Partnering for success on and off the field

When Robert Walters signed on as Premier Partner for local Brisbane institution, Brothers Rugby Club, they became much more than a brand name on a jersey – they became part of the Brothers family.

“The Robert Walters team regularly roll up their (jersey) sleeves and get involved,” says Lochie Lawrence, General Manager, Commercial Operations at Brothers Rugby. “It’s a genuine partnership.”

For instance, Lochie says Robert Walters staff are regularly at the club, turning sausages on the BBQ at community nights and attending training sessions to support the players. Jane Lowney, Director Robert Walters, Brisbane was on the end of a paintbrush during a recent working bee to revamp the clubhouse. It’s one of the things Lochie likes most about working with Jane and her team: they walk the talk.

“Jane really lives the Robert Walters’ values of honesty and integrity,” says Lochie. “From the outset, she’s been refreshingly upfront about what the partnership means for Robert Walters. They’re looking for human capital, and our club has it in spades.

“We know what we want to achieve together.”

So, what’s Brothers Rugby and Robert Walters’ game plan for their partnership? That’s simple: personalised, customised solutions.

With more than 2,500 members (including more than 2,000 players) Brothers Rugby is one of the largest clubs in the country. Yet Robert Walters offers tailored services to help the club’s members with employment outside their playing career.

“Jane and her colleagues understand the nuances of working with athletes,” is how Lochie puts it. He says it’s not unusual to see someone from Robert Walters meeting with players, on their own turf, after a training session.

“They tell our players: don’t dress up; don’t change your schedule. We’ll come to you,” Lochie says. He appreciates the way the Robert Walters team takes time to chat with club players, and to really listen to what each player needs.

And the result? “Several of our club members have found jobs thanks to Robert Walters – some have even become Robert Walters recruiters themselves!”