Tracy Vella recently joined the eCabs Technologies family as Head of HR at their offices in Malta. She says that she always wanted a people-related career, even from a very young age. So, a career in HR, particularly recruitment, was a perfect fit for her.
Building a career focused around people
Tracy is originally from the United States but grew up going to Malta regularly, as her extended family lives there. She has a Master’s degree in Psychology, a BA in Psychology, and a dual minor in Human Resource Management and Sociology. Throughout her career, Tracy has worked for both for-profit and non-profit organisations across multiple industries and territories.
“I knew at a very early age that I wanted a career focused around people. And I studied all things people-related in school. So, Human Resources – especially a people-related field such as recruitment – was a natural fit. I’m very excited that all my previous experiences have led me to this new opportunity,” she says.
Why join eCabs Technologies?
The role/opportunity is what initially attracted Tracy to the organisation. However, once she interviewed with the hiring team, she realised that she would be able to grow and thrive in the environment/culture, and with the people she had met as colleagues.
“We spend so much of our time at the office and with our colleagues. It is important that we feel comfortable and appreciated, and are given the autonomy to succeed in our own way,” she smiles. “If I have any questions, I’m encouraged to ask them. On my second day on the job, we all brought in baked goods and had them over a cup of coffee and a chat! I was also invited to a team building dinner with our Tech team at the end of week one. Everyone is just very approachable and willing to assist, up to and including the CEO.”
What does Tracy do in her day-to-day work?
It is Tracy’s responsibility to ensure that eCabs attracts, recruits, engages, and retains the most viable, talented, and appropriate people to join the eCabs Technologies team. She also works closely with the Marketing team to let the general public know what differentiates eCabs from their competitors.
“I let people know who we are as an employer, what employment opportunities we currently have available, and why they should join us. If successful in round one, then round two would be to onboard our new team members from a recruitment/HR perspective,” she explains. “I am currently meeting all the team members, assessing recruitment needs, working with our wonderful Marketing team to put together some amazing employer branding campaigns to show that we are an employer of choice.”
From the USA to Malta
Tracy is from New York and has been living in Malta for just over five years.
“I think the island is amazing, especially the people and the weather! However, every location has its pros and cons. I’m accustomed to businesses being open 24 hours a day, seven days a week; the convenience is unmatched, but the work-life balance can be lacking,” she says. “I think the biggest challenge has been trying to rebuild my ‘community.’ When you relocate, you have to rebuild your network and rediscover your way in a new environment.”
This, of course, is something that the eCabs Technologies HR and Recruitment team can help every new eCabs recruit with.
Work-life balance in a people-related career
During her free time, Tracy enjoys spending time outdoors hiking, picnicking, and BBQing. She also loves spending time with her friends and family.
“For me, work-life balance means that you have time for both your professional, as well as your personal responsibilities,” she states. “I totally feel as though I’ve achieved it. I work until I accomplish my tasks at hand. Then once I shut down for the day, I refocus my attention on other people, places, and things. That’s not to say that I am immune from sometimes continuing to try to resolve work-related issues after I leave the office!”
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