Warren Kohm
, Senior AssociateWhy did you choose Booz Allen?
There were several reasons, but mainly I chose Booz Allen because of its reputation. I had worked for two other companies, and the friends who left always seemed to be coming here. It was considered to be number one, the best consulting firm with the best reputation.
Why have you chosen to stay at Booz Allen?
I enjoy my job because of the people I work with and because the overall mission of the internal infrastructure team is so compelling. I get to see how my team’s work affects some of the biggest decisions that are made in the firm, and that’s very rewarding.
What type of work do you do at Booz Allen?
I’m a Strategic Business Services manager, responsible for financial reporting and analysis and financial process improvements. My work involves lots of financial analysis, plenty of business partnering with clients, and quick thinking on my feet. One of the things I do is create the financial books that go to the Officers, giving them a snapshot of where the firm’s projects are going in financial terms and recommending improvements.
What excites you about your work?
What excites me is figuring out the tough challenges. I like working with smart people—and there are plenty here at the firm—to come up with solutions that make the jobs of Booz Allen people easier. And I’m usually involved in three or four special projects outside my normal job responsibilities. For example, right now I’m enhancing a risk reporting process for a client-facing team. Projects like this are fun for me because they take me outside my typical swim lane—they’re challenging and different.
Do you have a mentor at Booz Allen?
I have three mentors who are internal to Booz Allen. I try out ideas with them, and they help me get a feel for the landscape of the firm and how things work outside my area. I tell people to take advantage of the mentoring opportunities the firm offers. It’s a tremendous asset at your disposal, and you may be able to teach your mentor some things, because a good relationship can work both ways.
What differentiates Booz Allen from other companies that you could work for? What makes Booz Allen special?
If you want more than just a paycheck, Booz Allen is a fantastic place to work. It offers so much. I earned my M.B.A. through a Booz Allen program, and as Booz Allen staff members, we’re always treated with respect—we’re given an equal shot. The highest executives in the firm will talk to you. Here in this region there are thousands of Booz Allen people you can draw on for their perspectives. And even the campus is really nice. Something I’ve noticed is that people who leave Booz Allen tend to come back about a year later.
How has Booz Allen helped you be ready for what’s next in your career?
Booz Allen has done a very good job of preparing me to address any challenges in my business and to pursue new opportunities. A career is what you make of it, and the sky’s the limit here—the potential for growth is tremendous. What’s compelling is the overall process by which the firm positions you to polish your talents in a way that’s meaningful for you personally and for the firm.
How does the work you do help Booz Allen be ready for what’s next? How has your and your team’s work made an impact for the firm?
I am working on several high-impact projects right now. Currently, we’re seeking to enhance the functional skills of our corporate finance staff with written tools and computer-based training; we’re streamlining our cash management processes; and we’re thinking about how to support future changes in the firm’s strategy. Different projects like these are always ongoing.
Can you talk about a time when you saw one or more of our Core Values displayed?
At Booz Allen, there’s an overall dynamic of teamwork. I’m surrounded here by people who are committed to common goals, who want to accomplish things as a team. And that means sharing knowledge and skills. When we swarm toward a targeted goal, we usually accomplish it.
