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1. What inspired you to pursue a career in talent advisory with Barden?
After a year in accounting, I realised I was more drawn to people-focused work. I majored in HR during my final year of college, so I always knew I could explore other paths if accounting didn’t feel like the right fit.
Initially, I wasn’t sure about recruitment, but meeting the team at Barden changed my perspective. Their people-first approach – how they work with, support, and genuinely care about others – really resonated with me. That mindset is what ultimately drew me to a career in talent advisory.
2. What’s the most valuable lesson you’ve learned in your career so far, and how has it impacted your work?
To stay curious and always look for opportunities to learn. This mindset has been key to my professional growth.
3. What’s one piece of advice you’d give to someone considering a career change?
If you’re thinking about a career change, it’s probably worth exploring. Work takes up a big part of our lives, so it’s better to explore your options than to live with regret.
Another thing to keep in mind is that technology has made it easier to access courses that help you upskill, making it simpler to pivot into something new. Talk to people in the field, do your research, and take small steps to test the waters.
4. Can you describe a project or accomplishment at Barden that you’re particularly proud of?
One project I’m proud of is publishing our quarterly tech report, In Focus – Technology Talent Strategies & Insights. (see here>>>). I dedicated a lot of time earlier this year developing the report, and it was rewarding to see it come to life. As Ireland’s tech market undergoes significant changes, the report offers insights into how these shifts affect hiring, talent retention, and career development.
5. What aspect of your work at Barden excites you the most?
What I enjoy most is meeting new people every day and hearing their stories. Every conversation is different and helping someone take a step forward in their career, whether big or small, is very rewarding.
6. What’s a hobby/ interest you have that might surprise us?
It might not be a huge surprise as I’m known for being a huge dog lover, but I spent some time in the past working at a dog groomers. I love helping friends and neighbours with their dogs – whether it’s dog-sitting, walking, or giving them a quick trim to tide them over until their next groom.
I would love to run a dog rescue one day. My childhood dog, Sparky, was a rescue and lived to the amazing age of 21. He is the reason behind my passion for helping dogs.
There have been some memorable moments – like taking in a Bichon for the night after finding it wandering the streets or helping reunite a lost Jack Russell with its owner, who had been searching for hours. Helping and caring for dogs is something that brings me a lot of joy!
7. If you could master a new skill instantly, what would it be and why?
My team might laugh at this one, but I’d actually love to learn how to code. Since I work with software developers on a daily basis, I’ve always been curious about what goes on behind the scenes and how it all comes together.
8. If you could swap jobs with anyone for a day, who would it be and what would you do?
I hadn’t really thought about this question before, but the first person who comes to mind is Lee Asher. I watch his YouTube videos and often find myself thinking how much I’d love his job. He runs a nonprofit animal sanctuary in the US called ‘The Asher House’, caring for all kinds of animals, with lots of stories about rescuing dogs in need.
9. What’s one thing you’d like to accomplish, personally or professionally, in the next year?
A wise man once said – don’t tell anyone your plans until they materialise!
10. What’s the best piece of advice you have ever received?
Believe you can, and you’re halfway there.