2008-2012: HR coordinator, Fónua
Wallace’s first job was at telecommunications equipment company Fónua. She was surprised at how quickly she took to the role: “Originally, I applied for the role thinking I’d stay six to nine months and then go travelling. That never happened. I realised this was the field I wanted to work in and ended up completing my degree in HRM part-time while I was here.”
Wallace’s four years at the company gave her "a great grounding" in HR systems, processes, policies, new hire onboarding, benefits, payroll, L&D and recruitment.
2012-2013: HR advisor, Yahoo!
Following her time at Fónua, Wallace wanted to gain some international experience.
She says: “I joined Yahoo working in HR Shared Services, supporting employees in the EMEA region with a focus on the UK, Norway and Hungary. Here, I got my first exposure to M&A and global mobility, and I was the HR programmes coordinator for the EMEA region.”
Read more: The new path to high-level HR, Part 1
2013-2022: Various roles, Etsy
Wallace joined Etsy as the first non-US HR hire, supporting leaders and employees across Etsy’s international markets.
“I held various roles, starting as senior HR specialist before moving into HR business partner roles, ultimately supporting various C-suite members and their leadership teams before making a move into talent programmes leading Etsy's performance management, compensation and feedback processes,” she says.
2022-now: Head of people, LearnUpon
Wallace calls joining LearnUpon "a true career highlight".
She adds: “The people I work with every day are amazing: super smart and great fun. I have a wonderful team around me and together we’ve accomplished a lot in two years; from implementing a global competency framework, to revamping our performance management processes, to supporting sustainable headcount growth.”
1. Feel the fear and do it anyway
“Changing roles and trying new things is scary; believe in yourself and take the leap. Best case scenario: it works out even better than you’d hoped. Worst case? At least you tried, and hopefully you learnt something along the way.”
2. Ask for help
“Whether it's from a team member, peer or friend, don't be afraid to ask for other perspectives and opinions as it will ultimately lead to a better result. One of the most valuable resources I have is a group of CPOs who are always available to each other for guidance and support when needed.”
3. Broaden your skill set
“Take a course in finance, spend time understanding different areas of the business, or consider a lateral move into a new area. Promotions are a very tangible way of marking your success, but if you take the opportunity to broaden your skillset rather than just moving up a level, you’ll find you’re much more ready when the right thing comes along.”
