Career Focus: Maeve McGinn Tyndall National Institute

Maeve McGinn is the People and Culture Programme Manager at Tyndall National Institute.

Today she shares her inspiring career journey at Tyndall and describes how the support she received has enabled her to fulfil her potential.

What is your current role?

I am the People and Culture Programme Manager here at Tyndall. My role is to implement a programme of initiatives for change, which will improve the overall experience for staff and students at Tyndall. Working with the People and Culture working group, we take the feedback from staff surveys and other groups in Tyndall and identify priority actions to progress.

What path led you here?

During my time in Tyndall I have moved roles and departments multiple times so have experience and knowledge of how things can be across both operations and research environments. When the opportunity arose to work in People and Culture, I felt well placed to put that knowledge to work, and use my varied background to create real, positive change in Tyndall.

I have a keen interest in EDI and the area of neurodiversity and with those important values close to my heart, it was important to take the opportunity to get involved.

Did you have a role model who influenced your career choice?

I have had a number of strong influences in my life that have impacted my career choices. I am very lucky to have a supportive family, who have always encouraged me to strive for my goals. I have also been incredibly lucky to meet some wonderful people during my time here in Tyndall, who mentored me and helped me choose my next steps.

How has working at Tyndall enabled you to fulfil your potential?

While I had other jobs before I began working at Tyndall, it is safe to say I built my career here. It has taken time, but I have come a long way from where I first started. This was enabled by colleagues (I should really say friends!) who encouraged and believed in me. In addition to this, my educational goals have always been supported here – I have completed a business degree and received project management certification – and that has undoubtedly helped my career progression and enabled me to fulfil my potential.

What advice would you give your younger self?

Anything and everything is possible. Surround yourself with positive people who want the best for you and always give you support and encouragement – and be that person for them too.