Welcome to a new edition of Mather’s employee spotlight, where we introduce you to the talented individuals behind Mather Economics.
Today, meet Olivia Doty, a dynamic professional at Mather who excels as a business analyst, project manager, and documentation expert. Olivia is known for her ability to seamlessly transition between roles, always ready to tackle new challenges and assist colleagues. Her time at Mather has redefined her career approach, moving from constantly responding to immediate pressures to focusing on proactive, long-term planning. Renowned for her commitment to fostering a collaborative environment and prioritizing a healthy work-life balance, Olivia exemplifies the values that make Mather a great place to work! Discover more about her journey and the impact she has on our team by reading this short interview. Happy reading!
1. Can you tell us about your role and responsibilities within the company?
OD: In my role at Mather, I wear several hats, combining elements of a business analyst, project manager, and documentation expert. Right now, my focus is to help update, detangle, and streamline onboarding documentation, but I am always looking for opportunities to provide assistance within the company.
2. What skills or qualities do you think are essential for success in your role?
OD: My job is all about understanding problems and stitching knowledge together, so to be successful, I need to be able to work with everyone and leave my ego at the door to best gather information or meaningful insights. Therefore, I think objectivity, critical thinking, and a willingness to work with others are the most important qualities for me to succeed in my role.
3. What is your approach to problem-solving?
OD: The first step to problem-solving is to listen with an objective ear and be keen on the side comments, small details, or what sparks tangents. You hear it in relationship advice all the time, right? It’s the little things that build up into larger problems, and I have found work issues are similar in that way. It is hard to truly fix an issue until you find its roots, so be prepared to dig through months—even years—of accumulated weeds.
4. Can you share an interesting fact about yourself that your colleagues might not know?
OD: While some of my colleagues are aware I have two bachelor’s degrees—a BA in English Creative Writing and a BS in Information Systems Technology—only a few know that I originally returned to school pursuing a degree in Video Game Design. Why did I switch? I loved the 3D modeling and coding courses; for example, I loved coding a whole 2D platformer in JavaScript, but I could not stand all the Photoshop and basic art courses. That is when I pivoted to a true IT major, Information Systems Technology with a Cybersecurity focus, for my second degree.
5. How has the company culture influenced your work experience?
OD: In the past, my desire to help others before focusing on myself wasn’t always fully recognized. At Mather, my willingness to support my colleagues is genuinely valued and appreciated. The company fosters a culture of collaboration and mutual assistance, where my efforts to help others are seen as a strength. This supportive environment has boosted my morale and made me feel like a vital part of a team that truly values each member’s contributions. It’s incredibly rewarding to be in a place where my commitment to helping others is respected and encouraged.
6. How do you build relationships with colleagues and clients?
OD: I have found the key to building relationships, no matter where or with whom, is to be warm, supportive, and genuine. Rigidity has never served me well in a professional setting. If people are nervous or uncomfortable around me, I am immediately less effective at my job. Also, laugh at people’s jokes. I’m serious, it works wonders.
7. How has working here changed your perspective or approach to your career?
OD: Working here has really shifted my perspective and approach to my career in a big way. Before, my day-to-day was often about putting out fires and dealing with immediate pressures. It felt like I was constantly in reactive mode, just trying to keep up with whatever crisis came up next. But here, the focus is much more on long-term, broader business-level planning. Instead of just dealing with problems as they arise, we spend time thinking ahead and strategizing. This shift has taught me the importance of proactive planning and looking at the bigger picture.
8. How do you manage work-life balance, especially during busy periods?
OD: Honestly, I’ve had no issues with work-life balance while working at Mather, even during busy times. Every manager I’ve worked with respects our non-working hours and ensures that workloads are adjusted when “critical” issues arise. Working after hours is always a personal choice, and every manager I’ve talked with is always appreciative of the extra effort while also discouraging the abuse of it.
