Get to know Craig McConkey – Principal Consultant at IT Search

Tell us about yourself?

I’ve been working in the Irish Software Engineering market for over 6 years now, mostly helping companies hire permanent, Java/JVM focused engineers. 

What’s your background & how did you get into recruitment?

I had been working abroad for several years, and had started working in property lettings. Recruitment seemed to require a similar skillset, but a lot more of a diverse path.. I inevitably wanted to be involved in tech. 

Why you chose to work with IT Search?

Flexibility, complete ownership over my own work, working schedule etc… extremely down-to-earth, supportive people across the entire business, and a lot of senior people I could see myself enjoying working with.

What do you enjoy most working at IT Search?

The support, flexibility and “common sense” approach from management. Also, it’s nice having the wider business/other brands to liaise with – lots to learn there. 

What do you like about your role?

I network in Ireland and all over Europe, helping companies find and hire software engineers. Most of my success has been engaging with startups, helping them find the right characters/skillsets to build their products, and often lead their engineering teams. What I enjoy most about my job… working with super-smart engineers, leaders, CTOs who build interesting things.

What makes IT Search different to other agencies?

Definitely the management & management style at IT Search stood out. 

What made you stay in IT Search?

Supportive and humble management.. It’s a nice environment working around friendly, driven and intelligent people.

Fun fact about you? 

I go through phases of writing, recording and releasing music every few years… I also played Blackjack in Barcelona with Ronaldinho, one of my favourite stories to tell. 

Where would we find you when you are not recruiting?

Running after my 2 kids usually… playing piano when I’m not, and playing golf when the rain isn’t torrential.