How has the resourcing landscape evolved since you first joined Empowered / OrderWork?

The resourcing function has undergone a profound transformation. Supplier engagement used to be a manual process, heavily reliant on personal outreach and informal networks, but today, we operate through a structured, automated, portal-driven system, enhanced by skill-tagged resourcing that enables precise candidate-to-role matching.

At the time I joined, I worked closely alongside the Resourcing Recruiter. The team has expanded significantly and we are now a team of six, who support both Empowered and OrderWork in sourcing talent and growing our network. Having an internal team has enabled us to build stronger, more strategic relationships with suppliers and maintain closer ties with candidates.

One of the key advantages of our internal sourcing capability is the continuity it provides. Many of our candidates transition from one contract to another within the business, allowing us to maintain a clear understanding of their experience and skillsets. This continuity means we can match candidates to roles with greater accuracy and deliver a more tailored service to our clients.

Our onboarding process has evolved from a reactive and fragmented approach to a streamlined, well-documented system with clear ownership. Coverage planning is now proactive, enabling us to anticipate demand, identify potential gaps early, and cultivate strategic partnerships with key stakeholders.

What have been the biggest challenges in adapting to these changes?

One of the key challenges has been transitioning to a data-driven, portal-based system required a cultural shift: trusting the technology and skill-tagging to identify the most suitable resource, rather than defaulting to known individuals. It’s been essential to reinforce the value of objectivity and consistency in resourcing decisions.

How has technology changed the way you manage and deploy resources?

Technology has revolutionised our resourcing operations. Today, we use an Applicant Tracking System (ATS) that centralises candidate data and integrates seamlessly with platforms like Empowered and OrderWork. These tools allow us to maintain engagement with our talent pool by sharing upcoming opportunities and keeping them informed about our progress and priorities.

What trends do you see shaping the future of resourcing in the next 3–5 years?

Artificial Intelligence will be the most influential trend. From CV parsing to predictive candidate-role matching, AI is becoming embedded in every stage of the resourcing workflow. While adoption may be gradual, strategic use will accelerate, particularly in enhancing candidate fit and reducing time-to-hire. Empowered and OrderWork are already laying the foundation for this evolution through their integrated systems and data capabilities.

What keeps you motivated after 7 years in this role?

The dynamic nature of the business keeps things fresh. No two days are the same, and the constant influx of new client requirements ensures that I’m always learning and adapting! Working across both Empowered and OrderWork gives me exposure to a wide range of skillsets and industries and I’m energised by the opportunity to shape solutions and support our clients with tailored resourcing strategies.

What advice would you give to someone starting a career in resourcing today?

Resourcing is both rewarding and demanding. You need resilience as it’s a role where you’ll experience highs and lows. Helping someone find the right role is incredibly fulfilling, but you’ll also face setbacks. Building strong relationships is key: whether with candidates or clients, trust and communication are your greatest assets. Maintain a solid candidate pool and be prepared to go the extra mile. Most importantly, enjoy the journey, resourcing offers real impact and personal growth.

What do you enjoy most about your role at Empowered, and what are you most looking forward to in the future?

I value the breadth of involvement my role offers. From contributing to bids to influencing strategic direction, I’m embedded in many facets of the business. It’s a privilege to lead such a capable and committed team of recruiters. The support from colleagues is exceptional: we collaborate, share insights, and lift each other up. Looking ahead, I’m excited to explore new ways to support our clients, expand our capabilities, and continue developing both personally and professionally.