Meet Dominique Nicholas, Emerald Group International

When you enjoy your job, it shows. And when Dominique Nicholas, Associate Director at Emerald Group, says she loves her job, she really means it. She’s a career recruiter, determined to use her market knowledge and recruitment skills to find the right roles for her candidates

We spent time with Dominique to understand how an archaeology graduate became a successful international recruitment consultant, placing candidates in non-life actuarial, life actuarial, insurance (Risk, CAT, Claims, Accounting & Underwriting), pension and healthcare actuarial positions across the world. Read on to discover what drives Dominique and how she brings her endless energy to support the people she works with.

Dominique, the connection between archaeology and recruitment isn’t obvious. How did you end up working for Emerald Group?

It was completely by accident! I was fresh out of university and looking for a job when I saw an advert for Emerald Group. To be honest, I applied on a bit of whim but fell in love with the world of recruitment immediately. A good thing too, as it can be a very challenging career choice – but it suits me perfectly. I’ve been with Emerald Group for eight years now and have progressed to Associate Director. I love making a difference in people’s lives: there aren’t many jobs where you help someone find their perfect job or relocate to their dream country. It’s all about helping people shape their lives to achieve their goals and I enjoy every part of it.

You’ve said recruitment can be challenging: what do you mean?

We work long hours, and it can be a bit stressful at times! Emerald Group consultants are all part of an ambitious team and there are high expectations around the quality of the work we deliver. Understanding people is also essential. We’re working with people who are making important decisions, and you have to support them every step of the way, answering questions and giving them the time they need. A huge part of my role is advisory, and I am constantly drawing on my personal knowledge of the markets I work within and the technical requirements of the roles I’m filling to support my clients and candidates. 

What drives you to succeed?

Where do I start?!? I want to be personally successful, and I have a very focused mindset. I’m also very self-motivated and work well independently. I have a feeling that my Emerald Group colleagues might say I’m competitive! I’m not going to confirm or deny that, but a bit of healthy competition is a good thing in this business!

What do you enjoy most about your role at Emerald Group?

There are so many things, but if I had to pick one, I’d say that I love working internationally. I speak German and English so I get to speak to people all over the world. It’s brilliant to be travelling to see Emerald Group clients again, after a break during Covid. I have clients across Europe and Bermuda, and many of the candidates I work with want to relocate. They know that I can answer their questions or point them in the right direction on relocation issues, education, schooling, healthcare or even property. I find it really satisfying to be able to give them the knowledge that they need to make their decision.

What’s the most unusual question you’ve been asked?

I’m always quite surprised – and flattered – when someone asks about me! We don’t often talk about ourselves but when you are making a connection with a new client or candidate, sometimes they ask about my background and want to hear about what I do. I think that shows that recruitment is all about human connection and personalities. We want to work with people that we like and trust and getting to know each other is a really important part of that. It also helps to build long term relationships with people – sometimes you can be briefed on the perfect role for a contact who isn’t actively looking for a new job, and because you know them well, they trust you when you get in touch for a chat.

What’s been your best moment so far at the Emerald Group?

I have too many to share! I’ll be honest though: I love it when I get feedback from a client who is happy with the work that I’ve done, or a candidate that appreciates my help in finding them their new role. I really work hard for my clients and candidates and nothing beats a phone call to say thank you, it gets me every time! 

One last question: what do you do to relax and unwind from work?

I fill my life with experiences! I enjoy lots of sport, both watching and playing, and I love going out for a good meal. When I’m not being active, you’ll find me planning my next holiday, reading or playing the guitar. My home life is definitely as busy as my working life, and I hope it stays that way!