The Journey of Working Abroad: Insights from Steven Catudal
Introduction: Embracing International Opportunities
Growing up with a passion for travel, Steven Catudal, an associate at Oliver Wyman, eagerly embraced opportunities that allowed him to work abroad. His journey not only shaped his career in consulting but also provided him with invaluable experiences that transformed his worldview. Through various projects over four years with Oliver Wyman, Steven found himself exploring diverse cultures, particularly in countries such as Brazil, Germany, Canada, and most recently, Saudi Arabia.
The Path to Saudi Arabia
Steven’s keen interest in the Middle East motivated him to network within his firm and seek project opportunities in the region. After a few months of connection-building, he landed a project in Saudi Arabia, quickly transitioning from New York to Riyadh. The logistical aspects of the move were surprisingly smooth—his employer facilitated visa arrangements, and housing options were readily available through the firm’s partnerships.
A Taste of Diverse Work Culture
One of the most profound differences Steven experienced in Saudi Arabia was the diversity of his teams. Unlike his experience in New York, Steven worked alongside managers and consultants from various countries, including India, Singapore, and Russia. He noted, “The smartest talent from all around the world is coming to one place.” In contrast to the more expat-driven environment of the Dubai office, the Riyadh office emphasized local staffing when possible, which added a unique dynamic to team projects.
Steven discovered that working on projects in Saudi Arabia had an overarching sense of purpose. It felt more than just a job focused solely on profit; the goal was to contribute to the country’s progression—building frameworks for the future. There was a strong collective buy-in from team members, many of whom returned after studying abroad to give back to their homeland.
The Intensity of Consulting Projects
As with many consulting roles, the intensity of the work in Saudi Arabia matched the demanding pace of New York. Tight deadlines and weekend work became a standard but rewarding aspect of the experience. Despite the grind, the collaborative spirit among team members made it a vibrant and fulfilling environment. Steven pointed out that while many projects in the region could be remote, he was predominantly office-based, fostering interpersonal connections and a deeper understanding of the local work culture.
Navigating the logistics of Riyadh, a sprawling city with summer temperatures that can soar to 110 degrees, required some adaptability. Steven found himself relying on cabs to avoid the heat, especially before crucial client meetings.
Lifestyle and Leisure: Exploring the Region
Outside of work, Steven relished the ease of traveling throughout the region, thanks to affordable flights. Weekends became opportunities for adventure, with trips to Oman, Morocco, and Georgia among his many explorations. He thrived in the vibrant evening culture of Riyadh, noting that the city remained bustling even after dark, with families enjoying the outdoor atmosphere.
The friendliness of the local populace left a lasting impression on Steven. Despite facing language barriers, he found the Saudis to be incredibly hospitable. Colleagues often invited him to their homes for meals or to join in recreational activities like soccer. This warmth provided him a sense of community, even while living far from home.
Balancing Work and Personal Life
However, the experience of living abroad also had its challenges. Staying connected with friends and family back home proved difficult, particularly because of the time differences. Long-term consulting projects could stretch from a couple of months to a year, creating a feeling of being out of sync with personal life milestones, such as family celebrations or occasions.
Career Growth: Broadened Perspectives
Reflecting on his time abroad, Steven recognized that working in such a diverse environment significantly impacted his professional development. He observed a notable difference in communication styles; in Saudi Arabia, there was a more direct approach to achieving consensus, which contrasted with the more assumed agreement often found in his New York teams. This experience showcased the importance of understanding various cultural perspectives and how they can affect team dynamics and problem-solving approaches.
The exposure to different working styles has equipped Steven with a broader toolkit for tackling challenges. The insight that “there are many ways to solve a problem” is a lesson he carries forward into all his professional endeavors.
Final Thoughts
Ultimately, Steven Catudal’s journey illustrates the rich tapestry of experiences that come from working abroad. With a unique combination of professional growth, cultural immersion, and personal connections, his story serves as a powerful reminder of the value of stepping outside one’s comfort zone in pursuit of both career advancement and personal enrichment.
