60 SECONDS WITH HUAN TAN
Manager Huan Tan first joined Beghou Consulting’s Evanston office in 2015 before transferring to its Durham office in 2019. With a master’s degree in computer science, and a doctorate in biomedical engineering, Huan’s areas of expertise include data management and advanced analytics, and he is passionate about making an impact through his work, such as using data to answer real-life questions.
What led you to work at Beghou?
“Prior to joining Beghou, I worked in research, but I wanted to transition into a career where I could more clearly see the direct impact of my work. I found Beghou through a mutual friend and felt it was a good fit because it allowed me to use a data-driven approach – much like I did in research – but work directly with companies to help them answer questions and solve challenges.”
What are your hobbies outside of work?
“Outside of work, I am an avid podcast listener so I’m often listening to programs such as NPR, Gimlet, and This American Life. I also enjoy spending time outside travelling and hiking, and even doing not-so-fun outdoorsy things like yardwork.”
Do you have a favorite travel story or destination?
“One of my favorite vacations is a road trip I took with friends from Portland to San Francisco. We drove along Highway 1 and stopped at national parks including Yosemite, Redwood, and Crater Lake, and I even proposed to my now-wife on this trip (at Cook’s Chasm).“
What is the best advice you were ever given? Who was it from?
“My advisor in graduate school told me that he’s always right until he’s proven wrong. This advice helped me to be independent and confident in what I know, even if someone else knows more than I do. And it has allowed me to present more confidently when I am working with clients and mentoring colleagues.”
Speaking of guidance, can you talk about mentorship at Beghou and how that plays a role in your success?
“Mentorship is an important part of the culture at Beghou. I’ve learned a lot from people at all levels. It is a very collaborative culture, and we’re actively mindful of developing skills for new hires, not just finishing client work. As an individual, I’ve gained a lot of experience and knowledge by working on projects with other people, observing them and asking questions.”
What advice do you have for a new hire that joins Beghou?
“If you like data and like to leverage, or develop insights from, data to answer a question, Beghou is a great fit. My advice is to be open to opportunities, learning about new things and expanding your skills; Beghou is a company that recognizes your efforts and rewards hard work.
Additionally, it’s important to think outside the box. The knowledge you have from prior life may bring new ideas to an existing problem.“
