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Summary of your daa journey and current role:

I began working in daa International’s home base, providing support in the identification of business development opportunities within our global teams. I conducted benchmarking exercises to better understand global aviation trends and industry best practices. These benchmarks ranged from studies on private aviation to taxi management systems, and helped to inform senior management’s decision making. From these benchmarking exercises, I began providing support to the Riyadh team on a number of commercial projects, and completed a two week international assignment in November 2022. I was then offered the opportunity to relocate and work with the daa International team in Riyadh on a full time basis, where I have been working as a commercial business analyst since March 2023.

What does your average day look like?

As a commercial business analyst consulting at Riyadh Airport, my average day involves conducting in depth analysis of market opportunities. I focus on identifying potential revenue generation opportunities within the airport. Additionally I am involved in the development and management of the commercial strategy to ensure it aligns with the airport’s objectives and goals. My work involves data analysis, account management, market research, strategy development and cross functional collaboration with other key airport teams to drive revenue growth and enhance the commercial output.

Developing my cross cultural communication skills has been key in my role as a graduate working in Saudi Arabia. I have had to learn and adapt to the many cultural nuances to effectively communicate with colleagues, stakeholders and partners in Riyadh. I have been able to foster better working relationships as a result, which is crucial to my role. It has enabled me to bridge cultural gaps and work collaboratively in a diverse and dynamic environment, ultimately leading to my success so far.

What’s been the highlight so far?

My first time visiting Riyadh on my two week assignment. I was in Riyadh when Saudi Arabia beat Argentina in the World Cup, which is probably the closest thing to Italia 90’ that I’ll get to experience! I also helped support in the development of the commercial strategy for Riyadh Airports Company (RAC) during this period, which is an exciting vision to transform the airport into a global leader, and I am now supporting the delivery of this strategy in my role today.

What’s been your biggest challenge so far?

Understanding and adapting to the cultural differences in Saudi Arabia. It was a tough transition period, moving away from my family and friends into a country with such a contrasting culture to Ireland.

Fortunately, I received great support from the daa International team on the ground in Riyadh, with my manager, Lorcan Tyrrell, making sure I had everything I needed to settle in and also checking in on me regularly. The grad programme manager, David Nugent, and my daa International manager, Sarah Flynn, were also really supportive during this period, and I was able to come home to attend the IBEC course in person every couple of months which made the settling in process a lot more manageable, as I got to see my family as well. Both Sarah and David stayed in touch through regular online meetings to make sure I was settling in okay and were always available for a call if I had an issue.

What’s surprised you most about working at daa?

The strength of the organisation’s international business. Daa International has an outstanding reputation in Saudi Arabia since it began operating in the country in 2016, and it has grown rapidly since. ARI is also a major global player in airport retail, operating in 14 countries across 5 continents.

What is the next step in your journey at daa?

I plan to stay in Saudi Arabia and continue supporting the development of daa International’s commercial function, both in Riyadh and globally.

What is your top tip for someone who wants to apply for the daa grad programme?

Research the company’s values and reflect on how your own experiences match up. It's a valuable approach to evaluate the alignment of your personal values with those of daa. If you are a good fit, you can use your personal experiences to demonstrate your compatibility during the application process.

What’s involved in the application process?

The first stage of the process is an online application form. Pay attention to the closing date of application as you don’t want to miss out! Applicants will then be required to complete a series of online assessments. Those who have been successful will be brought on to the next stage of the process. This is where the assessment centres kick in! A date and time will be arranged for you to come to Dublin Airport and attend this assessment. Multiple skills will be put to the test! Successful candidates will then be invited to a final round interview. Offers will be made shortly after this and feedback will be given upon request.

What advice would you give to someone applying to the graduate programme?

Application Form

• Take your time filling this out and be sure to proofread everything before your submission.
• Your CV should be up to date, with a clear and concise layout.

Online Assessments

• Make sure you’re in an appropriate space to carry out the online assessments. A quiet place with no distractions will help as you’ll need your full concentration.
• Double check you’re connected to a strong network before starting. You don’t want to run into any technical difficulties.
• Ensure your laptop or device is charged or plugged in.
• Remain calm during the assessments. Don’t panic if you’re unsure of a question, just attempt it as best you can.

Assessment Centre

• Preparation is important. Have your research done on Daa and our values. Make sure you’re familiar with the graduate programme and the opportunities involved.
• Present yourself well on the day. Remember… this is your first time meeting the interview panel, so you want to make a good first impression!
• Although it might be easier said than done, try to put the nerves aside. This day is for you to show off, so enjoy it!
• Be sure to play to your strengths… these are different for everyone so definitely focus on yourself and what you’re good at.
• Embrace the challenge! Assessment centres are a great learning opportunity, regardless of the outcome.

Final Round Interview

• Have confidence in yourself. Remember…you’ve done a great job to have gotten this far!
• Take this opportunity to ask the interview panel any questions you might have.
• Be yourself and be sure to show great enthusiasm and interest in the programme.