Linda Conway, CIPD

To mark our 75th Anniversary, we are shining a light on some NCI alumni to showcase the amazing talent the College has produced throughout the years.

Alumni Spotlight: Linda Conway

CIPD Diploma in Professional Human Resource Practice

Head of Human Resources, Costa Coffee ROI & NI

About Linda

Linda Conway returned to education at National College of Ireland after building an accomplished career in management and people leadership across a range of industries.

Having spent 15 years with a leading fashion and beauty company, including 11 years as an Area Manager overseeing a portfolio of businesses and more than 200 employees, Linda had developed extensive practical experience in people management, employee relations and organisational leadership. However, she recognised that obtaining a formal qualification would help her take the next step in her career.

After researching a range of options, Linda chose to study the CIPD Diploma in Professional Human Resource Practice at NCI. The College's reputation, CIPD accreditation and flexible online delivery model made it the ideal choice, allowing her to balance study alongside professional and personal commitments.

"I decided it was time to return to education and gain the accredited qualification I fervently desired."

Returning to education as a mature student presented new challenges, particularly adapting to academic writing after many years away from formal study. However, with the support of lecturers and fellow students, Linda quickly developed confidence and found herself immersed in a rewarding learning experience.

Investing in the Future

Throughout her studies, Linda worked as a Learning and Development Specialist within an SaaS organisation, where she led onboarding initiatives and contributed to talent development programmes. The knowledge and practical skills gained through the CIPD programme helped her create more effective learning experiences and make a meaningful impact within the organisation.

Linda particularly enjoyed the practical aspects of the course, including assignments focused on employee relations, disciplinary procedures and negotiations between management and trade unions. These real-world applications allowed her to directly connect theory with professional practice.

Following graduation, Linda achieved the goal that had inspired her return to education by securing a HR Manager position. Since then, she has continued to progress her career, holding HR leadership roles before joining Costa Coffee ROI & NI. Today, she serves as Head of Human Resources, leading people strategy, employee relations, employment law and management capability across Costa Coffee's operations in the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland, with additional responsibility for KFC operations in Ireland.

She has also continued her professional development with Associate Membership of CIPD, further strengthening her expertise as a people leader. She shares advice for anyone considering joining a CIPD programme at NCI:

"Fully embrace the learning experience, engage, build a network of fellow students for support, stay committed to the coursework and the outcome will be so rewarding."

Reflecting on her journey, Linda's story demonstrates the value of lifelong learning and shows that it is never too late to invest in yourself, develop new skills and create new opportunities for career growth and leadership. 

Linda originally shared her CIPD graduate story for the NCI Blog.

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