Chief of Staff for the CEO of the Federal Practice at Deloitte LLP
Infantry platoon leader’s adaptability translates to success at Deloitte.
by Warren Duffie

It was Alex Haseley’s first day as a civilian employee, and he couldn’t believe the assignment he was given. He had to compile a number of reports, and received detailed, step-by-step instructions on how to do so.

The former infantry platoon leader hated the idea of hand-holding. After all, in Iraq he was responsible for executing counter-insurgency operations, including everything from overseeing the removal of thousands of pounds of unexploded ordnance to security patrols to ensuring that fuel and supplies were safely delivered to their destination. “I was frustrated at being told exactly how I should do something rather than just being given a higher objective and being allowed to figure out how to go about doing it,” said Haseley, a former Army captain. “I soon realized, though, that time is money and many people before me had figured out the fastest way to complete that task. It was my time to learn how to do it effectively, efficiently and with very high quality.” 

On the Job
Demonstrating the adaptability unique to military personnel, Haseley adjusted to his new role and has flourished within his company. He works for Deloitte LLP* – a leading professional services organization that provides consulting, financial advisory, tax, and auditing services. Haseley is part of Deloitte’s federal practice, which offers government agencies and contractors solutions regarding business strategy, operations, technology, risk management and human capital.

Haseley, 30, is the chief of staff for the CEO of the federal practice. Working from 0730 to 1930, he collaborates with internal groups such as public relations, finance and marketing to help them work effectively to accomplish the practice’s mission. He also compiles facts and figures from these groups to paint a larger picture to present to the CEO. His job runs the gamut from tactical planning to project management to financial analysis.

“In my job, people expect me to know everything that is going on,” Haseley said. “It’s a challenge to stay on top of everything and balance so many priorities. The military taught me to think on my feet, change in the middle of a complex situation and stay calm in high-stress situations.”

In Uniform
As a student at Virginia Military Institute, Haseley envisioned working as an intelligence officer. However, following the Sep. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks, he wanted to go where the action was and pursued a career as an infantry officer.

After graduating in 2002 with a degree in English, Haseley completed infantry training at Fort Benning, Ga. He served in Georgia, Iraq and Germany.

The Transition
By 2006 Haseley knew he wasn’t interested in a 20-year Army career and began preparing for his transition. He spoke to relatives currently in the civilian work force and wrote different cover letters and résumés targeting civilian companies, defense companies and government agencies.

Because his final duty station was in Germany, Haseley began interviewing with companies after he got out and returned stateside. He completed 20 interviews before landing a job with the consulting firm Bearing Point – which was acquired by Deloitte LLP in 2009. Haseley was promoted to his current position in 2009.

“One adjustment I had to make as a civilian was getting familiar with the timeline of promotion and advancement,” he said. “In the military, the timeline is more detailed and structured, whereas in the civilian sector it is not.

“If I could do anything differently, I would have taken leave while in Germany so I could interview with companies in the states, return to Germany to weigh my options, and get out of the Army with a firm job offer. I didn’t land a job until I had separated from the Army.”

Because his final duty station was in Germany, Haseley began interviewing with companies after he got out and returned stateside. He completed 20 interviews before landing a job with the consulting firm Bearing Point – which was bought by Deloitte LLP in 2009. Haseley was promoted to his current position in 2009.

What Haseley Likes About His Job

• I get paid to have an exciting, challenging career.
• I can help implement change within the company.
• My co-workers are brilliant and accomplished.
  

Haseley’s Advice:
Get started early. “There is a tendency for transitioners to jump early at an opportunity. Do research and figure out what you want to do. This will help minimize the time needed to find a job as well as allow you to find an ideal job.”

Be willing to learn new techniques. “Then apply the work ethic and leadership you learned in the military.”

Did You Know?
Deloitte LLP has a Junior Military Officer recruiting program targeting JMOs separating from the military with four to eight years of experience. For more information, visit www.deloitte.com/jmo.