Rob O’Donovan, CharlieHR – Co Founder & CEO

Rob is the Co-Founder & CEO of CharlieHR, the free HR platform for small businesses.

We started Charlie because we felt that while building a company is a hard old gig, running one shouldn’t be.

Rob arrived at Charlie via a myriad of accidental moments that ended up becoming not just real companies but his great passion in life. Previously and alongside his long time co-conspirator and best friend Ben – Rob founded a trio of marketing agencies under the umbrella of The Eleven, most notably Born Social which now goes from strength to strength under the stewardship of a bunch far smarter than yours truly.

He spends most of his time counting himself lucky and desperately trying not to be found out.

Rob ODonovan

NOMINATIONS FOR 2026 ARE OPEN!

The program is free but highly selective so firstly we ask senior business leaders working within Marketing, Media and Advertising to nominate the best of their emerging leaders for a place on the program. All ‘nominees’ then receive an ‘Invitation to Apply’ which includes essential information about the process.

APPLICATIONS FOR THE GLOBAL FELLOWSHIP PROGRAM 2026 ARE OPEN

Applicants may apply to EITHER cohort regardless of country of residence, but must commit to attend both Residential dates & the Virtual day of their chosen cohort. Attendance is mandatory and a condition of acceptance onto the program.

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