I was a bit shocked when our 15-year anniversary came around this month. I’m not really sure how it happened or where the time has gone, but I can say it’s been an incredible journey. Whilst there have been many learning points and developments along the way, it’s been a fantastic journey with no regrets. Sometimes we are so focussed on the future it felt like a great opportunity reflect:

Skills shortage

The pendulum has swung in the last 15 years, when we first started Assured Safety Recruitment in 2009 the economy was in recession, and it was very strongly an employer led recruitment sector. Fast forward to today, over the last few years we’ve witnessed a much more candidate-led market, as has been the case with many other sectors in the UK and Europe. With this change, we’ve seen a significant increase in salaries and more flexibility from employers.

Many of our candidates are now more driven by the right fit for them, driven by company culture and aspirations, employee benefits, working patterns and values alignment as much as career progression and salary.

This openness and understanding of what’s right ‘for me’ sometimes means recognising that a particular role isn’t the right role, even if it comes with a pay rise. This change has allowed us to focus more on the needs and aspirations of candidates, ensuring better matches and more fulfilling careers.

Diversity:

Diversity in our field crosses all metrics, and it’s incredible to see the progress made, though there’s always more to be done. This variety not only enriches our field but also brings a wealth of different perspectives and skills that enhance the health and safety sector. Companies have recognised that diverse teams bring a wealth of perspectives and skills, leading to better decision-making and innovation and research shows that companies with diverse executive teams are more likely to outperform their peers financially.

Going forward, continuing the emphasis on equity will ensure that all employees have access to the same opportunities, regardless of their background. The inclusion of school leavers through apprenticeships further highlights the broad appeal and increasing accessibility of a health and safety career path.
SMEs

We now work with a higher percentage of SME’s than we ever have. The increased appetite for health and safety by employers has meant there are now more opportunities within the SME field such as construction subcontractors, single site manufacturers and small health and safety consultancies. These smaller enterprises often offer a unique, flexible and impactful working environment.

Entry into Safety

We’re always amazed by candidates’ pre-health and safety careers, the diverse career histories of health and safety candidates reflects its broadening appeal and skills breadth not seen in many other sectors. We’ve worked with candidates that have entered safety from musical and performing arts background, ex-teachers, human resources, personal trainers, scientists, ex professional sports players even the occasional recruiter!

Health and Safety Candidates

Our candidates are at the heart of what we do. Their dedication to making workplaces safer is continually inspiring and we feel honoured to support their work through new careers and opportunities to achieve their goals.

Reflecting on these aspects, it’s clear that our journey over the past 15 years has been shaped by diversity, openness, and a commitment and support from both clients and candidates. Here’s to many more years of growth and success in health and safety recruitment!

Author: Katie Pickrell, Assured Safety Recruitment