The BCI is pleased to present the first A Career in Resilience report, which examines the experiences, routes, and personal qualities that have inspired careers in the field. A diverse range of well-respected business continuity and resilience professional were interviewed, uncovering diverse backgrounds and routes to their career in resilience.
Although the interviewees come from different backgrounds, different parts of the world, and different industries, several themes echo their paths. These are defining incidents, education, a propensity to care for the wellbeing of others, and sheer hard work and determination.
Inspiration through disruption and through family
The research shows that defining incidents can kickstart an interest in resilience, whether that be in childhood or later life. Interviewees experienced catastrophic floods, wars, and earthquakes which have drawn them to the industry. Others have drawn inspiration from mentors including family members who have careers such as fire service careers, competition with siblings, and community-spirited parents dedicating themselves to supporting others.
Lifelong learning is a strong parallel between all
Another strong theme drawn from this report is an interest in education and life-long learning. From straight A students to those that have struggled with challenges such as dyslexia and poverty, our interviewees have all dedicated themselves to learning and continuing to gain knowledge – a reassuring propensity given the evolving nature of the resilience field.
A top resilience professional requires rounded and diverse interests
Mirroring this interest in lifelong education is a passion for interests outside of traditional ‘schoolwork’. Resilience professionals have numerous interests including IT, coding and music, which is well-known for similarities to mathematics, and community volunteering. Perhaps not surprisingly, given the leaning towards volunteering, is valuing the importance of working and collaborating in a team. This research shows that resilience professionals hold the benefits a team brings in high regard, especially when it involves a diverse group of people, with different experiences, drawn from across the globe.
Hard work, sweat, but certainly not tears
And not least, this report has uncovered the overwhelming hard work ethic demonstrated by successful resilience professionals. They have all risen to challenges, sometimes multiple roadblocks, and relished the opportunity to shine. Despite often dealing with adverse circumstances, our interviewees have all demonstrated their dedication, commitment to knowledge, and their ability get the job done. It’s hard not to be inspired by these resilience professionals whose experiences, passion, and overriding need to ‘do some good’ is an inspiration.
This showcases just some of themes that contribute to a career in resilience. The full report contains more detailed insights into how to move into the resilience field and the skills they possessed that were highly valued by employers.
The BCI A Career in Resilience Report 2024 is available now