Many organizations immediately think of new technology when they talk about transformation. In my work, I've learned that successful change starts with people. Implementing a new tool is one thing, but getting people to actually use it and experience its benefits is often the real challenge.
'Real transformation starts with understanding people and their challenges, not with a tool that's simply handed over.'
Julia Rijkaart van Cappellen,Consultant Legal Transformation teamDifferent expertise, one shared goal
I work in PwC's Transformation Consulting team. We help organizations transform their legal, tax and HR functions. What makes our team unique is that we intentionally bring together people with different areas of expertise.
Legal professionals, tax specialists, process mining experts and consultants focused on adoption and change management all look at challenges from their own perspective. We don't approach transformation from a single angle – we look at the bigger picture and tackle it as a whole.
Variety that helps you grow
The variety in my work means that no two days are the same. One day I'm sitting down with a client to discuss challenges within their organization. The next, I'm testing new technologies to see what actually works in practice. On other days, I might be working on an ethical and legal assessment of AI applications or leading a workshop to help teams embrace new ways of working.
Because I'm constantly working at the intersection of different disciplines, I keep developing myself. I also collaborate with colleagues from a wide range of backgrounds, from law and data science to behavioural science. That means I learn something new every day.
'One of the biggest challenges in my field is finding the right balance between people, process and technology.'
Julia Rijkaart van Cappellen,Consultant Legal Transformation team
Looking beyond technology
One of the biggest challenges in my field is finding the right balance between people, process and technology.
Organizations sometimes invest heavily in advanced tools but underestimate what's needed to use them successfully. Technology alone doesn't create change. People need to understand why change is necessary and how it helps them in their day-to-day work.
That's why, at Delta, we always look beyond the technology itself. We map processes, identify opportunities and pay close attention to adoption and change management. Because real transformation only happens when people move with the change.
Looking beyond your own area of expertise
One thing I've learned at PwC is how valuable it is to work with people outside your own field. In many organizations, you mainly operate within your area of expertise. Here, you're constantly challenged to look beyond it.
The same applies to my own development. A good example is this story on PwC's website. Normally, I feel much more comfortable behind the scenes than in the spotlight. That's exactly why I decided to do it. Sometimes you learn the most when you try something that's outside your comfort zone.
'Because I work at the intersection of different disciplines, I'm constantly learning and developing myself.'
Julia Rijkaart van Cappellen,Consultant Legal Transformation teamAn open culture
The open culture at PwC makes that much easier. Colleagues support one another, share knowledge and are always willing to help. You see that collaboration not only in projects, but outside of work as well. Whether it's a game of padel, a puzzle tournament or our annual ski trip, those moments help you get to know people beyond their role.
For me, that makes a real difference. It's not just about working together on transformation – it's about continuing to learn and grow together.
Transformation isn't just about technology, processes or strategy. It's about people.
Curious how you can contribute to transformation while continuing to grow yourself? Discover the opportunities at PwC.
