Show notes
Graham McAllister reflects on his various career pivots, starting with a PhD in computer graphics in Belfast, transitioning through roles in academia and industry and then forming and later selling his games usability start-up. In the process Graham provides a masterclass on how to navigate and negotiate career pivots, how to articulate clear problems and solutions. The conversation highlights the value of bridging practical and theoretical domains, the role of luck and other people, and the need for continuous learning, reflection and adaptation in your career journey while being very clear about the strengths and passions that underpin this. Overview:00:00 Episode Introduction03:01 Welcoming Graham03:43 Early Career and PhD Journey04:49 Transition to Industry06:01 Straddling Academia and Industry07:54 Return to Academia and Music Technology13:34 Influence of Gary Marsden17:41 Joining University of Sussex21:18 Starting a Spin-Out Company21:52 Balancing Academia and Startup25:24 Challenges and Reflections31:37 Academic vs. Industry Conferences32:32 Critical Thinking in Video Game Development33:28 Startup Challenges and Team Building34:32 Marketing Through Education40:56 Leadership Reflections and Authenticity48:35 Selling the Company and Moving Forward56:20 EndRelated Links:Graham’s Home pageand LinkedIn pagePeople he mentions: Ricardo Climent and Gary Marsden
