empowering sense of connectedness in who we are.

What Sendero resources or programs have had the most impact on your career growth?

Our Learning and Development team has worked hard—as they always do—to put together several self-guided Degreed pathways for Sendero. These are what first got me interested in the utilities industry, a space which I’ve grown and developed so much in. Additionally, I’ve been so fortunate to have a great relationship with my Career Advisor (CA). My CA was actually one of my first project managers, so we were able to cultivate a close relationship that has significantly impacted my career growth at Sendero.

What are you looking forward to in the next year, both professionally and personally?

I’m most looking forward to continuing to deliver impactful results for our clients and continuing to give back to local non-profit organizations in our market areas, all while continuing to grow and develop personally as a consultant. In my personal life, I’m looking forward to several trips that my wife and I have planned this year, and celebrating our first anniversary in June.

If you could give one piece of advice to someone interested in becoming a consultant, what would it be?

Don’t conform to your idea of what you think a consultant is. Consulting is about bringing in a new perspective to solve problems and adding value to our clients. If every consultant was the same, then every solution would be the same. Let your individuality be displayed through your work as a consultant and focus on using your strengths to find success in your career.

Interested in career opportunities at Sendero? Learn more by joining our Talent Community.