Carina Leonard, Head of HR at ICS Medical, brings a wealth of experience and understanding of the human resources landscape. In this interview, Carina shares her insights on her personal journey in the field, key qualities she looks out for during recruitment, how ICS Medical Devices ensures a positive and inclusive work culture, and finally gives some advice she would give to someone aspiring to enter the HR field.
Can you share a bit about your career journey and what led you to your current role as the Head of HR at ICS Medical Devices?
I began my career at a mid-sized medical device manufacturing company where I developed my skills in recruitment, employee relations, and performance management. This company was acquired by a large multi-national and the role gave me a solid foundation in the practical aspects of HR and an appreciation for how HR practices can significantly impact organisational culture and employee satisfaction. I was very lucky to have had an amazing mentor in those first few years and she encouraged and supported me to complete my master’s degree in Employment Law.
Subsequently, I spent three years at an independent, Irish-owned financial services company. During this time, I established the HR function and experienced both the highs and lows of the financial services sector, having joined during the Celtic tiger and departed two years into the recession.
Next, I went back to my roots, another large multinational medical device manufacturing company where I provided HR Business support and led global employee engagement initiatives to improve employee engagement and retention. This period was crucial in developing my strategic thinking and understanding the complexities of HR in a global context. Working with diverse teams across different geographies broadened my perspective and enhanced my ability to handle cross-cultural HR issues.
Prior to joining ICS Medical Devices, I spent three years with a global leader in consumer product dispensing solutions and innovative packaging for the beauty, personal care, and home markets. This period proved to be the most challenging of my career.
Amidst the onset of COVID-19, I navigated the complexities of managing the HR & Health and Safety Function during a global pandemic and sadly, I had to manage the closure of the site when the company announced they were relocating their operations to France. During all that I discovered I was pregnant! I was incredibly fortunate to receive exceptional support from the leadership team at Aptar France and my own team at Aptar Ballinasloe during this challenging period.
These cumulative experiences led me to my current role as the Head of Human Resources at ICS Medical Devices almost 3 years ago. Here, I oversee all HR functions, including talent acquisition, employee development & engagement, and organisational development.
I was deeply involved in shaping the company’s HR policies from the ground up, which included everything from designing onboarding processes to implementing HR software systems. This experience underscored the importance of aligning HR strategies with business goals and demonstrated the critical role HR plays in driving organisational success.
What are the key qualities and skills you look for when hiring new team members for ICS?
When hiring new team members, we prioritise qualities and skills essential for thriving in a fast-paced, innovative environment. Key attributes include adaptability, strong problem-solving skills, a passion for innovation, resilience, persistence, teamwork, and an entrepreneurial mindset.
Technical skills are also crucial, such as expertise in biomedical and manufacturing engineering, project management, regulatory knowledge, R&D capabilities, data analysis, and effective communication.
Cultural fit is also important; candidates should align with our company values. As we work with a lot of start-ups, it can be helpful to have a start-up mentality and be comfortable with some level of ambiguity, and a willingness to go above and beyond typical job responsibilities.
Focusing on these qualities helps us build a team capable of driving innovation, overcoming challenges, and succeeding in a competitive, regulated industry.
How does ICS Medical ensure a positive and inclusive work culture?
At ICS Medical, we have a diverse team of 115 employees representing 17 different nationalities, bringing together a wide range of perspectives and experiences.
We create and maintain a positive and inclusive work culture at ICS Medical by having strategies that foster respect, diversity, and collaboration. We define and communicate clear mission statements and core values emphasising diversity and inclusion, with leadership demonstrating commitment through their actions and decisions.
We promote Diversity and Inclusion through effective policies, diversity training, and leadership development and open communication is encouraged via safe channels for feedback and active listening by leaders.
We foster a sense of belonging with inclusive events and recognise inclusive behaviours through reward programs.
Fairness and equity are ensured with equal opportunities, transparent policies, and inclusive leadership and support for work-life balance is provided through flexible work arrangements and wellness programs.
What advice would you give to someone aspiring to enter the HR field?
Entering the HR field can be incredibly rewarding, as HR professionals are vital in shaping an organization’s culture and success. For someone aspiring to enter HR, I’d recommend starting with a strong educational foundation. Getting a degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, Psychology, or a related field is essential, and pursuing CIPD accreditation can significantly enhance your credibility and knowledge.
Gaining practical experience is also crucial. Internships or entry-level positions in HR provide invaluable real-world exposure. Volunteering in HR roles for non-profits can also offer practical experience and networking opportunities.
Developing key skills is another important step. Focus on honing your communication, interpersonal, organisational, and problem-solving abilities. Staying updated on HR trends is vital, so engage in continuous learning and professional development. Joining HR professional organisations, and attending industry conferences and workshops can provide valuable insights, mentorship, and career opportunities.
-Carina Leonard, Head of Human Resources.