Trisha Jordin, team lead at Pramerica, tells us why she chose Ireland as a place to live and work, and how traffic is never a problem.
Where are you from?
I’m from Brisbane in Queensland, Australia’s third-largest city – where it’s always sunny and warm.
How long have you been in Ireland?
More than 13 years now. I arrived in August 2001.
Why did you move here?
I was coming to Ireland to be bridesmaid for my best friend, so I thought that I’d take the opportunity to work in Ireland, and move here for what I expected to be a 6-12-month working holiday!
What work do you do?
I’m proud to lead three teams of talented mainframe programmers. The teams analyse, code, test, implement and support multiple projects for multiple customers at any one time. My role is varied and challenging. I’m responsible for the resourcing, communications, escalations, people management and project management. I also work closely with our customers, so there’s always something new to learn and there’s never a boring day.
How would you describe your working environment?
My team, account, department and company are supportive and inspire me to be the best I can be.
What do you like most about your job?
I love the people I work with. It’s really energising, partnering with such a talented group of people, both here in Ireland and the US. Pramerica really is a great place to work. In fact, we recently celebrated our recognition as one of the top 15 Best Workplaces in Ireland – and top 25 in Europe!
Was it difficult to adjust to living and working in Ireland?
Yes, but only for a short time. I soon found the Letterkenny locals to be incredibly friendly and welcoming. There were also people here from all corners of the globe, so I was never alone. Working in a large town, within a rural environment in Ireland, without the commuter traffic of the city, was a welcome adjustment.
What surprised you about moving to Ireland?
How enchanting and incredibly naturally beautiful Ireland really is. Interestingly, the locals were surprised to meet someone ‘from Australia’ who chose to come here to live!
How does your working life help to make you feel at home here?
Especially in the early years, the majority of my social life was either with my workmates or organised by my workmates, so they became my family.
What do you like most about your adopted home?
The people and their wonderful outlook on life and the value they place on fun and on family.
