pwc financial service delivery center processing associate

Long response to my own question but may be of interest to readers. Went in for an on-site interview and came back with the following info:

The Center –

The Service Delivery Center in Columbia, SC is part of a greater paradigm shift – a “Global Delivery” sourcing model that focuses on creating delivery centers across the pwc network, which is a product of the firm’s attempt to transform the way Advisory SoL delivers client service. Columbia center is one of eight of its kind, which are positioned all over the globe (yes, being in Columbia, this is an Onshoring reaction - the model resonates heavily with what pwc is doing in India - but they market it as a strategic placement between SE financial hubs of Atlanta and Charlotte). The Columbia location houses business processes being delivered to Financial Services Clients, across a variety of subsectors. It is leveraged for business process execution, program and project management, PDLC, and testing (among other things). Judging by the tone the presentation it seems as though this is a model pwc is giving heavy consideration to expanding. Etc…

The Position –

Processing Associates are leveraged to perform routine activities that are high volume, low risk, and non-client facing. Especially problematic is that, given the novelty of the business model and accordingly this position, the firm has yet to articulate a clear career progression model. It is very ambiguous as to what opportunities exist beyond the center. One manager I interviewed with was clear and up-front in conveying that the firm did not have any idea regarding a clear path as to how Processing Associates could move up and around within the firm. This, more so than pay, location, or other factors, is what concerns me the most.

The Bottom Line – (things mostly for my own contemplation)

Pros Great firm – “foot in the door” – ability to stand behind pwc name down the road Professional experience in finance Experience within a dynamic, new business delivery model Learning culture, etc. Possibility for relatively quick merit-based advancement (though only within the Columbia Center)

Cons/Uncertainties Will position carry negative stigma? (either internally or externally, will processing associates merely be known as low-paid grunts?) Will work be interesting? Low pay relative to current compensation Marginal Location

Would love to hear what others think, if they have encountered this position, or if they could shed light on possible career progression.

Thanks for your time.