Growth through opportunity: Sinead Hourigan's Story

When I was finishing university in Ireland, I never imagined my life would take the path it has. I began my career as a graduate in the Irish Government, but like many people early in their careers, I felt the pull to try something new. I planned a one-year sabbatical to Australia - a chance to explore, reset, and experience something different. That one year turned into 22, and what started as a temporary adventure became the foundation of my professional life.

When I first arrived in Australia, I worked in professional services before moving into recruitment with a small boutique firm. After two years in the recruitment industry, I joined Robert Walters. I chose Robert Walters because I knew the brand and respected what it stood for - professionalism, integrity, and a strong presence in the market. I wanted to be part of something bigger, something that aligned with the values I believed in. 

Since then, my career at Robert Walters has evolved in ways I never imagined. I started in recruitment and worked my way up to become Managing Director of the Queensland business. From there, I took on a global role as Head of Customer Experience, I then moved into the Global Head of Commercial. Today, I’m proud to be the Global Head of Talent Advisory - our newest service line and a space that’s full of innovation, potential, and value for our clients.

What’s allowed me to grow in so many different directions is the culture of opportunity here. I’ve always been encouraged to step outside of my comfort zone. When I’ve put my hand up for something new, no one has said no.

That trust from peers, leaders, and teams has given me the freedom to test myself, to learn, and to lead in ways that have shaped my career and my confidence.
 

One of the things I love most about working here is the chance to connect with people all over the world. Leading global teams means navigating cultural differences - but it also means learning what unites us. That shared sense of purpose, collaboration, and ambition is something truly unique.

Over the past 22 years, I’ve truly grown up at Robert Walters. I got married, had two fabulous children - one of whom is now about to finish school, which really puts the length of my journey into perspective. Along the way, I’ve had the opportunity to work across international markets and grow in ways I never expected. Being in a global role has taught me to appreciate the cultural differences that shape how we work, while also showing me just how much those differences bring us together.

It’s not just a job; it’s been a foundation for both my professional and personal life, and Robert Walters holds a very special place in my heart.
 

Of course, balancing a global role with family life has its challenges. My teams are spread across time zones, and my days can be long. But the business has never asked me to do anything unreasonable. The responsibility lies with me to protect my time, and I’ve always felt supported in doing that.

For anyone considering a career at Robert Walters, my advice is simple: don’t limit yourself. Don’t assume that your current role, your location, or your original plan defines your future. This is a business full of opportunity. If you’re willing to look for it, work for it, and be open to change, then the possibilities are endless. There’s a place here for everyone who wants to grow, explore, and thrive.

Like Sinead, if you’re ready to take your career to the next level, we’d love to hear from you. Click here to learn more.