The BA Times

Send us a textUnlock the secrets to thriving in the evolving UK business analyst contract market with our insightful conversation featuring experts Pete Bagnall, Neil Murphy, and recruitment specialist Rory Wood from Investigo. We chat about how networking and personal connections are key in modern recruitment. Rory gives his insights on how keeping active on LinkedIn can boost your visibility and why personal recommendations often beat job site applications. We'll dive into the recruiter-business analyst relationship, focusing on empathy, specialisation, and strong client connections for consistent contract work and how the IR35 legislation is reshaping the role of interim contracts.Finally, we examine the future of recruitment through the lens of AI and remote work. Understand the balance between digital tools and in-person interactions, and ponder the intriguing possibilities AI presents in the hiring process. Whether you're a seasoned professional or new to the field, our discussion offers a view of the current trends and future directions in the recruitment world,Rory Wood: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rory-wood-268171134/Investigo: https://www.linkedin.com/company/investigo/PresentersNeil Murphy: https://www.linkedin.com/in/neil-murphy-1613601/Pete Bagnall: https://www.linkedin.com/in/petebagnall/

Ever wondered how the journey from a permanent Business Analyst role to a contracting position unfolds? Join us as Pete Bagnall and Neil Murphy, with nearly 40 years of combined experience, pull back the curtain on their professional paths through major companies like British Airways, Honda, and Lloyd's. You'll hear firsthand about the structured support, career progression, and learning opportunities that come with permanent roles. Discover how these environments nurture growth, allowing new BAs to spread their wings and make valuable mistakes safely. Neil's experiences at British Airways and Honda offer a glimpse into the supportive big office culture, while Pete shares how Lloyd's set the stage for his foundational growth.Switching gears, we dive into contracting, shedding light on the essential skills and mindset needed to thrive. Learn how to quickly adapt, deliver high-quality work, and master the art of networking, especially on LinkedIn. Pete and Neil discuss the practical challenges of contracting, from self-management to financial risks, and explore strategies to secure ongoing opportunities. Whether you're considering a shift from a permanent role or eager to understand the contracting lifestyle, this episode offers a wealth of insights and tips, underscoring that both career paths come with their own unique benefits and opportunities.

What happens when two seasoned professionals with over 40 years of combined experience face off in the classic Waterfall versus Agile debate? Join us, Pete Bagnell and Neil Murphy, as we share our personal journeys from Waterfall's rigid structure to Agile's dynamic flexibility. 

Welcome to The BA Times, Neil and Pete have a combined 38 years of experience as Business Analysts and will be chatting about all things BA related. In this first episode of The BA Times, the boys discuss what makes a good BA, why they stayed in the BA role, whether you need to have a degree to be a BA.