We're excited to introduce Lisa Kenneally, our HR Manager here at Matrix Recruitment. With a rich background in HR, Lisa brings a wealth of experience and passion to our team. Today, we’re diving into her career journey, what Lisa loves most about working with Matrix, and her advice for anyone aspiring to enter the HR field.
1. What is your background?
I hold a BBS degree in HR from SETU (formerly WIT) and am a Chartered Member of the CIPD.
My HR career began in 1999 at Symantec, Dublin, where I progressed from HR Administrator to HR Generalist (HRG). In 2003, I returned to Waterford for a HRG role at Dawn Fresh Food, then moved to TEVA Pharmaceuticals, where I worked until the plant closed in 2010. After a year as a HRG at Hasbro Ireland, I joined Matrix Recruitment as HR Manager in 2012. In 2016, I transitioned to Hasbro (now Cartamundi) as HR Manager for six years.
Following a family break in 2022, I was delighted to rejoin Matrix as HR Manager in April 2024.
2. Can you describe your current role – what's your typical day-to-day?
My role as HR Manager is fast-paced and varied, encompassing all aspects of HR for our internal team while also building relationships with our payroll services clients and contract management.
A typical day can be hard to define due to the role's variety. My main focus is on people and culture, which means prioritising strategies for internal recruitment, people management, career development, and training.
3. What do you enjoy most about your job?
I love the teamwork, the supportive culture, and the variety of work that keeps every day interesting and engaging.
4. You’ve been part of the Matrix Recruitment team for 6 months now. What is your favourite thing about the team, and what are the key reasons you’ve stayed with the company?
I’ve really enjoyed my first six months back with Matrix. I returned because I value working with Kieran and the Matrix team. The culture is warm, supportive, and collaborative.
5. What advice would you give to someone who would like to become a HR Professional?
For anyone aspiring to become an HR professional, it's crucial to understand why they want to pursue this field. They should be genuinely passionate about people, culture, and driving change, and they need a solid grasp of the role’s responsibilities.
Gaining a relevant qualification is essential, as well as accumulating experience that exposes them to the various facets of HR. This breadth of experience will provide valuable insight into the field.
It’s also important to immerse themselves in the organisation, learning from employees and management alike. Understanding both the needs of the people and the business is vital to effectively guide and support them through the HR landscape on a day-to-day basis.
6. What are the 3 key skills you need to excel as a good HR Professional?
To excel in HR, you need discretion, emotional intelligence, and excellent communication skills.
7. What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given?
The best advice I’ve ever received is to trust my gut. It has served me well over the years and continues to do so!
8. What are you watching/reading at the moment?
I'm currently watching Emily in Paris on Netflix and The Great British Bake-Off. I love them both!
9. If you had one superpower, what would it be?
I’d love to be telepathic😊
We’re thrilled to have Lisa as part of our Matrix Recruitment family. Her commitment to our team and clients, along with her dedication to people and culture, makes her a valued member of our organisation.
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