Trading pasta for pierogi: Paola’s journey with PwC and Poland

Careers in Poland: What inspired you to work at PwC and choose Poland as a destination?

Paola Agamennone: I started working at PwC in October 2023, a little over a year ago. Before that, I had never been to Poland, though I’d heard great things about it from friends and colleagues. After finishing my bachelor’s and master’s degrees in Italy, I noticed that Poland’s job market was thriving, especially in fields like mine. Compared to Italy, Poland offers more opportunities, especially in big cities.

The professional environment here stood out. My field, AML (Anti-Money Laundering), wasn’t as prevalent in Italy, and I found it exciting to work in a role that let me use my German language skills alongside English.

And moving to Warsaw was a great decision – when I arrived, I was amazed by the mix of modern skyscrapers and historical charm. The welcoming culture made it easy to settle in.

CP: What drew you to AML and this part of PwC’s business?

P.A.: Initially, my goal was to find a job where I could use German, a language I had worked hard to master. AML intrigued me because it’s a growing field, especially in Poland, and directly connects to real-world financial processes. At PwC, I get to work with German-speaking clients while also improving my English daily.

This role has allowed me to bridge professional and personal growth. Relocating here has also been an opportunity to learn Polish – though it’s challenging! Overall, I was drawn by the chance to work in a dynamic field with an international focus.

CP: What advantages have you found working for PwC in Poland?

P.A.: The biggest advantage is working for a multinational company with strong values and a supportive, multicultural environment. Despite being the only Italian in my office, I felt integrated from day one. This inclusivity is something you don’t always find in smaller companies.

I also appreciate PwC’s flexibility, like the option to work remotely or in a hybrid mode. For instance, I can work from Italy when visiting home. This balance between work and life is invaluable.

CP: And, from another side of the spectrum, what challenges does it involve? And how do you manage to face them?

I suppose the main challenge was starting in a completely new field. There were so many new things – new country, workplace, and colleagues – and process details to master.

But, on the bright side, PwC eased the transition with a thorough induction program that included two weeks of intensive training.

CP: You’ve mentioned the induction program. Could you tell us more about the experience?

P.A.: The induction lasted about two weeks and was entirely in English. It started with a general introduction, where we met our team over coffee and pizza. The rest of the training included interactive presentations and practical sessions, led by trainers from different backgrounds.

What I appreciated most was how the process encouraged – but didn’t force – interaction. It helped us bond as a group, and many of us still stay connected, even across different offices. The training gave me a solid understanding of AML processes and set me up to feel confident in my role.

CP: Did this experience make it easier for you to get familiar with the new job and new company?

P.A.: Yes! The combination of professional growth opportunities and the chance to connect with people from diverse cultures has made this experience very rewarding. I’m grateful to be part of a team that values collaboration.

CP: What opportunities for personal or professional growth have you encountered while working at PwC?

P.A.: Working at PwC has been a great experience. Both personal and professional growth, I would even say.

In my current project meeting targets and performing well has led to opportunities for advancement. For example, starting as an analyst, you can quickly grow into higher roles.

What I particularly appreciate about working here is the collaborative environment – new employees often reach out for help, and there’s always someone willing to assist, which is great!

CP: What surprised you the most about Polish culture or people?

P.A.: Coming from southern Italy, let's just say – some cultural differences stood out! (laughs). Italians are very expressive and physical, like greeting people with hugs or cheek kisses, which isn’t common in Poland. I also noticed the "Polish smile," which is more reserved than what I’m used to.

That said, I’ve mostly had positive experiences. People here are polite, helpful, and kind. For instance, a colleague in Poznań went out of her way to help me navigate local bureaucracy when I arrived. The cities I’ve visited – Warsaw, Gdańsk, Poznań, and Kraków – are clean, safe, and beautiful. I especially appreciate how safe Poland feels, even as a woman living alone.

CP: And what was the biggest adjustment?

The biggest adjustment was the weather – especially in winter!

I come from Puglia, a region in the south of Italy, where winters are mild, so I was shocked by Poland’s harsh winters! It took me about a year to adapt – layering clothes and understanding how to best handle the cold, and do on.

Although I love Polish summers, which are mild and quite enjoyable, especially when compared to the heat of southern Italy – so there is an upside!

CP: Would you recommend Poland and PwC to others considering working abroad?

P.A.: Absolutely! Poland is a modern and well-organized country, with efficient transportation and services that make life easier. Warsaw, for instance, is incredibly accessible and has a strong Italian community, which was a pleasant surprise.

Poland also offers a good job market, with companies actively seeking multilingual professionals. While Italy often demands extensive experience for entry-level roles, here the expectations are more realistic, allowing younger professionals to gain valuable experience.

When it comes to the second part of your question – working at PwC – this is something I would recommend, as well!

It's a great experience also for newcomers – the environment is supportive, and the company invests in your learning. For example, my role required language skills (English and German, in my case), but they didn’t expect me to start fully trained in specific technical areas – they helped me grow into the role.

What I particularly appreciate about working here is that PwC provides diverse paths based on your skills and personality. So if you’re more reserved, you could excel in analytical roles. And if you’re talkative and social, you might be recommended for recruitment or… doing interviews! (laughs).