Articles / Staff Stories

Adrian Jackson shares his Cracking Career Journey

16 September 2022

Adrian Jackson shares his Cracking Career Journey

We strive to create a working environment where our people feel supported and motivated to be their best and do their best every day.

It’s important for our people to feel a sense of belonging when working with us and to be proud of the achievements they deliver to our customers, people, and the business. We believe that working at O’Brien® isn’t just a job, it’s a career.

We recently caught up with acting Head of Safety,  Adrian Jackson, to hear more about his experience working with us and how he is making the most of his career with O’Brien®.

So, what’s it like working at O’Brien®?

No two days are the same! It’s fast paced, with plenty of learning opportunities and lots of fun! Adrian reflected over the last 4 years in his role at O’Brien® and feels, “my role has changed constantly over time with each challenge the business has faced, from the pandemic to natural disasters, but with that comes the opportunity for problem solving so everyone can be at their best and continue doing what they need to do.” For Adrian, what he enjoys most about his work, is the people and the opportunity to work together as a team through the many challenges that arise. Getting exposure across the whole business has also allowed him to build positive relationships at all levels, provide meaningful support when it is most needed and to overcome complex challenges by adopting the best thinking available no matter where or who it comes from.

What Career Opportunities have you had access to? 

Having been with O’Brien® for 4 years, Adrian joined as a Head of Human Resources (HR) – Operations and earlier this year, began a secondment for the role of Head of Safety, Wellbeing & Sustainability, “I really appreciated the opportunity to try something different”. Adrian believes in the power of driving your own career, believing there’s benefits in learning new skills by taking sideward career steps; “it’s about putting your hand up and giving it a go because you’ll get out what you put in”.

The most rewarding experience for Adrian during his career has been the progress that’s been made by his teams, having one of his high performing team members being seconded into his Head of Human Resources role as a development opportunity whilst he’s being seconded to the Head of Safety role.  Overall, he believes “the HR Operations team is very well regarded and have worked hard to achieve this by supporting the business, I have great pride in what we’ve all given and believe it will continue successfully into the future”.

What’s the one thing you love about working with us? 

Adrian simply puts that it that it’s “incredible to be working alongside such an talented bunch of professional and passionate people”. Working within the People and Leadership team across both the Human Resources Operations team and the Safety and Wellbeing Team, Adrian has had the opportunity to collaborate, connect and learn from his colleagues. Adrian believes there is a genuine friendliness across the business, as people choose to support one another, making a real difference to the working environment. “Everyone exhibits themselves in alignment with our DNA. They ‘live it’ on a daily basis, and you can see this in how people conduct themselves. They truly care.”, says Adrian.

What are your passions outside of work?

When he’s not at work, Adrian enjoys getting out for adventures in his four-wheel drive and spending time with his family!

We appreciate Adrian’s contributions to O’Brien® and wish him all the best as he continues his secondment role.

Want to start a career with opportunities for growth, team members to support you throughout your journey and great work-life balance? At O’Brien®, there’s an opportunity to be your best, be great and be inspired. Check out what’s on offer here.