Unlocking New Opportunities through Adaptability: Thomas Darcy’s Story

Each month in 2023, we’re focusing on one of the 10 essentials we all need for success in these fast-changing times. This month, we’re highlighting Adaptability, which is about responding in positive and resilient ways as well as changing how you show up based on the specific needs of others and situations.

One way to hone your adaptability is by being open to new opportunities and challenges.

We talked with London-based Thomas Darcy, who recently transitioned from Market Solutions to lead our Global PA Consulting Collaboration & Growth, about how saying, “Yes,” to new challenges created a unique career path.

What year did you join Jacobs?

I started in 2004 as an environmental assistant supporting our Kent County Council client between my first and second year of university. I spent the summer doing site surveys, proposal plans, organizing public exhibitions and more – and was instantly hooked on the variety offered here. I continued to work part time while I finished university, went on to complete the Jacobs Graduate Development Program, and never looked back from there.

How did you get to where you are?

By saying, “Yes,” and embracing all that a career at Jacobs can offer. I’ve had incredible mentors and managers to help shape my career and navigate two important development shifts: 1) going from design to sales and applying my technical background to foster and grow client relationships; and 2) from focused client growth to company-wide market growth by driving our strategy forward in my Market Solutions role.

One of my mentors, Kate Kenny, has always encouraged me to see my design background and creativity as a strength that I can adapt, and also helps me bring a unique perspective to solve our business challenges. Our experiences are a superpower many of us can – and should – bring to the table.

What do you most look forward to your new role as Global PA Consulting Collaboration & Growth Lead?

I love taking on new challenges and getting out of my comfort zone. The exciting part now is establishing new partnerships between teams that historically haven’t worked together, and creating new, diversified solutions we’ve never provided before. Through our strategic partnership with PA Consulting, we can maximize our complementary strengths to provide integrated solutions that deliver on our mission to create a more connected, sustainable world.

What tips do you have for others?

• Break out of the “now” mindset. Document your aspirational interests and a career plan of where you want to go.
• Be open to roles and opportunities you never imagined yourself. 
• Don’t shy away from sales. You can learn invaluable lessons when you’re on the front line selling our business.
• Pay it forward. Give back and invest people across the business – especially those you don’t know.