From HR to Dental Care: How Rachael found a career, and a community, at Bupa 

When Rachael first walked through the doors of Bupa Dental at Erina, she had no dental experience. “I didn’t even know teeth had numbers,” she laughs. Coming from a background in Human Resources, including accreditation both in Australia and the United States (Where she also received awards out of Washington DC for her training programs and work with the USA Military), Rachael’s career path took a major pivot - not just in industry, but in purpose. What she found at Bupa wasn’t just a new job; it was a community that valued her, supported her growth, and fit perfectly into her lifestyle. 

A career that fits life 

Like many working parents, Rachael was looking for part-time work that could fit around her family’s needs. With one child homeschooling and another preparing for senior exams, flexibility wasn’t just a preference - it was essential. “For me, it was perfect,” she says. “It allowed me to be present at home and still contribute meaningfully at work.” 

But flexibility wasn’t the only box Bupa ticked. As a long-time Bupa member herself, Rachael had always appreciated the brand, but it was the company’s stance on psychological safety that really resonated. “I’ve completed ISO training in psychological safety and was actively lecturing and advising on active and participatory organisational compliance, and when I saw Bupa was actively promoting it - not just paying lip service - it really stood out to me,” she says. That commitment to genuine care and inclusion became a key reason she applied. 

Support that makes you thrive 

Despite entering the dental field with no experience, Rachael felt immediately supported. From patient interactions to navigating dental systems, every question she asked was met with patience and guidance. “I’ve never been made to feel like the least experienced person in the room, even though I probably am,” she says. “The support, training, and encouragement have been incredible.” 

That sense of psychological safety - the freedom to ask questions, make mistakes, and grow- has been vital to Rachael’s success. Her attention to detail and customer-first mindset have flourished in the role, especially under the mentorship of supportive leaders. “I can’t speak highly enough of my managers. They see your strengths and they nurture them.” 

Belonging starts with being seen 

It’s not just professional development that keeps Rachael inspired - it’s the culture. “We genuinely want the best for each other,” she says. “It’s not tokenistic. We celebrate each other’s strengths, and we lift each other up.” 

This inclusive, collaborative atmosphere is woven through every part of the practice. Whether it’s jumping in to help a colleague or working together to create the best possible experience for patients, the Bupa Erina team operates with shared purpose and mutual respect. “No one’s sailing their own ship here - we’re all on the same journey.”  “If you are looking for a real world example of Bupa’s Core Values the Bupa Dental team exemplifies this” 

Making a bigger impact 

At Bupa, every role connects to a greater mission: helping people live longer, healthier, happier lives. Rachael sees this purpose come to life every day. Whether she’s helping a nervous patient book an appointment or referring someone to Bupa’s wider services like optical or insurance, she knows she’s part of something bigger. 

“We’re not just taking bookings - we’re caring for people,” she explains. “Some patients call in tears, and we’re often the first voice to calm and reassure them. That emotional care matters.”  The recognition that we are often the first and last impression of Bupa and of the practice is a strong value that I am to represent every day. 

Her advice? Just go for it. 

If you’re considering a role at Bupa but don’t have experience in healthcare, Rachael has one message: go for it. “If you can be half as fortunate as I’ve been, you’ll be so happy. I work with amazing people who value me for who I am. This isn’t just a job - it’s a place where you can belong, grow, and thrive.” 

At Bupa, careers aren’t one-size-fits-all. Like Rachael’s, they evolve, flex, and flourish - supported by purpose, driven by values, and grounded in real care. 

Join us and Be at the Heart of it