Case studies: Lead spatial analyst: Deborah Davies

Deborah works as a lead spatial analyst in the Marketing Information Services division of Experian, a leading global information services company. She graduated in 2009 from the University of York with a BSc in mathematics and finance.

I somewhat fell in to working in geographical information services (GIS) and spatial analytics - I was applying for jobs after university and saw the position, (which I thought sounded interesting), applied and got the job!

Most people in my team had prior GIS experience - either an undergraduate geography degree with a strong GIS element, a GIS Masters or PhD. However, there are a few of us with a mathematical background and my degree is still relevant, for example I was able grasp all the geographical modelling techniques easily. Also, the computer programming that was involved in my degree meant that I could readily pick up the various computing languages used.

We work on projects for a variety of clients; these tend to be longer term the more experience you have. Mostly I work on projects lasting a few months and day-to-day work varies. It can include analysing data, building models, writing presentations/reports, writing code, e.g. to create multiple reports or maps, or presenting findings to clients.

During my time at Experian, I have moved from a junior analyst to an analyst and then lead analyst. Consequently, my work has changed quite a bit. The projects I work on now are more complex and high profile and I also have involvement in the running of the team, and managing and training other team members. I also get to have greater input into the types of projects that I do and can tailor them to my interests, like retail. My plan is to move into management whilst staying in this area.

The best thing about my role is that every project and every day is different. I never stop learning new things and I get to work for lots of well-known, global brands. The work I do is really interesting and the insights we uncover are fascinating. Working in GIS is a great way to apply technical and abstract ideas, such as modelling, to real-life situations.

Working in consultancy means I experience many types of project in a wide range of sectors, such as retail, automotive and public. The constant variation keeps things interesting and means that I have developed a wealth of knowledge.

When I first started, the steep learning curve was a challenge - the level and range of knowledge needed seemed insurmountable, and constantly having new things to learn can be daunting.

For graduates interested in working in GIS, I would say don’t be put off if you lack an academic GIS background as other disciplines can be beneficial. However, exposure to the field is helpful, as is working with as many different spatial software packages as possible. Look widely for jobs to help you find the right opportunity for you.