Kevin tells us about his role as Deputy Head of Mission in the Consulate of Ireland in Sydney and how working in the Diplomatic Service can lead to a challenging and rewarding career.
Please tell us a little bit about your role.
As the Deputy Head of Mission at the Consulate of Ireland in Sydney, I assist in overseeing the consulate's operations, represent Ireland in diplomatic matters, and work to strengthen bilateral relations between Ireland and Australia. My time is spread across consular assistance, support for the Irish community, cultural diplomacy, political reporting, trade and investment and various admin such as accounts, budgets, HR, and office management. It is a diverse and challenging role but it is also an enjoyable and rewarding role.
What were your reasons for applying for your role?
I studied Accounting and Finance in college. I worked in an accountancy firm for 6 months but I’ve always had an interest in politics, world affairs and public service. The opportunity to represent Ireland abroad and experience life and work in different countries greatly appealed to me. Representing Ireland abroad on a range of different issues has been an immense pleasure.
What do you value most about your job?
I value the ability to represent my country on an international stage and to make a positive impact on the lives of Irish citizens abroad. The role allows me to engage in meaningful diplomatic work, from crisis management to cultural promotion, and to see first-hand the benefits of international cooperation.
What are some of the benefits and supports available to you?
The Department offers a wide range of supports. There are training courses available on a variety of topics, along with opportunities to upskill in relevant areas. Language courses are provided for the language of your host country, which is incredibly valuable. Moving from country to country can be demanding, but the Department offers substantial support to you and your family throughout the entire process.
What opportunities has this role provided for you?
The opportunity to live and work abroad has been an amazing experience. Prior to Sydney I served as the Deputy Head of Mission at our Embassy in Budapest for four years. This role has provided numerous opportunities in both Budapest and Sydney to engage with high-level government officials, business leaders, and community representatives. It has allowed me to organise and participate in significant cultural and economic events, broaden my professional network, and gain a deeper understanding of international diplomacy and bilateral relations.
What has surprised you since starting this role?
One surprising aspect has been the wide scope of work involved in each position I've held. You are never assigned to just one specific area, which means your responsibilities can vary greatly from day-to-day. No two days are the same when you are on a posting abroad. Urgent matters, especially consular assistance requests, can arise at any time. While it can be challenging to manage competing demands, I enjoy the unpredictable nature of the role.
What aspect of the role do you particularly enjoy?
There are many aspects of the role which I enjoy, mainly, engaging with the local community, fostering bilateral relations, promoting cultural exchange, and addressing the needs of Irish citizens abroad. I particularly enjoy engaging with the local community and organising events that promote Irish culture. Whether it's St. Patrick's Day celebrations, cultural exhibitions, or trade missions, these activities allow me to connect with people and showcase the richness of Irish heritage.
Would you recommend a career in the public sector and why?
Yes, certainly. Over the last few years, I’ve had the opportunity to represent Ireland at numerous significant events in both Budapest and Sydney. These unique and enriching experiences are something I wouldn't have encountered outside of this Department. The Department also supports personal development through various training courses and opportunities to work in different areas. While it is a challenging career, it is one that I truly enjoy. I would highly recommend a career in the Department of Foreign Affairs.