Career change to HR: Real stories, real advice

About this event

Early career: Part of our early career stream of monthly events for people at the start of their journey in HR, L&D or OD.

Thinking about moving into HR? Hear from people who've successfully made the transition.

Every year, professionals from a wide range of backgrounds make the move into HR and people practice. But knowing where to start, how to position your experience and what employers are really looking for can feel overwhelming.

In this honest and practical panel discussion, you'll hear from CIPD members who successfully transitioned into HR from other professions. They'll share what motivated their move, how they gained experience, how they secured their first HR opportunities and what they wish they'd known at the start.

This is your opportunity to ask questions, learn from people who've recently been in your shoes and gain practical advice to help you take your next step with confidence.

Our panel will discuss:

• Why they chose a career in HR
• How they translated experience from previous careers
• Building credibility when you don't have direct HR experience
• Developing the skills employers value most
• Finding and securing that first HR role
• Common challenges and how to overcome them

You'll leave with:

• Practical advice you can apply immediately
• Greater confidence in your career transition journey
• Insights into different HR career paths
• A clearer understanding of how CIPD can support your professional development
• Connections with fellow members exploring a move into HR

Whether you're studying towards a CIPD qualification, considering a move into the profession, or actively applying for HR roles, this session will provide the guidance, reassurance and inspiration to help you move forward.

Because your previous career isn't a disadvantage, it's part of the value you bring.

Guest speakers profiles:

Suki Sarai, Head of Equity, Diversity & Inclusion

Suki Sarai is Head of Equity, Diversity & Inclusion at L&Q, one of the UK's largest housing associations, where she leads the organisation's EDI strategy and works with colleagues, leaders and networks to create a more inclusive workplace culture. She has over 25 years' experience across retail, customer service, resident engagement and inclusion, including a 18-year career with Gap Inc. before moving into the social housing sector. Suki's career journey demonstrates that there is no single route into HR and people-focused roles. Driven by a passion for fairness, belonging and amplifying underrepresented voices, she brings both professional expertise and lived experience to her work. Suki enjoys sharing honest insights about career change, leadership and building inclusive organisations where people can thrive

Ryan Calvert, Divisional Head of Recruitment

Ryan Calvert is a specialist HR recruiter with more than 13 years’ experience supporting HR professionals and organisations across Northern Ireland, Ireland and the wider UK. Throughout his career, he has advised individuals at every stage of their HR journey - from those taking their first steps into the profession to experienced HR Directors and senior leaders considering their next move.

As Divisional Head of Recruitment, Ryan leads an experienced, multidisciplinary recruitment team, including specialist HR consultants, and oversees senior and executive appointments across the HR market. His extensive network and market knowledge give him valuable insight into how HR careers are evolving, what employers look for and how professionals can successfully position their experience during periods of career transition.

Ryan is an active adviser and ambassador for the CIPD in Northern Ireland. He regularly contributes to industry discussions, webinars and professional development sessions focused on recruitment, career development and HR best practice.

He holds a BSc (Hons) in Psychology, a CIPD Level 5 Diploma in HR Practice and an ILM Level 3 Award in Leadership and Management