Ruth works for Tom Smyth and Associates, a HR consultancy firm in Cork. Her job varies on a day-to-day bases regarding all aspects of HR, including conflict resolution, employment law, grievance, disciplinary, and dignity at work processes. In addition, Ruth is a qualified mediator and enjoys working through workplace conflict with employees to find resolutions and ways forward to support positive workplace culture.
Name: Ruth Feely
Position & Organisation: HR Consultant, Tom Smyth and Associates
Number of Employees: 10
Give us an idea about your early life and career:
I went to college in Dublin and studied Radio Broadcasting. At the time I wasn’t sure which path I wanted my career to take, but I knew that I enjoyed working and engaging with people. After college I spent many years working in hospitality as a waiter which later progressed into managing restaurants which I loved. My hospitality career afforded me the opportunity to travel and see the world. After many years of working in the service industry I made the decision later in life to return to college and study Human Resource Management. I realised that I found something that I really enjoyed, I took a leap of faith and decided to leave hospitality and search for a role in HR and become a Monday to Friday person. I haven’t looked back.
What are the key challenges you face in your role?
One of the biggest challenges that you face as a HR consultant would be the varying type of issues that arise on a daily basis. For me I see this as a positive as I love the variety and I love that every day is different from the next. It challenges you to be adaptable, organised and good at prioritising.
After a tough week, what’s your go-to for recharging and staying grounded?
I love long walks on the beach with my partner and dog, hiking, cooking and baking, and spending time with family and friends. Fresh air and a walk with my dog always recharges my battery.
What’s the funniest or most unusual thing that’s ever happened in an interview, and what did it teach you?
A company once asked me to come in for a chat, my understanding was that the company were looking for some managerial insight and I was there to help and offer some advice, halfway through the chat I remember asking myself…. is this an interview? I wasn’t aware that they were looking to hire someone, and I wasn’t looking for a job at the time. In the end I worked for this company for several years and loved my time there. It taught me to always be open minded as you never know what will come your way when you least expect it.
What’s the most important piece of advice you’d give to someone aspiring to your role, especially in today’s fast-changing world?
I would advise anyone who wants a career in HR to get real life experience in everyday working environments first. My hospitality background has been invaluable to me in so many ways and has given me many transferrable skills. I feel that returning to college when you understand the working world gives you further insight that helps you to apply the learnings that college has to offer. I would also say don’t ever be afraid to change your career, and find what is right for you.
Imagine HR is a reality TV show—what would the title of your episode be?
“Stranger than Fiction”