Building a Career Around Purpose – Lessons from Rob Cunningham
What makes a career meaningful? For many, it’s about more than just the title or the salary—it’s about doing work that has a lasting, positive impact. Rob Cunningham, Director of Leisure and Business Development at BH Live, has spent his career seeking that kind of purpose. With a journey that began in leisure and sport and evolved into executive leadership, Rob has focused on creating environments that support both people and communities.
On the Love Your Career Podcast, hosted by Lawrence Everest, Rob shared stories from his career, reflections on leadership, and the decisions that shaped his path. For job seekers, his story is packed with lessons on value-driven careers, taking opportunities, and staying grounded.
1. Careers Can Evolve—If You Stay Open to Growth
Rob didn’t follow a strict career plan. Instead, his path evolved through curiosity, taking opportunities, and a clear sense of values. Starting in leisure operations, he gradually took on more responsibility, with each step shaped by a desire to improve the organisations and teams he worked in.
He spoke about the importance of being open-minded and willing to try new things—even if they seem outside your original path.
“It’s not always about knowing where you want to end up, but about making the most of where you are and saying yes when the right opportunity comes up.”
2. Your Values Will Shape the Right Role
One of the key takeaways from Rob’s story is how much his career has been guided by his personal values—particularly a strong belief in public service, health, and community impact.
When he took the leap into the not-for-profit sector with BH Live, it wasn’t just a job change. It was a shift towards work that aligned with what mattered most to him.
“I wanted to be in an organisation where the work we do directly benefits people’s lives, not just shareholders.”
For job seekers, this is a reminder: when your values align with your employer’s mission, the work feels more meaningful.
3. Leadership Means Clarity and Consistency
As Rob moved into senior leadership, he realised that good leadership wasn’t about being the loudest voice—it was about clarity, consistency, and presence.
He places great emphasis on being visible to teams, listening to feedback, and leading with integrity. Rather than micromanaging, Rob aims to build trust and give people space to deliver.
He also shared how important it is to create an environment where people feel they can make decisions, take ownership, and grow.
“A big part of leadership is giving people the confidence and clarity to do their best work.”
4. Progression Isn’t Always Vertical
Rob’s advice to anyone feeling stuck in their career? Progression doesn’t always mean climbing a ladder—it can mean moving sideways, developing new skills, or finding a better fit.
Some of his biggest learning moments came from stepping out of roles that no longer served him, or into roles that didn’t immediately look like promotions but offered fresh challenges.
It’s easy to chase titles, but Rob encourages professionals to think about long-term growth—what will make you a better leader, a better colleague, or a better contributor?
5. People Matter Most
A clear thread through Rob’s entire career is the importance of relationships—with teams, peers, mentors, and the communities he serves.
He spoke warmly of former colleagues and the leaders who shaped his approach. He values workplaces where people are seen as individuals, not just job roles.
Whether he’s talking about customer experience or employee engagement, Rob returns to one central belief:
“People are at the heart of everything. If you invest in people, they’ll deliver for you.”
Final Thought: Align Your Career with What Matters
Rob’s story is a powerful example of how building a career around purpose, community, and people can lead to long-term satisfaction and success.
Whether you’re early in your journey or looking for your next step, his advice is simple: know your values, stay open to opportunity, and lead with integrity.
Want More Career Insights? Listen to the Full Episode!
This episode of the Love Your Career Podcast is filled with reflections and lessons from Rob Cunningham’s journey.
Tune in to hear his full story and practical advice for career growth.
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