Diversity & Inclusion with Niall O'Brien

How do you identify yourself?

Human (that happens to be gay).

What does inclusion mean to you?

Inclusion means actions, not words. Actions that enable each one of us to put all of our energy into the things that really matter to us, without needing to waste effort thinking about how we present, how we talk, who we love. While there will always be a need to build towards it, to me, the ultimate goal of inclusion is to enable people to connect without barriers.

What challenges did you experience, if any, in your career and how did you overcome them? 

I’ve learned that every day brings new challenges, but the key to overcoming them is to take things day by day, relax and have patience. Rome wasn’t built in a day, and neither will a successful career be.

What could others learn from your journey? 

That it’s okay to be your authentic self because you’re the only person that can do that.

How is Deloitte helping you build your career?

Career-wise, Deloitte gives me exposure to world class clients. I am lucky enough to be working with many different inspiring people and technologies, and I’m seeing many ways of approaching issues. It’s not just with my career that Deloitte helps though – I’ve also learned a lot about myself; who I am and who I want to be, where I can improve, where my strengths are, and this is helped by the fact that Deloitte has an inclusive environment where I can be myself and work on who I actually am.

Do you have any mentors and if so, what is their value to you?

One of my biggest mentors at the moment is my manager, Vini Santos. I’ve seen in him the type of leader I want to be – calm, compassionate and genuinely caring. He has left an indelible mark on the way I approach people and issues and I’m very thankful to have had him as the first manager in my professional career.

What is the most valuable thing you have learned since you joined Deloitte?

Balance is crucial in everything we do, especially when allowing yourself time away from work. Taking leave is important as it gives you the time to spend with the most important people in your life and to see and experience new things to be passionate about. I’ve set myself a goal to always use 100% of my leave by calendar year end because closing the laptop and stepping out is so important.

What’s one thing you wish you knew when you came out?

Trust your gut about people and don’t force yourself to fit the LGBTQ+ stereotypes. It is okay to not like the same things other folks like and it is absolutely okay to not fit or want to fit the mould – just do what makes you truly happy.

What’s one piece of advice you would give to someone relocating their life and career to Ireland?

Depending on where the someone is coming from, relocating to Ireland can be a cultural shock. My advice is to meet people and try to be open and friendly. Friendliness and small talk is one of the best things about Ireland so take advantage of it. Go to the pub, say hello to new people, join hobbyist groups – get out there and show the best version of you off. 

What do you see is the role of an ally/ what do you value most?

In my eyes, an ally is someone who stands up with the little guy and calls issues out when they see them. During my times of being bullied, there were people there that knew it was wrong – I know that because I saw it in their face, but they more often than not stood back and did/said nothing. We need all need allies, and we all need to be an ally.

Please describe inclusion in 5 words.

1.     Informed
2.    Human
3.    Diversity
4.    Kindness, and
5.    Patience.