To celebrate International Women’s Day we sat down and interviewed our HR manager Elaine Corrigan 👇
Elaine Corrigan, HR Manager.
I joined KennCo as a HR Generalist and progressed into the role of HR Manager as the company has continued to grow.
I did a degree in Human Resource Management and previously worked in HR in the hospitality sector, so moving into financial services was quite a change, but with such a supportive team I found the transition very smooth.
2.5 years.
It’s really positive to work in an organisation where there is strong female representation across different levels. Seeing women in management and leadership roles creates a supportive environment and shows that progression is achievable.
I’ve always enjoyed working with people and supporting them to succeed in their roles. HR allows you to make a real difference to employees and the organisation, whether that’s through supporting development, improving workplace culture or helping teams perform at their best.
I would describe my leadership style as supportive and approachable. I believe in building strong relationships, listening to people and creating an environment where employees feel comfortable sharing ideas or concerns.
One of the most valuable lessons I’ve learned is the importance of communication and trust. When people feel listened to and supported, it creates a much stronger and more positive workplace.
The people and the culture. It’s a very supportive environment where people work together and genuinely want to see the company and their colleagues succeed.
It’s collaborative, supportive and fast-paced. KennCo is growing, which means there are lots of opportunities to contribute ideas and develop professionally.
There is strong representation of women across the organisation, including in management roles. That visibility, combined with a supportive culture, creates an environment where women can grow, develop and progress in their careers.
Be confident in your abilities and be open to learning. The insurance industry offers a wide range of opportunities and career paths, so being proactive and willing to develop new skills can open many doors.
A big part of my role is supporting managers and employees in identifying development opportunities, whether through training, mentoring or gaining new experiences within their roles.
Strong communication skills, adaptability and a willingness to learn are really important. The industry is constantly evolving, so being open to change and development is key.
It’s an opportunity to recognise and celebrate the achievements of women, while also highlighting the importance of continuing to create equal opportunities in the workplace.
I’ve been fortunate to work with a number of strong and supportive women throughout my career who encouraged me to grow and believe in my abilities. One who stands out is my first HR Manager at the Clayton Hotel Liffey Valley, who mentored me during my first HR internship many years ago and helped spark my passion for the profession.
By creating inclusive environments where everyone has equal opportunities to develop and progress, and by supporting women to take on leadership roles and grow in their careers.
Spending time with my dog, getting out for a walk, and catching up with friends and family.
Don’t be afraid to take opportunities when they arise. Stepping outside your comfort zone is often where the most growth happens.