Featuring Woods & Co. Senior Recruitment Consultants, Christina Grambas and Lucy Andrew
Tom Woods, Founder of Woods & Co., with his team of Senior Recruitment Consultants: Christina Grambas, Lucy Andrew; and North American Director, Matt Peterlechner.
Breaking into the New York career market can feel like an uphill battle. The process can be daunting and overwhelming for Australians making the move, but you’re not alone. Thousands of Aussies arrive in NYC every year, determined to take the next step in their careers (as noted in this previous article outlining some of AWNY’s job hunting tips). With the right visa—like the popular E3—and perseverance, opportunities do exist.
Enter Woods & Co., a Melbourne-based recruitment company that expanded to New York in 2022. With their relationship-driven approach to recruitment, they’ve been making waves in the highly competitive NYC market. AWNY Comms Team member, Tia Metaxas recently reconnected with Woods & Co., tapping into their expertise in navigating the job search in New York. Their North American Director of Recruitment, Matthew Peterlechner, offers some insight:
“The challenge of breaking into the most competitive business market on the planet has been, on a personal level, the most challenging period of my career, but I wouldn’t change a thing! We came to transform a traditionally transactional, overpriced market with our relationship-based approach, and we’re starting to see the fruits of our hard work.”
Looking ahead, Peterlechner says, “We want to build a mirror image of what we’ve built in Australia—a well-known and respected brand in recruitment. We’re always on the lookout for good talent, so if you’re interested in a career in recruiting, feel free to reach out!”
We were lucky enough to grab some time with Christina Grambas and Lucy Andrew, two senior recruiters at Woods & Co.’s NYC office, who shared their expert tips on job hunting and working with Woods & Co. to find a job in New York. Both Christina and Lucy have navigated the unique challenges of the NYC job market and have valuable advice for Aussies making the move.
What is your biggest tip for getting a job in NY?
Christina Grambas’ biggest tip for landing a job in New York? “Networking is key,” she says. “While you can apply online, the best way to get a job is through a referral from someone who already works there. The exciting thing about New York is that networking opportunities are everywhere—even when you’re having sushi at a bar, you can start talking to the person next to you. You never know who you’re meeting. And Americans love Australians—they’re usually happy to chat when they hear the accent!”
Lucy Andrew adds to the advice: “I definitely think networking is crucial, as Chrissy said, but from a recruitment perspective, it’s also about being a well-prepared candidate who has done their research. A big thing with American companies is aligning with their values—whether it’s cultural or tied to their vision and goals. During an interview, it’s important to communicate how you connect with those values. Recruiters like us can help guide you on what to bring up in interviews. Showing that you’ve done your research and understand the market helps position you well once you have your foot in the door.”
What career change tips do you advise for people wanting to career pivot in New York?
Christina suggests investing in education can make a big difference. “My experience has been that Americans value education almost more than Australians. Candidates here really focus on their degrees and qualifications because they carry a lot of weight in this market. So, a good way to start changing industries could be by taking a short course or even something online. Massive universities like Harvard offer online courses—it shows you’re committed to making that change.”
Lucy highlights the importance of demonstrating how you’re continuously up-skilling yourself when considering a career change in New York. “We recently worked with a client who asked applicants, ‘What are you doing in your spare time to up-skill yourself?’ The responses varied from taking LinkedIn courses to those offered by colleges. It’s also important to educate the person you’re speaking to in an interview. For example, I have a degree in psychology, which I earned in Australia. Here, that can lead down the clinical route, but it also aligns well with Human Resources and business support. It’s about thinking outside the box and showing how your degree and career experience correlate with what the company is looking for. In interviews, back up your goals with your existing experience, acknowledge areas where you’re improving, and show that you’re forward-thinking.”
What are some of the biggest mistakes you see from Aussies trying to get a job in NY?
Lucy points out a common mistake Aussies make when job hunting in New York: “We often get vague messages like, ‘I’m thinking of moving to NYC and looking for a job…can you help?’ Without any clear direction, it’s hard for us to assist beyond looking at your LinkedIn profile. You need to be more specific—do your research, understand the market, and find your niche. Don’t expect to fall into something by being too open. You need to know what motivates you and position yourself accordingly.”
She also advises, “Make sure you ask the right person the right questions during your job search. Have a black book of questions or conversation starters ready to help you connect and grow your network.”
Christina shares a recent experience: “An Aussie reached out wanting to move to the US and asked for a 30-minute call, which I agreed to. But when we started, they had no questions prepared! I had to lead the conversation, encouraging them to ask me anything. They were surprised when I turned the focus back on them. This really highlighted how important it is to be prepared for meetings. Know what you want to ask and be specific about what you need. Networks are eager to help, but they can only provide the best assistance when you are clear about what you’re looking for.” She adds, “For example, the Monash University alumni network here in the US is active, with many decision-makers meeting quarterly, willing to help. But clarity is key to getting the most out of those connections.”
Can you share some tips on talking to employers in New York City?
“Be prepared to share more than just your work experience. When asked about yourself, focus on your personality—don’t just dive into your job history, Christina advises. “Then, when you discuss your work, highlight your achievements with measurable results. For example, say something like, ‘In Q1, I hit 100% of my quota.’ In Australia, we may not speak this way, but in the US, especially in sales or KPI-related roles, this is the norm. Practice your pitch in front of a mirror to help ease nerves and improve your delivery.”
Lucy adds, “It’s crucial to do your research on the company, especially if it’s an international business. Know what markets they work across, and show that you’re just as hungry as anyone else in New York—there’s always someone more eager. Back up everything you say with confidence. Instead of using phrases like ‘I think’ or hesitating with ‘um,’ speak with conviction. It’s a game changer.”
What is the best thing about working for Woods & Co?
For Christina, “It’s been really exciting working here as we’re still building the business in New York. We’re hustling, and that challenge keeps things exciting—there’s never a dull moment. Lucy and I both worked at Woods & Co in Melbourne, but coming here has been a whole new experience with a different culture and clients compared to Australia, where we’re more established. It’s been fun and supportive. Woods & Co. really takes care of us, and our well-being is their top priority. Our CEO Tom’s mantra is, ‘We don’t live to work—we work to live,’ and they give us every opportunity to succeed.”
Lucy adds, “I feel really lucky to have transitioned seamlessly from my role in Australia to here. Woods & Co. is still building in New York, and our clients have been amazing to work with. They’re open to our market insights and consulting, which is refreshing. Every day is different, and I’ve learned so much about everything – from clients, to the US healthcare system. The culture at Woods & Co is great—we have team lunches, everyone genuinely cares about how you’re doing, and they trust you to work remotely. They’re incredibly supportive and flexible, always ensuring you have what you need.”
Who are some Aussie ladies doing awesome things in NYC currently on your radar?
“Some amazing Aussie ladies on our radar right now include Melinda Robertson, CEO of Scanlan & Theodore. She introduced the brand to New York from Australia, literally starting by bringing clothes in her suitcase,” shares Lucy. “Now they’ve expanded with two stores in New York and across North America. She has built the brand here, and it’s incredible.”
Christina highlights Connie Manice, the Art Director at MAC: “She’s one of the kindest, most fun, creative, and down-for-anything people. Originally from Australia, she’s lived in Paris and has been in New York for 10 years! She previously worked at COTY in luxury beauty, and she’s the person who taught me that you need to talk to everyone and anyone because you never know who they are.”
How to connect with the Woods & Co team:
AWNY | Australian Women in New York 