Role: Communications Manager
Company: Black Fox Solutions / Reactive Recruitment
Track Record:
What does your job entail?
I am responsible for all internal and external communication for Black Fox Solutions and Reactive Recruitment, and ensure that company objectives and strategy are delivered upon. My job includes elements of Marketing, strategic communications planning, Business Development, dealing with the media and promoting both Brands effectively.
Is it 9-5?
Not even close, I’m usually up and around from 6:30 planning out my day and what I need to achieve for each company. During the day I split my time handling projects for both companies and trying to ensure that we improve every day. Because of the amount of time I spend on the phone or computer it can be hard to switch off so it’s not unusual for me to be drafting something or replying to emails at 9 or 10 at night. Luckily this style of working suits me and I thrive on the variety my job gives me.
How did you get into this line of work?
Nobody dreams of working in the Recruitment industry, like many others I stumbled into it. I actually had applied for another job through Black Fox Solutions and after seeing my CV I was contacted about a job as a Recruitment Consultant.
Outline your career to date?
I have a background in English and have done some writing, but didn’t really follow that path after University. I found myself working in Business Development style roles before being invited to interview with Black Fox Solutions. After meeting with the Director and hearing about the role and the plans for the company I knew it would be the right place for me – luckily they felt the same. After working as a Recruitment Consultant I was approached by the Director to fill the Communications Manager role.
What qualities are required for your job – personal and professional?
I think you need to be driven to do this job effectively, it’s very much the type of job that you can make as big or as little as you want. Obviously communication skills are a big factor but I think that the most important tools you need are strong organisational skills and a clear goal and strategy of what you want to achieve. It’s very easy to be a busy fool and achieve little while always being active.
What are the biggest challenges and rewards of your work?
The biggest challenge is probably time management and staying on top of everything which is where having strong organisation skills comes in.
Obviously the financial element is a big reward but I find I’m a lot more motivated by achieving goals that I’ve set out to do – sadly I’m not great at enjoying these moments and quickly come up with new objectives to hit.
What do you like to do in your spare time?
I don’t have many hobbies to be honest. When I’m not working I’ll usually be reading something or having a drink with friends. I’ve got a great girlfriend and my best evenings are usually spent chatting to her and watching crap TV.
Tell us an interesting fact about yourself.
I was actually a fairly decent athlete and have a few All-Ireland medals for cross-country and track & field.
Who has inspired you most in your life?
I don’t have any heroes really, but I’m a big fan of Hemmingway and Warren Buffett mainly for their outlooks on life more than anything.