St Patrick’s Day: An Interview with Salt Director, Veronica O’Riordan
Can you tell us a little bit about your background and your Irish roots?
I grew up in a small rural town in southeast Ireland. My dad was a tailor and my mum ran the house – a very humble and happy home. There was never a dull moment – with friends, neighbours and cousins visiting all the time. Our home was a constant hive of activity, and a warm welcome was offered to everyone who knocked on our door.
I think the busy, always-on-the-go environment I grew up in plays a big part in why I enjoy recruitment so much. The fast pace and the constant variety of characters I work with on a day-to-day basis, means no two days are the same. I love talking to different people every day, and hearing their stories is what keeps my job interesting. Helping fill critical healthcare vacancies in rural communities, makes this an incredibly satisfying role.
What makes Australia such a great match for Irish people?
Many of the medical professionals we’ve placed since starting Salt have Irish roots – which I love! Australia is a top destination for Irish emigrants for many reasons. We feel it’s a home away from home for us. Most cities have thriving Irish communities, so you never feel alone. Equally as important, is how warmly we have been embraced by the Australian people. There’s a natural ease between us. Culturally, we are very similar – warm, down-to-earth and hardworking. Plus of course, we also know how to enjoy ourselves! Australia offers an incredibly diverse range of natural environments which really appeals to the wanderlust nature of the Irish.
For medical professionals, working in the Australian healthcare system is far less demanding and far better resourced than in Ireland. Additionally, the reward is much higher.
If you were, to sum up what being Irish means to you, what would it be?
Down-to-earth, hardworking, collegial – and able to have a laugh
Any last words before you head off to celebrate St Paddy’s Day?
Just that I think I speak for every Irish person in Australia when I say that I’m incredibly grateful to have been afforded the chance of a wonderful life in Australia – and for this, we say thank you! Also, if you’re in Sydney on the big day, pop into the Gaelic Club in Surry Hills. We’ll be there from 2pm onward and would love to see you.
Huge thank you to Veronica for sharing her thoughts with us! You can connect with Veronica on LinkedIn here, or if you’re on the hunt for the perfect role and want to join the growing community of Irish ex-pats in Australia, drop us a line!
