Clíodhna Lynch, Financial Services Manager, tells us why she decided to move from Ireland to London

1) Clíodhna, you relocated from Ireland to London in 2022, what inspired you to make the move?

I’ve always had an interest in finance, and I studied commerce & finance in Cork University. I worked at Deloitte for six months and liked it, but I knew audit wasn’t for me because I wasn’t playing to my strengths, one being my people skills. I really enjoy chatting to people and I really enjoy finance, so what better place to be than in recruitment in London - chatting to lots of finance professionals throughout the day in one of the most vibrant financial districts in the world!

2) You joined Marks Sattin in 2022 as a Principal Consultant, how did you first hear about the role and what made you want to join us?

I was working in Ireland at the time and when I began considering a move to London, Marks Sattin appeared to have some excellent networks in place. I was aware of their Irish entity, and when a head-hunter flagged the fund finance division may be hiring, I was very glad to begin conversations.

3) What has been your biggest learning from your first year working at Marks Sattin?

I have learned so much! – firstly about the fund market in London, the senior leadership here have decades of experience working with some of the finest professionals within the funds industry in London. It has also been great to see some of the operational factors involved in running a successful, globally recognised recruitment firm.

4) What do you bring to the table as a member of our leadership team in London?

I enjoy bringing energy and a new perspective as we look to new growth opportunities. I endeavour to be a guide for the consultants who need help in any development areas, or need to soundboard any scenarios they encounter. 

 5) What are your best memories with Marks Sattin so far?

Best memories are definitely the people – there are some amazing people in terms of ability, expertise and more importantly general friendliness.

 6) How have you found working in a traditionally male dominated industry, and have you noticed any shifts throughout your career so far?

In my personal experience so far, once you work hard and represent yourself and your company well, there are very little references to your gender and any references should not be tolerated if they do happen. Over the past few years there has been significant light shone on this topic. This has moved everyone to be far more aware of each other’s individuality, and has proved the majority of people are active and keen to make as much progress in this area as possible. Marks Sattin and the clients we work with have never made me feel like my gender was an issue, and we partner with our clients whose prime focus is equality. 

7) Do you have any advice specifically for women considering a career in recruitment?

Do it – it’s great craic! In seriousness

Women tend to perform fantastically in this field as many have a social warmth that naturally puts people at ease and are therefore well placed to assist people with their career goals. If there are any issues or concerns, the industry has put a spotlight on it, and everyone is aware and working on it together, so join the movement!

8) Where do you want your recruitment career to take you?

I also really enjoy coaching junior finance professionals and watching them grow through the ranks, possibly to CFO level!

I am very interested in economics, I am learning so much from my role and someday I would love to be the go-to person for European fund market knowledge, be it within the recruitment field, or perhaps even advising educational institutions, lobby groups or even the government on labour requirements, trends, attracting foreign investment etc.

If you are interested in learning more about our company culture, visit our Join Our Team hub, or read more stories directly from our people here.