Listen "Ep. 6: Kalpesh Baxi on Culture, Adaptability & the Future of Recruitment"
Episode Synopsis
In this episode, Andy Simpson sits down with Kalpesh Baxi, recruitment leader, advisor, and former UK Senior Partner of SThree PLC to explore what it takes to thrive in today’s evolving hiring landscape. They talk about the importance of culture in scaling teams, the impact of generational shifts in the workplace, and how technology is changing the way recruitment businesses operate.Kalpesh shares stories from his 20+ year journey in the recruitment world, including what made SThree such a strong platform for high performers, the lessons he's learned from working across geographies, and why human connection still drives the best results even in an AI-powered world.Whether you’re running an agency, leading a team, or just thinking about what’s next in your career, this conversation is packed with practical insight and candid reflections.🎙 Key Topics:🔹 What makes great culture in high-performing teams🔹 How recruitment leaders should adapt to generational shifts🔹 Why being open to discomfort fuels career growth🔹 The role of authenticity and transparency in leadership🔹 The balance between people, process, and tech in recruitmentTune in for a grounded, engaging conversation on leadership, learning, and the mindset needed to succeed in the recruitment industry.Show Notes & Timestamps[00:00] – Opening & IntroductionAndy introduces Kalpesh and frames the episodeEarly lessons from growing up in a working-class household[03:00] – Recruitment Beginnings & Early InfluenceHow Kalpesh found recruitment and stayed for 22 yearsLessons from the early SThree culture and environment[09:00] – Leading Through CultureWhat makes a good cultureWhy authenticity and people-first values matterThe power of curiosity and transparency in leadership[18:00] – Generational Shifts in WorkHow Gen Z and millennials are reshaping the workplaceWhat modern leadership needs to look likeBalancing career progression with life priorities[30:00] – Building for the FutureThe role of AI in recruitment and businessThe importance of simplicity and clarity in processFinding meaning and momentum in moments of discomfort[42:00] – Final Thoughts & ReflectionsWhy recruitment is still a people businessThe value of working with good humansFinal advice on leadership, risk, and reinvention
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