Team Profile: Michael Waites, Senior Business Analyst

Name:

Michael Waites

Job Title:

Senior Business Analyst

Service time with Covernet:

I am a comparatively new recruit to Covernet, having started in September 2019, with completion of my first years’ service now rapidly approaching.

Education / Career journey:

Educated at an all-boys school in Middlesex, England many moons ago, I started work in Retail Banking after opting to forego the traditional University route, and instead joined the “University of Life”. Fast forward a few decades, and I had enjoyed a career working in various Business/Systems Analyst roles for some of the top Investment Banks in London, whilst also having relocated abroad for a contract position in the Netherlands for several years, before ultimately returning to London.

How did you become part of Covernet team?

Having relocated to Northern Ireland for family reasons, I was put forward by a local Recruitment Agency for a position at Covernet. Fortunately for me, Covernet were at the time in the process of implementing a new Business Analysis department, and were looking for someone to help start up the new department. The rest, as they say, is (albeit recent) history.     

What does a typical day hold for you?

My role typically involves two streams of work. Firstly, to review existing procedures, and recommend, document and implement new ones, with respect to the start-up of the Business Analysis department and associated Project Planning activities. Secondly, as an actual Business Analyst, to liaise with colleagues and customers alike, compiling relevant Functional Specification and Change documentation to assist the Development and Test teams in completion of their work, in order to implement relevant Client change requests.

What do you enjoy most about the job?

Work wise, I enjoy the responsibility the role provides, as well as the opportunity to help make changes for the better, hopefully making life a bit easier for colleagues and Management team alike. Just as importantly though, I enjoy working in such a friendly, welcoming and co-operative environment where you can still have a bit of fun.

What do you attribute to your career success to date?

Being able to interact and work well with others, enjoying my job, as well as taking pride in one’s work and wanting to do well. Also, being fortunate enough to have worked for some of the best employers/institutions around, that allowed me to grow and work towards my potential.

What is your greatest passion outside of work and family?

Years ago, it would have been football and following my beloved Gunners. More recently though, for last 6-7 years, it would be trying (and failing) to master the art of Golf. A handicap of 16 just seems to never come down…! 

Describe yourself in 3 words.

O.C.D. - Accordingly to my ex and my daughter anyway...

Wannabe Golf Pro!