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1. What inspired you to pursue a career in talent advisory with Barden?
After years of working in finance, one of the things that I always enjoyed was the team dynamic — especially when a team clicked and worked together like a well-oiled machine. Working with Barden as both a client and candidate, I was genuinely impressed by their advisory-first approach for both talent and client. Recruitment was something I was always quite curious about, and over time, I got to know the team at Barden better. One coffee meeting led to another, and, well, here I am!
2. What’s the most valuable lesson you’ve learned in your career so far, and how has it impacted your work?
I have found that bringing energy and really following through is key — sticking with things until they’re done. Effectively, this all leads to building trust and dependability, which, in my mind, is the most important thing for career progression.
3. What’s one piece of advice you’d give to someone considering a career change?
Start by trusting your instincts. Listen to your gut and think about what you really want. Consider your ‘Must-haves’—whether it is progression, balance, salary, etc — your ‘Can’t-haves’, and maybe a few things in between. While too much advice can be unhealthy, getting input from people you genuinely trust or those who understand your field is key.
4. Can you describe a project or accomplishment at Barden that you’re particularly proud of?
Honestly, making the leap to join Barden is what I’m most proud of. It’s a completely different job from my previous finance roles. I was doing quite well in those roles, so making that move took some bravery.
5. What aspect of your work at Barden excites you the most?
I love how interactive and fast-paced it is. No two days are the same and, even with a plan, things can change in an instant. I really enjoy that variety! Plus, I get a real buzz from working with and interacting with people so there is no better job for that!
6. What’s a hobby/ interest you have that might surprise us?
I can solve a Rubik’s Cube…. I blame COVID for that one!!
7. If you could master a new skill instantly, what would it be and why?
I’d love to be a little more Zen —to be okay with simply doing nothing, switch off a little, and be present. It’s probably the same answer every parent of small kids would give! 😊
8. If you could swap jobs with anyone for a day, who would it be and what would you do?
This might sound a bit random, but I’d love to pick music for a movie soundtrack! I’ve always wanted to do this for some reason. I loved the likes of Trainspotting and Pulp Fiction growing up, so maybe that’s a factor. Who knows, maybe I’ll discover I have a hidden talent for it!
9. What’s one thing you’d like to accomplish, personally or professionally, in the next year?
As an aging dad who recently had knee surgery, I simply want to get back to a bit of 5-a-side soccer. Older man goals!!!
10. What’s the best piece of advice you have ever received?
This isn’t exactly advice, but I really like Tim Minchin’s speech to university students in Australia. I might not get it perfectly right, but it ends with something like: ‘Don’t rush. You don’t need to already know what you’re going to do with the rest of your life.’ It’s definitely worth a look if you haven’t seen it! (Check it out here>>> 😉)