Brendan Martin’s career journey is proof that it’s never too late to take the plunge, retrain and follow your passion.
Read how he became an International Trade and Customs Advisor at Northern Ireland Chamber of Commerce and Industry (NI Chamber)
Give a brief outline of your career to date.
I joined NI Chamber the day before my 34th birthday, so I already had a good deal of experience. I actually spent the first nine years of my working life in the hospitality sector, before moving into healthcare. After working in the Central Decontamination Unit at the Royal Victoria Hospital, I decided to take my career on a totally different path and started working in the transport sector as a freight forwarder and customs clerk. In that regard, I’m proof that if you’re really passionate about doing something different, it’s never too late to make a change. The role I have now is a relatively new one – like many of the jobs of the future, it didn’t exist when I first started out in the world of work.
What was your favourite subject at school?
I really enjoyed History and Geography – Geography was probably my favourite of the two. Looking back, it was an early indicator that I’d go on to become really interested in global trade and transport routes.
Did you go on to further/ higher education, if so what did you study and where?
I went to Ulster University on two separate occasions. My first degree was in Politics and Criminology. In 2014, my career was at a bit of a crossroads, so I took the leap and decided to retrain. I knew that I wanted to work in the business field and had developed a real interest in trade and export, so the course in Transportation and Logistics was ideal.
How did you get into your area of work?
Returning to university as a mature student was the turning point. While studying, I was offered a one-year placement opportunity with a shipping company in Belfast docks. I learned so much about how the global shipping industry operated and it was this experience that got me started on my current path.
Is this what you always wanted to do?
Aside from dreams of being an astronaut or footballer when I was a child, this is what I always wanted. I have a keen interest in current affairs and business, so working for NI Chamber is ideal for me.
Were there any particular essential qualifications or experience needed?
I had a great base of experience in the transport sector. Both my academic qualification and my previous role as a customs clerk have helped me in my current role. My job now requires a really strong understanding of the Northern Ireland Protocol, customs rules and logistics, all of which have changed substantially recently. So it’s definitely a job where you’re always learning.
I’ve invested a lot of time in understanding the application of complex international trade rules and have recently been involved in supporting other Chambers and businesses across Great Britain to improve their understanding of what’s required to move goods into Northern Ireland. That transition into the position of trainer has happened really quickly and I enjoy it.
Are there alternative routes into the job?
Having a degree is a great way of opening doors but in my experience, nothing can replace a good work ethic. I’ve worked my way up from an administration role and know first-hand how far hard work can take you.
What are the main personal skills your job requires?
A really strong technical knowledge is vital when you’re acting as an advisor to businesses. It is hard not to run through clichés when describing personal skills but time management, attention to detail and being a team player are all important.
What does a typical day entail?
Usually it starts with a team catch-up, followed quickly by processing the customs imports and exports that are due for that day. Late mornings and afternoons are usually spent speaking with our members, advising them on any international trade queries they have. It’s at this time that I’m also regularly delivering training courses on things like customs declarations and incoterms (international commercial terms).
What are the best and most challenging aspects of the job?
The most challenging aspect of the job is also the best part. I really enjoy helping local businesses to trade internationally. Getting goods in and out of Northern Ireland is critical, so it’s really rewarding to play a central role in that. I enjoy helping firms to cut through complexity. Luckily I am a bit of a nerd and I really like understanding the practical implication of policy changes for business, which I know isn’t for everyone! It is extremely rewarding to be helping businesses understand their new trading relationship post Brexit.
Why is what you do important?
The work we do at NI Chamber ultimately supports international business growth and the development of the economy, so it’s hugely important. Northern Ireland is full of ambitious, capable businesses who want to scale through international growth. I feel very fortunate to be their trusted advisor and to add value by supporting them on their journey.
How has Covid-19 impacted your business/role?
That’s an interesting question, as I started this job in the middle of the pandemic. I’ve been working remotely since the beginning and all of the training and advice clinics I have delivered have been online. I do look forward to getting into the office, meeting my new colleagues in person and getting out to businesses in due course. The NI Chamber team have been great though and have made me feel like part of the team since the beginning.
What adjustments have you had to make?
Working remotely was new for me but it was an adjustment so many people have had to make. The most significant adjustments have been more personal – keeping a good routine has definitely helped keep me motivated.
What advice would you give anyone looking to follow a similar career path?
I would advise anyone, in any role to ask for help when you need it. For someone wanting to work as a business advisor, building good relationships and establishing a network is critical. And for my role particularly, an interest in current affairs is really helpful.
If you weren’t doing this what would you like to do?
I have always had such a strong interest in current affairs and policy, so it would be something in this field. I feel fortunate because NI Chamber has so many different services, there are opportunities to progress and take on new roles.
What is the one piece of advice you would give to yourself on your first day?
Relax – no one expects miracles on the first day!
Describe your ideal day off.
It still seems far away at the moment but ideally I would like to spend the morning and afternoon walking around any of Europe’s major cities and enjoying the architecture. Stopping every now and then for some local food and drinks, before finishing off the day by going to a music festival.
And finally, what’s the key to any successful job search?
Stay positive and be alert for opportunities everywhere, not just on the usual channels and don’t write yourself off before you’ve even started. Companies value relevant experience and work ethic, just as they do academic qualifications, so if your background isn’t the traditional one, know that you are still a very attractive candidate for great positions.
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