My name is Kieran and I’m the newest recruit here at ThoughtSpark. I recently started my exciting journey as an Account Executive.
A few interesting positions helped me to develop skills for the world of work. After finishing my history degree at the University of Sussex, I travelled to Brisbane, Australia to start a new role working in a boarding school. Living on the other side of the world without family or friends was a daunting experience – but one that certainly helped me become more independent and adventurous. The school holidays gave me ample opportunity to travel, and I was able to see much of Australia, New Zealand, and Japan during my breaks. I made lifelong friends and lasting connections with fellow staff, students, and many characterful Australians. Unfortunately, my time abroad was curtailed by the pandemic, forcing me to fly home earlier than I would have liked.
The pandemic brought new challenges to my job hunt, but I picked up a fascinating role with the Office of National Statistics working on Census 2021. My task was to engage with the local community to try to increase response rates to the Census – something we achieved successfully as a team, generating a 98.5% completion rate in our local area. Following this, I found a role as a hockey coach working for my local club. They wanted someone to design and execute a youth outreach programme to teach the basics to primary school children and encourage them to join the club full time. I had great fun in this role; it helped me develop my confidence as a leader as well as the ability to think on my feet.
When the schools programme finished in November 2021, I began searching for full time work again.
After struggling through numerous applications, I eventually came across the role here at ThoughtSpark advertised through the government’s Kickstart scheme aiming to get young people back into work. The role immediately piqued my interest and I quickly sent off an application. Despite the best efforts of a COVID diagnosis, I was able to make a good impression during my interview, was offered the role and have enjoyed every moment since! I wanted to turn my love of writing and research into a career, and working at ThoughtSpark allows me to use these skills in a new environment where my natural sociability can also shine through and help develop connections.
Outside of work I am a keen sportsman and still play for Berkhamsted Hockey Club every Saturday. I also play six-a-side football, frequent the gym, and like to ski – when pandemics allow! I love to travel; having a father who works for an airline has allowed me to travel to over twenty-five countries so far, and I’m looking forward to getting back on a plane soon.
Get to know our new Account Executive Kieran here. If you’re interested in working with or at ThoughtSpark, feel free to drop us a line here or connect with us on LinkedIn.
