Are you looking for an opportunity to make data matter? Perhaps you studied a data-related field and wonder what it’s like to continue down that path? Or maybe you are already working, but would like to make the transition to data! 

Making data matter is what we do here at Keyrus. Empowering our clients with the data they have and enabling them to be at their best. As a Keyrusian, you can expect to work with the newest technology, and help the client make data-driven decisions. 

As someone who is passionate about data and having studied in that field, there is no better place to kickstart your career in the world of data consulting. You join a group with diverse backgrounds (Psychology, a Phd. Astrophysics, or even a Phd. Quantum Mechanics), who share the same passion as you. 

With a short pitch out of the way, allow me to share how I ended up at Keyrus in the first place, and what it is like to work here. 

How Did I Get Here? 

With a background in Data Analytics, I joined Keyrus in 2022, driven by a passion for using data to create impactful solutions. My journey started with a fascination for data, which led me to seek out opportunities that would allow me to grow and make a real difference. 

My first encounter with Keyrus was at the job fair at my university. Imagine a big job fair with hundreds of companies, how does one attract the attention of ambitious students. Some cool merch, and big smiles of course, a two out of two for Keyrus! I met with two energetic Keyrusians, who were eager to tell me more about what they do. One of the Keyrusians was a consultant who worked on a data science project in the telecom sector, which I found very intriguing. This encounter started my application process with Keyrus. 

What started afterwards as a short phone call with a Keyrusian who possesses a particularly soothing voice (thanks James), I was smoothly going through the interview process. With not more than a few days between each step, I was more and more convinced as the process went on. 

Before I knew it, I had signed my contract before graduating! In retrospect, a great decision was made. 

What Do I Do?

I quickly joined the ranks of the Big Data & Analytics team, excited to work on my first project.  My first week was packed with trainings from senior and expert consultants. This was a great opportunity to polish my skills before being assigned to a client. The training included classes on best interview techniques, and making the most out of LinkedIn. 

Near the end of my first month, and two interviews later, I received the green light and started at my first client the following month. 

My first role at Keyrus was as a Data Scientist for a leading client in the telecom sector. I wasn’t sure what to expect since this was my first real job experience, but my background in Data Science matched perfectly with the skills required. With a knowledge of Python and SQL I felt right at home. At this client, I focused on using machine learning to develop predictive analytics models, helping them make informed, data-driven decisions. Truly making data matter! 

After my telecom experience, I transitioned to the financial services sector as a Data Engineer on Azure. This role allowed me to learn a different aspect of data and gave me the opportunity to learn new tools. While there was some learning needed to integrate, as I was unfamiliar with the Azure cloud stack, a knowledge of Pyspark and SQL allowed me to catch up quickly. In this role, I was responsible for the analytics data platform in Belgium, driving incremental efficiency gains throughout the organisation. I delivered several projects involving cloud integration, ensuring a smooth transition to advanced, secure data environments. 

Aside from my main projects with clients, I also had the chance to contribute to the Keyrus Academy. Through Keyrus Academy, we develop and teach courses on all data-related topics. I was asked to develop a Python Data Science course and have also taught multiple days of Spark courses to a client in the banking sector. 

Motivated to Go Beyond

At Keyrus, there is more to do than just our project work at our clients. Whether it’s social events or getting certified in a relevant field, we are encouraged to engage with our colleagues and to learn continuously. 

It’s always possible to organise and participate in various social events. Many of these events are organised by fellow consultants, help build strong social bonds, and create a supportive community. As an example, is our initiative to encourage exercise, the yearly Keyrus sports competition. This year I helped setting up an easy way for them to share the Strava data using an API. 

We’re always working with the latest technologies, which means there is always something to learn. Keyrus encourages continuous learning to its consultants through the traditional classroom experience, but also the possibility to achieve certifications that are useful for consultants in their respective fields. I have taken multiple classroom courses that expanded my skillset and kept me updated with the latest industry trends and technologies. Additionally, I earned certifications as an Azure Data Engineer, Scrum Product Owner, and Scrum Master through Keyrus. 

Work hard and...

While everything I said in the previous paragraph sounds like a lot of work, having to exercise and study for certificates? The expression of work hard... play hard applies. Which leads me to our KBES or end-of-year-dinner.  

With these events mentioned, aside from the smaller social events hosted by consultants, I can’t leave out the big events organised by our very own fun team. An opportunity for learning, activities, food, and partying? This all happens during the yearly KBES (Keyrus Belgium Employee Survey). It’s a time when we come together, learn from guest speakers, and celebrate our successes. This event ends with a party, with a hotel room included, so you can play hard with no limits! However, you probably shouldn’t push it too far as Koen, our managing director, will also be partying. 

At the end of the year we also have our end-of-year dinner (and party). It’s a fun evening filled with games, speeches, good food, and Christmas presents! Usually there is some entertainment involved as well, as this year we could enjoy the finals of Keyrus Universalis. This was an event hosted by Lisanza, where participants were given short tasks to perform as quickly as they could. A fun compilation of the results was shown, followed by the final rounds with the top three participants. I can’t wait to see what will be organised for next year! 

What's Next?

Well, that concludes my story at Keyrus. I hope I’ve given you a good sense of what it’s like to be a data consultant here. It’s a place where you can accelerate your career in data, with opportunities in different domains. Maybe this has sparked your interest in a career in data consulting. 

If this sounds like something you’re interested in, I’d love to hear from you! We’re always looking for passionate individuals to join our team and make a difference. Thank you for taking the time to read my story. I look forward to connecting with anyone interested in learning more about our journey at Keyrus. 

Leon Cheung