Intro to the graduate
Emilia completed her master’s in Digital Innovation & Management at the IT University of Copenhagen in the summer of 2024. She works as a consultant in NewTech – a service line at the forefront of merging advanced tech like AI and automation with strategic insight to transform how organisations operate, empowering them to be smarter, faster, and ahead of the curve. Besides being a fulltime consultant, Emilia is currently part of KPMG’s Challenger Academy, a graduate program aimed at equipping “challengers” with consulting skills for today’s business landscape. Through a series of training modules, she’s developing strengths in project management, problem-solving, and innovation.
When did you first hear about the Graduate Programme?
I was lucky to meet a senior consultant from NewTech at a KPMG event a bit over a year ago. We followed up with the classic coffee meeting and stayed in touch until I submitted my application.
What made you apply to the programme?
With only three workshop periods (mostly 2-3 days at an external location) throughout the year, the KPMG Challenger Academy is really more about stepping into the consultant role than just going through a programme. What truly pulled me towards NewTech and KPMG was the energy and enthusiasm of the people here – not just their passion for the work, but the way they lift each other up. The idea of working alongside people who geek out about AI, automation, and the future of business as much as I do was a huge draw.
What has been the highlight of being a graduate so far?
There’ve been so many highlights – it’s hard to choose just one… For the first training module, all of us Challengers went to the Netherlands, which was a lot of fun. It was a perfect way to meet consultants across KPMG and get a feel for the consulting world. One of the best parts was our day in Leiden, where we worked on a case to rethink the city’s infrastructure for sustainability and then presented our ideas. And, of course, the gala party was a blast!
"I didn’t expect to feel like I was in a “honeymoon phase” with my job. I had high expectations coming in, but KPMG has actually managed to exceed them.".
What has surprised you the most about working at the company?
I didn’t expect to feel like I was in a “honeymoon phase” with my job. I had high expectations coming in, but KPMG has actually managed to exceed them. I feel incredibly lucky to work with such welcoming, talented, and fun colleagues. One of them has just opened his own bar – how cool is that! I was also surprised by KPMG’s commitment to work-life balance – there’s a strong focus on flexibility and trust. As long as you’re doing your best and meeting your goals, you have the freedom to structure your day in a way that works for you.
What has been the biggest challenge you have had to overcome as a graduate so far?
The biggest challenge has definitely been the shift from university to the workplace. At university, learning is mostly theoretical, with a focus on understanding concepts, handing in assignments, and passing exams with clear guidelines and deadlines. But stepping into NewTech meant diving into a fast-paced, hands-on role where things move quickly and require adaptability. Staying in sync with my buddy and “Koach” (spelled with a K for that KPMG vibe) has been key to understanding what my team and clients expect. Luckily, everyone’s been super supportive and keeps reminding me that they know I’m just starting out – they don’t expect me to have it all figured out just yet.
What advice do you have to other applicants that are considering applying for the programme?
Go for it! Especially to the women out there – I know it’s common for us to feel like we need to tick every box before applying, but that really shouldn’t be the case. In NewTech and across KPMG, there’s a big focus on hiring people for their mindset and curiosity over just hard skills or achievements. We look for people who do what’s right, are always learning and improving, dare to think out of the box, respect and draw strength from our differences, and genuinely want to make an impact. If that sounds like you, then go for it!
