From São Paulo to Toronto and back again — Michael’s journey is one of growth, discovery, and connection. Now back home in Brazil, he reflects on what he learned from his time in Canada — from embracing new challenges and cultures to discovering just how connected our global teams really are.
Tell us about your Edelman journey
My journey at Edelman began in October 2019, when I joined the People team in our São Paulo office. From day one, I had the opportunity to collaborate with colleagues across different teams and practices, both in Brazil and around the world.
After taking on multiple roles and spending nearly five years in Brazil, an opportunity came up in Canada — a move that felt like the next big step. Getting to know a new market, culture, and country was an opportunity I couldn’t turn down.
Moving to Toronto became one of the most exciting chapters of my career. I learned so much, met incredibly talented people, and gained experiences I’ll always treasure.
Eventually, home called. The chance to return to one of my favorite areas — Talent Acquisition — and help shape the future of Edelman’s recruiting capabilities in Latin America felt like another milestone I couldn’t pass up. Six years in, I’m still learning, growing, and collaborating with inspiring colleagues every day.
What is something you’ve discovered about yourself during your time abroad?
I’ve learned that I’m capable of handling big challenges. Moving abroad is exciting, but it can also be daunting — there’s so much to navigate and a lot of responsibility that comes with it. I realized that the less time you spend worrying about what might happen, and the more you focus on tackling things as they come, the easier it all gets.
How has the experience of working in a new market expanded your understanding of Edelman’s global work or approach?
It showed me that no matter where you are — regardless of culture, background, or geography — Edelman teams share the same curiosity, creativity, and collaborative spirit. I also discovered that amazing stories and talented people are everywhere, not just in the office where I started. That realization made me even prouder to be part of a company filled with so much passion and talent. That’s what truly makes Edelman, Edelman.
Is there a favorite local custom, place, or routine that became meaningful to you in your host country?
When I lived in Toronto, I fell in love with the city — its food, sports, and culture. My wife and I developed a favorite routine of walking to a cozy spot in Koreatown called Yummy, where we’d enjoy incredible Korean dishes and a warm neighborhood vibe.
Now that I’m back in São Paulo — my hometown and another city rich in food and culture — I often head to Zur Alten Mühle, a German pub filled with vintage football jerseys from the 70s to 90s. It’s where I go to unwind, enjoy great food, and reconnect with the same sense of community I loved abroad.
What new skills, perspectives, or ways of working have you gained from your host team?
I’ve learned that real talent doesn’t come from a specific degree or background — it’s about the unique perspectives people bring to their work. Collaborating with such a diverse, talented team strengthened me both personally and professionally. One of the biggest lessons I took away was the true meaning of team spirit — knowing that no matter what, there’s always someone ready to support you.
What’s one highlight or proud moment from your time abroad that you’ll carry forward in your career?
That’s a tough one because there were so many! At Edelman Canada, I helped organize and host events, worked on exciting new projects, met talented colleagues from around the world, and even played in a beach volleyball tournament.
But if I had to pick one moment, it would be realizing that people could truly count on me — that no matter where I was in the Edelman network, I could show up, deliver my best, and support my team.
Now, back in Brazil as Regional Talent Acquisition Lead for LatAm, I see that experience as the foundation for my next big adventure — the biggest challenge of my career so far, and definitely the most exciting.
Michael Hayward is a Regional Talent Acquisition Leader based in the São Paulo office.
