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Brian O’Connor ACA is an Associate with Barden’s Accounting & Tax practice, and an expert in recently qualified accounting careers.
Brian qualified as a Chartered Accountant in 2017, completing his training with Deloitte. He is a graduate of UCD and holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Business/Commerce and a Master’s Degree in Accounting.
Following his training in Deloitte he spent some time travelling and working in Australia gaining experience within industry, working in financial accounting roles with Vocus Group Limited, Toll Group and Independent Cement & Lime Group.
We chatted to him recently to find out a bit more about him…
Where are you from?
Dublin born and raised.
Where did you study?
I studied Commerce in UCD and went on to do a Masters in Accounting in Smurfit Business School before finally joining Deloitte and getting my ACA qualification.
What did you enjoy most about your time studying?
Meeting new friends along the way. I met some great people at each stage of my education and wouldn’t change a thing.
How old were you when you had your first paying job? And what was it?
16, I was a “Chicken Fillet Roll Technician” in my local Centra. I think my sandwich making skills are still top notch!
Where did you work before joining Barden?
My most recent role before Barden was as a Financial Accountant in a cement distribution company in Melbourne, this was my first time working in an SME and I really enjoyed being exposed to all elements of the business. It was a big change from my previous roles in larger MNCs.
Is there an achievement that you are most proud of?
I organised and participated in a charity cycle from Dublin to Dingle a couple of years ago. We managed to raise over €5,000 to help fund a primary school in Lebanon for Syrian refugees. The weather was amazing and it was great craic, I’d love to do it again some time.
What made you decide to move into the world of recruitment?
I’ve always loved working with different people and the opportunity to work with new people every day while still keeping in tune with the accounting industry was something that really appealed to me.
Why did you choose to work with Barden?
The team and culture here at Barden really stood out for me, I was instantly drawn to the values and ethos at the core of the business.
What’s the best thing about working here?
Again, the people. The broad range of people I meet and get to help on a daily basis is something that’s hard to find elsewhere.
What does your role in Barden involve?
My role focusses on recently qualified accounting professionals and helping them in their careers. I try to use my own experiences to help understand each person’s needs and preferences, and support them in making the best decision for them.
Have you a favourite saying or quote?
“Bíonn siúlach scéalach”, the well-travelled tell a good tale.
Glass half full or half empty?
Definitely half full. I try to find the good in every situation, even in the midst of this pandemic I keep thinking – at least I can wear sliders to work.
What’s your favourite sport?
I’ve always been a big football fan and try go to the Ireland games when I can. I went to the Euros in France 4 years ago and it was the funniest couple of weeks I’ve ever had! COYBIG
Where in the world would you most like to visit?
A big trip around South America is next on my list. I spent a month in Colombia a few years ago but I’m yet to explore the rest of the continent. It seems like a distant dream at the moment but we’ll get there one day!
And finally, who would win a fight between Spiderman, Batman or Wonder Woman?
That’s a tricky one, but Spiderman gets my vote.
Need help achieving your ambitions?
Are you a recently qualified accounting professional looking for help in achieving your ambitions? If so, get in touch with Brian O’Connor ACA today at brian.oconnor@barden.ie who would be more than happy to chat and help you navigate your professional future.