In our second HR insight series, we speak to Joe Torpey, Partner at Futurus. 
Our HR series aims to provide unique insights of working and becoming an HR professional in Ireland by getting advice from exceptional employers and organisations.

Joe began his HR career in the IT sector and has over 30 years of HR experience having worked across most of the key functions of HR.  Joe has worked with senior leadership teams both in Europe and the Middle East and is currently the Partner responsible for managing the SME HR and People Advisory practice within Futurus a HR and OCM consultancy practice based in Ireland.
Joe holds an MSc in Organisational Behaviour from Trinity College.

What attracted you to HR?

I have always enjoyed working with people and teams and have a curiosity about human behaviour, especially within the work context. I was lucky to be given a junior role in HR with Intel and spent 23 years working across the various HR functions in Ireland and eventually in Europe and the Middle East. Over the years always, I had a passion for working with people and organisations especially on employee relations challenges and have a keen interest in the study of organisational justice.

I had a passion for working with people and organisations especially on employee relations challenges and have a keen interest in the study of organisational justice.

How did you progress your career?

I have always believed that career progression is a combination of continuously seeking development opportunities and some good luck! There are always opportunities to progress if you are prepared to push yourself out of your comfort zone and tackle the important issues that are in the organisation you work with.

What’s the most valuable piece of advice you have been given throughout your career?

I have been fortunate to have worked in companies where I encountered some talented people across multiple professions. The people who made the greatest positive difference in my view were those who challenged the status quo and always embraced change positively. In terms of us HR people, I have learned that we should always remain curious about why people behave in different ways within organisations and always push ourselves to truly understand the different perspectives people have especially during times of conflict or change.

What advice would you give to your 18year old self?

Try harder to strike the right balance between your career and your broader life. All the plans you make will change and luck will always play a part in your progression. Take care of your health as its your greatest gift.

Can you give us 1 fun fact about yourself?

I have a Pug called Walter and we both share an aversion to regular exercise!

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