Q&A with Joseph Dabo: The US Army veteran advancing eDiscovery software solutions

What inspired you to pursue a career in technology? 

My journey into technology and financial services began at a job fair, in the middle of a baseball field of all places. At the fair I connected with Edge4Vets, an organisation helping veterans leverage their military and technical skills in corporate settings.

Through use of the GI Bill, a federal law that provides financial assistance to eligible veterans and their families for education, training, and other programs, I pursued education in film and cybersecurity.

Studying film taught me the power of storytelling, creativity, and visual communication. While my cybersecurity studies provided me with a strong technical understanding. This combination of creative and technical skills allows me to bridge gaps between those two worlds which exist in my current role as an eDiscovery analyst at Macquarie.

How did your experience in the US Army prepare you for a career at Macquarie?

I served in the US Army for seven years, with four years of active duty and three years in the US Army Reserves. Through training and on-the-job learning, I developed strong technical skills and a lot of discipline. During my active duty, I specialised in designing, deploying, and maintaining local and wide-area networks. I was responsible for approving, scheduling, planning, and supervising the installation, configuration, and testing of new products and improvements to computers, applications, telecommunication systems, and other essential office equipment. My efforts improved the overall network operations of over 10 military departments, which taught me how to manage complex projects, lead teams effectively, and prepared me to tackle the challenges and opportunities at Macquarie.

What does your day-to-day look like on the eDiscovery team?

My role involves streamlining the identification, collection and delivery of relevant electronic data to assist with litigation and compliance requests. My team and I verify that the technology is in place so we can easily identify, collect, and preserve all information and deliver important electronic communications. This helps our global customers focus on what they do best and succeed in their main business activities.

How does your manager and team support you to manage your work and life priorities?

My managers at Macquarie truly encourage me to maintain a healthy balance between my work and life. Because of their guidance, I can come to work every day and do work that I am proud of and balance this with my hobbies outside of the office. During our weekly check ins, my manager and I align on my most timely assignments, so I know what needs my attention and when. I place a lot of trust in my team, and I know they trust me in return to get the job done. That level of mutual accountability is helpful and ties back to my experience in the US Army.

How do you feel connected to your colleagues? 

I’m a member of Macquarie’s Veteran employee network group, where I participate in monthly meetings and volunteer activities, such as workshops, community projects, and local fundraisers that support veterans. Right from the start of my time at Macquarie, I felt embraced and part of the team. The camaraderie and support I've received from my colleagues have made my time here rewarding and fulfilling.

What advice would you give to a veteran looking to join financial services?

My time in the US Army taught me the skills needed to collaborate with individuals from a wide variety of backgrounds. The leadership and discipline we gain in the military are so useful in corporate settings, which surprised me at the start. I’d encourage any veteran looking to move into a corporate setting to just take the first step and speak to other veterans who have gone through a similar career path. The veteran community across the US and within Macquarie is tight knit, it’s something to be proud of and celebrate.