LeRoy S. (he/him), originally from Oklahoma, is an IT business analyst in our information technology department in his fourth year at Paycom. He graduated from Oklahoma State University after many different major changes and received his degree in management information systems (MIS) with a minor in data science. LeRoy had the opportunity to take a handful of industrial engineering courses that also complemented his degree.
While on the job hunt, LeRoy found Paycom and applied. His experience with the recruiter and the leaders who interviewed him gave him a sense of hope. He felt he would be part of a team that could make an impact throughout Paycom.
He was encouraged by his leadership to pursue his master’s degree in business administration at the University of Central Oklahoma and completed it in 2022.
We caught up with LeRoy to talk more about his role as an IT business analyst.
What does a day in the life of an IT business analyst look like at Paycom?
Being an IT business analyst is all about putting the right pieces together, which makes it full of surprises. Every day, you are working on something different — a new request, a new challenge, a new curiosity. We continually ask ourselves, “How can we help our stakeholders?”
(Not sure what stakeholders means? At Paycom, we use the term to describe people who will be impacted by a project, not actual people holding pointy stakes.)
It takes collaboration, dedication, proactiveness, a certain amount of leadership, drive and a desire to help enhance processes and provide effective solutions. Our day is made up of meetings, research, documentation and minor project-managing work to bring it all together to push it to the finish line.
What classes or experience prepared you for this role?
In undergrad, I had classes related to project management, data visuals and SDLC (software development life cycle) courses that provided awareness and a solid background for the work I do today. While pursuing my master’s, I took several classes that I could also apply, including contract negotiations, agile methodologies, servant leadership, business ethics and decision management.
What is something you learned or wish you would have learned before getting to Paycom that would’ve better prepared you?
I wished I’d gotten more technical skills so I could work on more development-related projects. But a perk of Paycom is the opportunity to learn, and I’ve taken full advantage! Because of this, I’ve been able to jump on a few technical projects, get my feet wet and develop a stronger technical side.
In addition, I was able to observe my leaders and my team, building my skill set and adding value to the group. I am now working toward adding more certifications under my belt as well as working on bigger projects that can enhance my skills and help me grow and assist others.
What advice do you have for someone going into this role?
When I first started at Paycom, I was told, “Always be a fountain and not a drain.” I often thought about that phrase, and as people kept pouring into me, helping me develop, I felt empowered to do more with what I’ve learned. Your leaders, mentors and peers are all here to help you. It’s up to you to take what you’ve learned and pour into others. Be proactive. Be willing to step up and help others when you can.
LeRoy has found a career in tech that challenges him, helps him grow and continues to build his skill set in a collaborative, inclusive workspace. You, too, can find a place for your passion, crush goals and do meaningful work here in a variety of roles.
Learn more about an IT business analyst internship.