Be Your Future

Jon King is a MACH who started at Microsoft in 2010, Jon began as an analyst in the Performance Account Management team in A&O, he changed roles two months ago to work as an analyst in the Display Account Management team. Jon is working to streamline the processes within the AM team and finding ways to minimize the administrative side of account management.

Jon has had a very successful career at Microsoft so far, so I took the opportunity to sit down with him over breakfast for a Q&A session…

So what would you say the best thing about working for Microsoft is?
Firstly, working in the media side of the business is fantastic, it’s fast moving, exciting, young and vibrant. The working environment is really empowering, from day one I’ve been given the autonomy to make changes, challenge the way we operate and offer solutions to the constant challenges we face on a daily basis.

What are your biggest successes on the MACH scheme?
I would say that my biggest successes have been around the differences that I’ve made to the teams that I’ve worked in; in my first role I managed to save each member of my team an average of 15-20 hours each week- it was fantastic to see that with some hard work and a lot of Excel I could have a huge impact on those around me. Winning a gold star award in my first 6 months in the company was also another massive highlight for me; it’s a great feeling to know that your contribution is recognized by the business.

How do you find working in London?
Working in London is a great experience- I must admit that I was a bit apprehensive about moving here, however with the amount that is always going on and the great offices that we work in I’m really happy that I got the opportunity. Whilst the offices in Cardinal Place might not have the breadth of facilities that there are in Reading, having central London on your doorstop provides a wealth of places to get some lunch or grab a cheeky beverage after work.

What would you say about the MACH community?
It’s great working with a group of likeminded individuals; you automatically have a lot in common with your peer group. I’ve made some really good friends on the scheme, we’ve had the opportunity to go some awesome places on training and share a lot of incredible experiences. There is a close knit group of us in London – only 4 at the moment – so we get on really well. It’s great having the support there and the social element of the job.

What advice would you give people applying to the MACH scheme?
My top piece of advice is to be passionate about Microsoft and know why you want to work here. Whilst we all have different academic and work backgrounds; the common theme is that everyone has a real passion for the company. It also goes without saying that you need to do your research- preparation is key!

What do you think the next 12 months at Microsoft holds?
I look forward to graduating from the MACH scheme in September; other than that it’s a case of keeping up the hard work and making the most of all the opportunities along the way!