In the bustling metropolis of Dubai, where over 250 nationalities converge, success stories are woven from diverse threads. Among them stands Nathan Kearney, a 29-year-old British expat who has carved his path to the summit of the corporate world as the Managing Director of Executive Search. With a life philosophy that resonates in its simplicity—’You can. End of story.’—Nathan’s journey is a testament to the power of determination and a deep-seated passion for his field.
Nathan’s journey into the world of recruitment began early, nurtured by an entrepreneurial father and a mother who was a seasoned recruiter. “He grew up learning how to headhunt by just listening to conversations as he walked around the house,” Nathan shares, a testament to the immersive environment that shaped his career path. He embarked on this trajectory at a tender age, working part-time in the family recruitment business during his school years and further honing his skills at the post-graduate level.
A foundation of discipline and an unyielding spirit of competitiveness were instilled in Nathan from an early age through his dedication to rugby. These values have been instrumental in propelling his career forward, providing him with the impetus to continually innovate and generate fresh ideas in the competitive landscape of executive search.
For nearly five years, Dubai has been Nathan’s home, and he is quick to extol the virtues of this cosmopolitan city. “Dubai is the land of opportunity,” he declares. The amalgamation of cultures, perspectives, and business practices that define life in Dubai is a unique crucible for personal and professional growth. Nathan, along with his wife and their cherubic son Fox, revels in the abundant opportunities that Dubai affords, allowing them to build a life of splendor and security.
Nathan’s commitment to education extends beyond the confines of the corporate world. Recognizing the transformative power of knowledge, he dedicates time to educating students at Birmingham City University about international business and global opportunities. Through regular talks, Nathan imparts the confidence that a world of boundless potential awaits those willing to seize it.
Nathan’s ascent to his current role as Managing Director is a testament to his unwavering determination. From his humble beginnings as a minimum-wage kitchen porter, he has navigated the corporate landscape with resilience and resolve. His message to those who perceive their challenges as insurmountable is clear: “If people in the corporate world think that they have a hard life, try working in a kitchen!”
At the core of Nathan’s passion for his work lies a profound belief in the power of human connections. “At the heart of every business is its people,” he affirms. Nathan relishes the opportunity to delve into personalities and corporate cultures, knowing that the perfect match between candidate and company can spark a transformative journey of fulfillment and achievement.
In an era witnessing a surge in AI and technology-driven processes, Nathan emphasizes the enduring importance of human relationships in recruitment. He cautions against over-reliance on technology, emphasizing the value of personal interaction and understanding that can only be achieved through genuine conversation and active listening.
For Nathan, the ultimate dream is simple yet profound: the happiness and well-being of his family. As for future plans, the prospect of owning a vineyard in Greece, where summers can be spent in idyllic tranquility, holds a special place in his heart.
With a thriving family comprising his wife and 15-month-old son, Nathan envisions Dubai as their stable, nurturing abode. Here, amidst the myriad opportunities and vibrant multicultural tapestry, they continue to build a life defined by purpose, passion, and possibility.
In the narrative of Nathan Kearney’s life, Dubai is not just a city of glass and steel; it’s a canvas of opportunity, a place where dreams are realized, and where the indomitable spirit of an individual meets the boundless potential of a global hub. Through unwavering determination and a profound appreciation for the human element, Nathan’s story is a testament to the extraordinary heights one can achieve in the city of dreams.
