Transformative Experience: Steven Catudal’s Six Months in Riyadh

Steven Catudal spent six months in Riyadh for a consulting project with Oliver Wyman, where he experienced a culturally rich work environment, significant project impact, and the challenges of living abroad. He noted differences in decision-making styles, a strong local team dynamic, and the rewarding experience of contributing to Saudi Arabia’s future while navigating the personal challenges of distance from family and friends.

Steven Catudal, an associate at Oliver Wyman, spent six months working on a consulting project in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, an experience he describes as transformative. Raised with a penchant for international travel, Catudal proactively sought opportunities to work abroad, having previously completed projects in Brazil, Germany, and Canada before moving to the Middle East. His venture was facilitated by his employer, who efficiently arranged visa and accommodation logistics before he departed for Riyadh.

During his tenure, Catudal observed significant differences between the consulting work environments in New York and Riyadh. In Riyadh, he noted the diversity of the teams, with professionals from various countries including India, Singapore, and Russia, contributing to a rich and collaborative atmosphere. Unlike Dubai, which he described as more expat-driven, the Saudi office prioritized local staffing.

The scale of projects in Saudi Arabia proved rewarding; Catudal relished the opportunity to contribute to initiatives that aimed to build Saudi Arabia’s future rather than solely focus on profit generation. Working alongside driven locals, many of whom had studied abroad, fostered a sense of shared purpose; they were deeply passionate about their country’s development.

Despite the intense consulting work, with tight deadlines and challenging weeks, Catudal embraced the demands of the role. Riyadh’s extreme summer heat, often reaching 110 degrees, posed another challenge as he opted for cabs to maintain comfort and stay cool before client meetings.

On weekends, Catudal explored the region, frequently traveling affordably to places like Oman, Turkey, and Morocco. He found Riyadh to be lively, particularly in the evenings, where vibrant activity flourished into the night. He appreciated the welcoming nature of the Saudis, who often extended invitations for meals and social gatherings. Language barriers were not a significant issue, as many locals were eager to assist him with translations and directions.

Nevertheless, Catudal experienced challenges being away from family and friends, noting the difficulty in keeping in touch due to time zone differences. He remarked on the emotional toll of missing important life events while on a long-term project.

Catudal believes that working abroad significantly enriches one’s career and personal growth. He appreciated the direct communication style in Saudi Arabia, where consensus was actively sought, contrasting with New York’s more implicit agreements. This experience illuminated the importance of diverse perspectives in team dynamics, instilling an understanding that various cultural backgrounds can shape problem-solving approaches.

In summary, Steven Catudal’s six-month consultancy in Riyadh significantly influenced both his professional and personal development. His experience highlighted the value of cultural diversity in the workplace, the rewarding nature of large-scale projects, and the unique challenges of living abroad. Despite the occasional difficulties, he advocates for international work experiences as crucial for lifelong growth and understanding. Catudal’s reflections serve as inspiration for others considering a similar path.

Original Source: www.businessinsider.com