Journey across borders: From banking to recruitment success

Mellissa, inspired by a friend's success, transitioned from retail banking to recruitment, which led her to relocate from Singapore to Thailand. At Robert Walters, she experienced significant growth and a supportive team culture, while living in Bangkok enriched her both personally and professionally. Mellissa advocates for international moves, emphasising their unique opportunities and long-term benefits.

Explore the path that shaped Mellissa's career journey.

Prior to entering the recruitment field, I was immersed in the dynamic field of retail banking. My passion for sales and connecting with new people was evident early on. It was a friend's success in recruitment that sparked my interest in the industry. His career, filled with engaging client meetings and exciting corporate trips, alongside a rewarding income, inspired me to make the leap. I began my recruitment career as a junior consultant in Finance and Accounting, focusing on contract and temporary positions, a thriving sector in the UK.

A new chapter began when I decided to move from Singapore to Thailand. My appreciation for Thailand started in my early 20s and continued during my time in Singapore. The country's warmth, hospitality, and rich culture captivated me. After spending two years in Canada, I realised how much I missed Southeast Asia and decided to make Thailand my home. The decision was influenced by its safe environment, friendly people, and endless activities for my young daughter, not to mention the incredible cuisine.

My professional journey at Robert Walters was marked by significant growth. I managed a thriving contracting business with an incredible team. Despite our diverse backgrounds, we worked cohesively and celebrated each other's successes.

Seeking to broaden my horizons, I eventually explored opportunities outside the company, aiming to challenge myself with a larger portfolio. However, the pull of Robert Walters was strong. I maintained connections with its community and was drawn back by the unique culture, team spirit, and, most importantly, the people. The infrastructure and community at Robert Walters are unmatched, making my return feel like coming home.

Living and working in Thailand has been rewarding in ways I never imagined. Bangkok, with its vastness and vibrancy, offers so much more to explore.

The company's culture has been instrumental in helping me adapt to this new market, introducing me to clients and sharing invaluable insights about the business culture.

Despite my lack of Thai language skills, the meetings have been graciously conducted in English, easing my transition. With the support of Robert Walters, I am also taking Thai lessons, making my adaptation even smoother.

Thailand has been the backdrop for numerous personal milestones, from getting engaged to celebrating my 30th birthday scuba diving. This country, once my go-to for adventure, is now the place I am blessed to call home. The international move has enriched my professional growth and career trajectory, offering unique opportunities and experiences that would have been hard to find elsewhere.

To anyone considering an international move to work in recruitment, I say: 100% go for it. Home will always be there if you choose to return. The experience of living and working overseas is uniquely enriching, so embrace the leap of faith. Staying motivated in a new country involves meeting people, exploring the city, and focusing on long-term goals, particularly what I wish to provide for my daughter. This journey keeps me inspired and constantly reminds me of the incredible life experiences being created.

At Robert Walters, we offer exceptional avenues for learning and career progression. If you share Mellissa's ambition to succeed in recruitment, we invite you to connect with us. The opportunities are boundless.