Muhammad completed the CIPD accredited MA in Human Resource Management in 2024. He had experience working within HR in India before relocating to Ireland and is now working with HRIS and data Support in Brown Thomas Arnotts.
Tell us a little bit about yourself and your background?
I am originally from India and moved to Ireland in 2023 to pursue a Master’s in Human Resource Management at the National College of Ireland. I have a background in both Human Resources and Psychology, and I currently work as an HRIS and Data Support professional at Brown Thomas Arnotts, supporting HR systems, employee data management, reporting, and people processes.
What made you choose Ireland as a place you wanted to work?
Ireland stood out to me because of its strong reputation for work life balance, welcoming culture, and thriving multinational business environment. It also offers excellent opportunities for professional growth, particularly within the HR field, making it an ideal place to build my career.
What was your most memorable experience from your time at NCI?
One of my most memorable experiences was collaborating with classmates from diverse cultural and professional backgrounds. The supportive learning environment and practical approach to education helped me grow both professionally and personally while building lasting connections.
How did you hear about your role?
I first came across an opportunity at Brown Thomas Arnotts for an Online Support role through the NCI Careers Portal. After joining the company, I progressed internally through several roles, moving from Online Support to HR Support, then L&D Administrator, and most recently to my current position as HRIS and Data Support. That journey has been a great example of how internal development opportunities can help accelerate career growth.
What did the recruitment and selection process involve and how did you prepare for it?
The recruitment process involved submitting an application, attending interviews, and answering competency based questions. I prepared by researching the company, understanding the role requirements, and practising interview questions to ensure I could clearly demonstrate my skills and experience.
Can you describe the visa process you underwent?
I initially came to Ireland on a student visa and, after completing my Master’s degree, transitioned to a Stamp 1G visa. This has allowed me to work full time, gain valuable professional experience, and continue developing my career in Ireland.
What is a typical day like in your current role?
A typical day involves reporting, data analysis, people data management, and payroll related activities. It is a fast paced and dynamic role that requires attention to detail and problem solving, which makes every day both challenging and rewarding.
What do you like most about working in your current role or profession?
What I enjoy most is working with data and using it to improve processes and support better decision making. I find it exciting to identify efficiencies, automate workflows, and contribute to improvements that create a smoother experience for both employees and the business.
What has been the most challenging part of your graduate journey?
The most challenging aspect was securing my first professional role in a new country while adapting to a different job market. It required resilience, persistence, and a commitment to continuously learning and developing new skills.
What are your Top 3 tips for current students and graduates who are looking to enter the job market in Ireland?
1. Tailor your CV and applications to each role rather than using a generic version.
2. Build your professional network through LinkedIn, career events, and industry connections.
3. Stay persistent and open minded. Every role and experience can help you build valuable skills and open doors to future opportunities.