Partner Article

Getting to know... Louise Kennedy

We know you as the Managing Director of Oculus HR, and a member of the Entrepreneurs’ Forum, but who is the person behind the title? Tell us a little about what makes you tick…

I am very driven by my values which are mirrored within the business. I sit with morals as being my core purpose, thinking about how people treat each other in any situation, personally and professionally.

Over the last two years, I have really focused on my own wellbeing – ‘health is wealth’ as a friend often says. This is more vital than ever when I own and operate a growing business; I must look after myself, mentally and physically. This in turn leads to travelling and every opportunity I get to go to travel the world, I will go.  

Did you always want to work in your industry?

When I left university I had no idea what I wanted to do or where I wanted to work. A few years later, I had the opportunity to undertake my Masters in HRM and gained my CIPD qualification. While studying, I started to work in manufacturing in a stand-alone role which gave me the chance to build a strong foundation. That opportunity kickstarted my career and 25 years later, I have never looked back.

What’s the best bit about your job? And the worst?

There are many aspects of HR that I enjoy, however, I especially enjoy the commercial view of people – how people impact on the commercial aspect of the business. HR is not just an isolated entity; it needs to make decisions based upon the business needs. To advise our clients of the variables with each given situation is invaluable to the employer and employee.

What do you consider to be your greatest achievement? 

My greatest achievement has to be starting Oculus HR and still be a growing business 11 years later, with many plans still to come.

How do you relax outside of work?

I love to be out in the fresh air, whatever the weather.  We have a Red Fox Labrador who loves to walk for miles. We are often found walking a couple of times a day and every weekend. I really enjoy Hot Pod Yoga, it is great to clear my head and focus on myself.

What makes the North East such a great place to live and work?

We live at the beach in Sunderland which is a perfect location to see the beach and sea. Every time I leave the house is something special. The North East has so much to offer. Sunderland itself is transforming; it is so exciting to see how it is changing and to think about how it will be in 10 years’ time. It is the place to be and the North East provides great businesses and connections with a very supportive community.

Tell us something about you we didn’t know…

Last year I became a registered travel agent so I can book my own travel. I have a travel bucket list to work through and this year we’ve already ticked off a few. We travelled to Switzerland on the Bernina Express through the Swiss Alps, spent a week in the US then went on to the Bahamas.

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Entrepreneurs' Forum .