Introduction to Carol
With a career defined by dynamic leadership and a results-driven mindset, Carol has consistently delivered excellence across diverse sectors including Human Resources Retail and Learning and Development. Known for a sharp strategic vision and the ability to steer teams through change, Carol brings a high level of organisational acumen and a calm command under pressure.
Whether leading cross-functional teams or managing complex solo projects, Carol thrives in fast-paced environments, always aligning business operations with evolving market demands. A seasoned member of senior management, she excels in developing impactful strategies, communicating with clarity, and implementing solutions that drive sustained success.
Career Background
Carol is a passionate and resilient HR leader whose career journey began with uncertainty but quickly evolved into a story of rapid growth and reinvention. After leaving school unsure of what direction to take—changing college courses four times in the first month she made a bold decision to join a retail brand newly launched in Ireland. Within just a year, she was promoted to supervisor, and by the age of 20, was managing the flagship store in Ireland, demonstrating a natural talent for leadership and operational excellence.
Her career continued to accelerate as she joined another international brand launching in Ireland, opening its first store in Dundrum Shopping Centre. Her drive and determination led to further promotions, including managing the Grafton Street flagship and overseeing multiple stores as a cluster manager. When the company went into liquidation after seven years, Carol faced a pivotal moment—choosing to pivot her career and channel her experience into Human Resources.
Since then, she has built a thriving HR career, holding senior roles across retail, manufacturing, and pharmacy sectors. Today, as Group HR Manager in Applegreen, she leads across strategic HR initiatives whilst supporting the Group function. With a strong track record in employee relations, training, and organisational change, she brings a unique blend of operational insight and people-first leadership. Her career is a testament to how adaptability, curiosity, and a willingness to evolve can redefine traditional career progression—and inspire others to do the same.
Applegreen
This year, in Applegreen we are commencing a project which will craft clear career pathways within our corporate business. This project will provide a structured roadmap for progression through our support functions, helping colleagues to understand the steps and skills required to advance their careers either vertically or laterally to enhance their experience within Applegreen.
Conclusion
Carol truly believes embracing a squiggly career path full of twists, turns, and bold decisions can lead to meaningful success and personal fulfilment. I didn’t follow a straight path—I followed my instincts. Every twist in my career taught me something new, and it’s those unexpected turns that shaped the leader I am today. A squiggly career isn’t a setback; it’s a strength.
Unlike the traditional, linear career ladder many of us envision step-by-step progressions toward a clear end goal a squiggly career path is dynamic and non-linear. It reflects the reality that careers often take unexpected turns, involve pivots across industries or roles, and are shaped by personal growth, changing interests, and opportunities. This visual shows the contrast between the structured plan I once had and the much more winding (and enriching) path my career has actually taken.
