Career journeys can reflect the values we identify with—curiosity, collaboration, and a drive for continuous growth. Grace’s transition from Development Consultant to Human Resources (HR) Business Partner supporting the Commercial Bank is a powerful example of how diverse experiences can shape impactful careers. We spoke with Grace to learn more about her path, the challenges she faced, and the insights she’s gained along the way.

Describe your previous responsibilities as a development consultant. What did you like about the role?

In Development we are charged with being researchers of external trends and internal processes; designers of solutions for simple and complex business problems; storytellers of colleague and client successes; and change agents who champion improved ways of working and delivering for clients. As Development Consultants, we collaborate closely with both the business and HR to drive innovation and sustainable progress across the organization. I find the role deeply rewarding—it combines creativity and complexity with the opportunity to deliver visible, impactful business results.

What motivates you to keep learning and growing?

I approach challenges with curiosity and a desire to understand the "why" behind the "what." Rather than accepting things at face value, I explore the principles and context that shape decisions and practices. In banking, the surface-level view might be “we take deposits and make loans,” but a closer look reveals a complex ecosystem.  

Describe your responsibilities as a Citizens HR Business Partner. What drew you to the role?

As an HR Business Partner (HRBP), you are responsible for guiding and implementing HR policies and programs within your designated business line, ensuring alignment with corporate standards and strategic objectives. You serve as a critical liaison between the business and HR, fostering two-way communication and collaboration. A deep understanding of the business landscape and the capabilities required from colleagues to drive success is essential. I began my career as a banker, and what drew me to the HRBP role was its close connection to the business and its day-to-day operations. I find great fulfillment in the complexity of the challenges we help solve, as well as the balance of creativity and precision the role demands.

At my core, I’m a lifelong learner, and this natural inclination to learn and grow is fundamental to who I am.

Share a challenge you faced while moving to HR from the Commercial Bank and how you overcame it.

One of the most significant challenges was shifting from a client-facing role to a more internally focused function. Success in the Commercial Bank was measured by portfolio growth and client acquisition. In HR, the impact is just as critical but often less immediately quantifiable, requiring a mindset shift. To overcome this, I leaned into my analytical background and business acumen, prioritizing understanding how HR drives business outcomes through talent strategy, organizational design, and leadership development. I also invested time in learning HR language while applying a Commercial lens to the function. My amazing team supported me by answering many questions along the way. Ultimately, the transition deepened my appreciation for HR's complexity and reinforced the importance of adaptability and continuous learning. 

How important is having a diverse career path, and what benefits does it bring?

A diverse career path has been highly valuable. Transitioning from Banking to HR has given me a unique perspective on how organizations operate and how people drive performance. In the Commercial Bank, I developed skills in financial acumen, client relationship management, and strategic execution. Moving into HR allowed me to apply that business lens to talent strategy, organizational effectiveness, and leadership development. This cross-functional experience helps connect business goals and people outcomes practically and impactfully. A diverse career path brings fresh thinking to complex challenges, fostering adaptability and enhancing the ability to influence across the organization. It also deepens empathy, understanding pressures business leaders face, and how HR can be a true partner in driving results.

Share an example of when you proactively built a relationship or took initiative to support a colleague or team? What motivated you, and what did you learn?

One of the most rewarding parts of my journey at Citizens has been the opportunity to build and maintain relationships across multiple cities. With every move, I’ve met incredible colleagues, learned new ways of working, and built connections that I’ve intentionally kept alive over time. Relationships thrive on consistency and mutual investment, turning contacts into trusted collaborators. One favorite part of my role in HR is to test ideas or get feedback from colleagues on how they will land in practice. Relationships don’t have to be tied to a location or a role. Investing in people, staying curious about their work and lives, and making the effort to stay connected turns relationships into a powerful source of collaboration, support, and shared success - no matter where you are.

How would you describe the culture at Citizens, specifically in HR?

At Citizens, the values and skills that drive success include curiosity, calculated risk-taking, collaboration, and an entrepreneurial mindset. Success here is a collective achievement—we rise and grow together as a team, with everyone playing a vital role in advancing our organization. When we bring our best selves to work, the entire company benefits. Citizens is large enough to be a leading force in financial services, yet agile and personal enough that every contribution truly matters.

What advice would you give to someone considering a career change or pivot?

Take the time to explore roles and teams that align with your interests, skills, and career aspirations. Reflect on how your strengths complement the requirements of each opportunity. Engage with team members to gain insights into their work and career journeys—Citizens colleagues are genuinely open to sharing their experiences and perspectives. All it takes is a conversation. Believe in your potential; while change can feel daunting, it often leads to meaningful growth and rewarding outcomes.

Inspired by Grace's journey? Explore open roles at Citizens and start your own path to impact here.