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With over seven years at Access and a career spanning from hands-on hospitality to software project management, Ronan Cahalane is known for his positivity, reliability and passion for helping others thrive, both through technology and his dedication to wellbeing.
How do you think your team would describe you?
I like to think people would say I am happy, approachable and reliable. Turning the mirror on yourself is not easy, but how you interact with others paints a clear picture of your principles.
What has been your biggest professional challenge in the last year?
Gaining knowledge on new products, I moved from one software product to another and while it is a challenge in the beginning, the satisfaction of gaining that knowledge outweighs any challenge. I am a believer that if we are not challenging ourselves, we are not growing.
How has your work, your role or your industry changed since the start of your career?
I began working in the hospitality industry in the 1990’s and pivoted to software in the last decade. That was a massive change for me but one I embraced and consider a great achievement. Having worked in hospitality for so long gives me a unique opportunity in Access because I can see exactly how our incredible products not only make the hospitality industry more profitable and efficient but better in general, reducing time spent on tasks and allowing our customers to focus on their guests!
What’s your favourite memory working with Access?
It's hard to pick one moment but what I always love is learning something new. Access is amazing at providing opportunities to surprise yourself, whether it's training and learning something new or interacting with our amazing colleagues around the globe, it's like a collection of great moments.
What do you think it takes to be successful at Access?
I think success in Access is about personal goals and achievements. Access is incredible at providing the knowledge and opportunities to develop but the willingness to push yourself and seize those opportunities is the key to success.
How do you personally prioritise your wellbeing, and what advice would you give to colleagues looking to do the same?
As a Wellbeing Champion and Mental Health First Aider, I have a unique perspective on how Access looks out for our people. It is easy to feel overwhelmed and not remember to focus on yourself. If I ever feel like that I like to just take a moment and breathe, think about family and friends.
We don’t all share the same challenges in our lives and from time to time we all have personal challenges. My key piece of advice is to talk to someone, if not family then a colleague or reach out to our wellbeing team. Talking to someone who cares how you are will always help.
What sparked your passion for mental health and supporting others?
I have had moments in my life, as have most of us, that felt almost unsurmountable. Experiences that make you feel turned upside down. Having someone I could turn to talk to and help put things in perspective always helped. Nobody can fix everything overnight but looking after your mental health is about taking small steps all the time. Access enables the Wellbeing team to be there when one of our colleagues needs help with taking one of those steps. I am grateful to be part of it.
Is there any part of your experience with Access or More generally in your career that you would like to highlight or discuss in more detail as part of the Employee Spotlight series?
One of my biggest takeaways from time with Access is that the more you engage and reach out to new people in the company the quicker you will feel part of the bigger picture. It is far too easy these days to become insular. We are a big company with great people from all over the world, reach out, say hello and ask questions.