How to Change Industry
- Eliza McGivern
- 19th Feb 2025
How to Change Industry: Insights from Cameron WebbChanging industries can feel like navigating uncharted waters. Cameron Webb, a seasoned executive, has made several successful transitions across diverse industries, each time bringing his expertise to new challenges. We sat down to speak with Cameron and he generously shared his personal experience, valuable lessons learned, and tips for those considering a career pivot.1. It Takes Time to Change IndustryCameron’s journey of change didn’t happen overnight. Reflecting on his career, he explains that, at one point, he reached a stage where there simply wasn’t much room for further growth. He realised it was time for a change, but the path forward was unclear."I started with no idea on how to make that move," says Cameron. "I spent time researching and figuring out what my next steps should be. What role would I pursue? Who could help me? What skills would I need? And what would it feel like? All these questions required careful consideration."It wasn’t an easy transition. Cameron spent three years contemplating his next move, gradually building a plan for himself. He thought about the type of work he wanted, the environment he would thrive in, and the role that would challenge him."It took time," he admits, "but when I finally made the leap, it felt like the right decision. The new role reignited my passion, and I felt motivated again. Since then, I’ve become quicker at making decisions because I’ve learned what drives me. I know when it’s time to move."What Cameron learned during this process is the importance of staying motivated and challenged. For him, the key to job satisfaction lies in learning and growth. When the balance tips and he finds himself demotivated, he knows it’s time to reassess.2. Don’t Assume You KnowOne of the most valuable lessons Cameron has learned in his industry transitions is the importance of staying open-minded. "It’s easy to assume you know things, especially when you come with a lot of experience. But each industry has its own nuances that might surprise you."When Cameron transitioned into manufacturing, he had to shift his mindset. Despite his strong background in retail and consulting, he quickly realised that he needed to be humble and willing to learn from others."I came in thinking I knew what to expect, but the reality was often different. There were experts around me who had been in the industry for years, and if I had listened more intently, I would have avoided some missteps," Cameron reflects. "It’s essential to be mindful and never assume things are the same just because they seem similar on the surface."For anyone considering a change, Cameron advises caution. While you might have valuable skills from your previous role, understanding the specific context of the new industry is critical to success.3. Personal Development is CriticalCameron’s journey of career transformation isn’t just about switching industries. It’s also about continuous personal growth. He believes in constant learning and development to stay relevant and effective in any role."I’ve always focused on personal development," he says. "Early on, I did both an undergraduate and a postgraduate degree, which gave me a strong foundation for leadership and business. But later in my career, it’s been all about understanding myself—how to lead more effectively, how to handle challenges, and how to improve in the areas that matter most."Cameron credits this focus on self-awareness and improvement for his success in navigating different industries. He believes that being honest about your strengths and weaknesses—and actively working to improve—is crucial for anyone looking to transition or grow in their career."Personal development isn't just about learning new skills. It’s about knowing who you are, what you bring to the table, and where you can improve."Key Takeaways from Cameron Webb's Career TransitionsPatience and Planning: Changing industries takes time. Cameron spent three years carefully researching, planning, and figuring out what type of role, environment, and work would motivate him. Once he made the decision, it reignited his passion for work.Stay Open-Minded: Don't assume that skills and knowledge from your previous industry automatically apply. Each industry has its own nuances, so it's important to be humble, listen to others, and be open to learning.Focus on Personal Development: Continuous learning and self-awareness are essential. Cameron prioritises understanding his strengths and areas for improvement, which has helped him navigate various roles successfully.Know What Drives You: For Cameron, the key to job satisfaction is feeling challenged and learning. When the balance is off, he knows it’s time to reassess and make a change.Watch the Full Interview with Cameron & Learn MoreCameron’s approach to industry change is simple but profound: embrace the change, understand what drives you, and be open to the lessons each new experience brings. With these guiding principles, anyone can make a successful transition, regardless of the industry. The lessons learned along the way can not only help you succeed in your new role but also enrich your career as a whole.🎥 Watch the full video interviews here: Career Lifecycle Series - Career Transition GuideWhy Partner with Us?Business leaders need top-tier talent to exceed expectations and drive growth. At Parity, we swiftly attract and mobilise the best candidates across Financial Services and Tech, ensuring they align with your culture, performance, and reputation.With years of earned trust, Parity specialises in unearthing those perfect truffles—candidates in Product, Transformation, Marketing, Communications, Digital, and Data, who will elevate your organisation while ensuring quality always trumps quantity.Our equitable and transparent placement process is trusted by clients and candidates alike.At Parity, we're committed to supporting both our clients and candidates. For a confidential discussion, don't hesitate to reach out to one of our consultants.
Read more