Dale Chen, founder of Future Direct, shares his life and business lessons.
In today’s global economy, the ability to attract and hire top talent from around the world is a critical driver of success for many businesses and addressing skills shortages.
Yet, navigating the complex web of procedures and work visa requirements can be a daunting challenge for employers.
“I realised there was a real need for reliable, high-quality immigration services to support Ireland’s growing immigrant population”
Enter Dale Chen, founder of Future Direct, a consultancy firm specialising in immigration support services.
With a mission to empower businesses to build diverse, international teams, Dale and his team provide essential services to employers, HR professionals, and recruiters.
From managing work visa sponsorships to offering comprehensive relocation support, Future Direct has become a trusted partner for companies seeking to recruit non-EU nationals. In this interview, Dale shares insights into his journey, the challenges of scaling an immigration consultancy, and the vital role his business plays in bridging global talent with opportunities in Ireland.
Tell us about your background and the journey you took to arrive at where you are today?
I moved to Ireland in 2006 to join my family, who had been here since 2000. I studied at Trinity College Dublin, earning both my Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees there. After graduating, I worked in Trinity’s Global Room for three years, helping international students settle into their new lives. I then spent two years working as an engineer with ESB.
“While many competitors primarily cater to large employers, we offer tailored, end-to-end support for both businesses and individuals”
Through my own journey, I experienced the challenges of Ireland’s immigration system firsthand, not just for myself but also while helping my family and friends in our community. I realised there was a real need for reliable, high-quality immigration services to support Ireland’s growing immigrant population.
That’s what inspired me to start Future Direct in 2018. Our goal has always been to provide empathetic and effective support for individuals and companies navigating the immigration process. It’s been incredibly fulfilling to see the positive difference we’ve been able to make.
Why are you doing what you’re doing? What need are you meeting?
Our mission is to provide high-quality and innovative immigration services to individuals and businesses. Having navigated the immigration process myself, I understand the challenges it brings, and that’s shaped how we approach our work.
We’ve helped thousands of clients—both private individuals and corporate clients—across a range of industries. What sets us apart is our dual focus. While many competitors primarily cater to large employers, we offer tailored, end-to-end support for both businesses and individuals.
“Financially, we’ve doubled our revenue every year, which has been the driving force behind our expansion”
For example, we don’t just assist with employee work permits; we also help with family visas and citizenship applications, bridging a gap that larger firms often overlook.
Our team has a professional and personal understanding of Irish immigration, with many of us having experienced it firsthand. This allows us to truly empathise with our clients and provide solutions that are not only effective but also delivered with care and attention to detail. It’s this combination of expertise and empathy that makes Future Direct unique.
How did you fund your business, and what are your growth plans?
In the early days, I funded the business myself while still working full-time as an engineer. From 2018 to 2022, everything I earned went straight back into the business — I didn’t take out loans or bring on investors. By 2022, demand had grown so much that I decided to leave my engineering role, open an office, and start building a team.
Since then, we’ve grown steadily—from just me in 2018 to a team of 10 employees in 2024. Next year, we’re planning to expand even further, aiming for 15 to 20 employees and moving to a larger office to support that growth. Financially, we’ve doubled our revenue every year, which has been the driving force behind our expansion.
What or who has helped you most along the way? Who was your greatest mentor or inspiration?
I wouldn’t say I had an official mentor, but I’ve been lucky to have amazing support and examples to learn from. My father was a huge influence—he introduced me to his network in the B2B sector, which really helped early on. My wife also played a key role in the beginning, managing the business while I was still working full-time.
“It’s about taking a leap of faith. Leaving my stable, well-paid engineering job to pursue this business full-time was a pivotal moment. Believing in yourself and seizing opportunities—despite the risks—is what makes the difference”
In recent years, I’ve built great relationships through networking groups, connecting with fellow entrepreneurs who have become not just friends but also peer mentors. Their insights and shared experiences have been incredibly valuable as the business has grown.
What is the greatest piece of business advice you’ve ever received?
Two things stand out. First, in Ireland, connections are vital to doing business. Building and maintaining relationships has been key. Second, serving customers well builds your reputation, which ultimately pays dividends.
During the pandemic, I offered free consultations to immigrants facing visa issues, even though we had little business at the time. This act of goodwill built trust and referrals, which fueled our post-pandemic growth.
What was the inspiration for naming your company Future Direct?
The name reflects our mission: helping people navigate toward a brighter future. The logo features a series of doors, symbolising the opportunities we open for our clients—whether they’re students, professionals, or families looking to build a future in Ireland.
In your opinion, what qualities mark the difference between success and failure in business?
For me, it’s about taking a leap of faith. Leaving my stable, well-paid engineering job to pursue this business full-time was a pivotal moment. Believing in yourself and seizing opportunities—despite the risks—is what makes the difference.
“What has been the most challenging aspect of growing your business?”
Finding the right team has been the biggest challenge. Our business relies heavily on people, so it’s essential to hire individuals who understand and resonate with our customers’ needs. Many of our staff have personal immigration experience, which helps them connect with clients on a deeper level.
How has digital transformation played a role in your scaling journey?
Until early 2024, we depended almost entirely on word-of-mouth referrals to grow the business. But this year, we’ve really leaned into digital transformation. We launched social media accounts, started creating content, and even brought on dedicated digital marketing staff. These changes have made a big difference, helping us boost brand awareness and generate more leads than ever before.
If you were to start all over again, what would you do differently?
If I could start over, I’d begin sooner. I recognised the demand early on but hesitated to take action right away. Looking back, entering the market earlier would have allowed me to help more clients and grow the business even further.
Who inspires you in business today?
My father. Despite facing immense challenges as an immigrant, including working in construction during the Celtic Tiger crash, he remained resilient and hardworking. His perseverance inspires me every day.
What advice do you give to new hires to nurture talent in your organisation?
I always tell new hires to take the initiative. Don’t just stick to your assigned tasks—look for other ways you can add value. This proactive mindset benefits the company and, just as importantly, helps you grow and develop in your career.
What business books would you recommend?
The Lean Startup by Eric Ries. It’s a fantastic resource for entrepreneurs, teaching principles of building, testing and scaling a business.
What tools or technologies do you use to stay organised?
I’m quite traditional, I rely on a notebook and a physical calendar. Writing things down helps me stay focused and accountable.
What social media platform do you prefer for business and why?
LinkedIn is our go-to platform. It’s invaluable for connecting with potential clients and staying updated on recruitment trends, which align with our services.
What advice would you give your 21-year-old self?
I’d tell my 21-year-old self not to let others’ opinions define you. Be open to exploring opportunities, and don’t be afraid of failure—it’s all part of the learning process. Perseverance is key.
For example, I failed to get into an entrepreneurship program twice, but I kept pushing and succeeded on my third attempt. That perseverance set the foundation for my entire business journey and taught me that persistence pays off.
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