IHR Live London 2025

I am in recruitment industry professional with over 15 years experience as an agency recruiter, Recruitment manager, Internal Head of Talent, recruitment trainer, founder of award winning online recruiting platform WorkShape and now Editor and Community builder at Recruiting Brainfood - the best weekly newsletter in recruitment.

Amelia Sordell is a Personal Brand Strategist, Entrepreneur and the Founder of Personal Branding Agency, Klowt. Starting her career in sales as a recruiter, Amelia quickly discovered that there was only one determining factor to her and the businesses success - the people. She started building her own personal brand in 2018 and since then has launched her Personal Branding Agency, Klowt and worked with leadership teams from the likes of SkyBet, Paddy Power, Alvarez and Marsal through to startup founders, Venture Capitalists and LinkedIn Top Voices. Now 33, Amelia has two children, an online community of over 250,000 people, and a $3 million personal branding agency, Klowt, all built on a 100% inbound business model, all off the back of her personal brand. She is a regular speaker, consultant and NED for businesses who want to drive real results by putting human beings at the heart of their brand. 

Katrina Collier is on a mission to end collaboration chaos that occurs between recruiters and hiring managers that leads to clunky recruitment processes and a poor candidate experience. She is one of 2 people globally delivering design-thinking workshops specifically for talent acquisition; workshops that can swiftly help companies fix the real issues preventing successful hiring, in as little as one day. She is also Author of The Robot-Proof Recruiter, a Mentor, and a global keynote speaker.

Katrina is an Ambassador for Hope for Justice charity, and you'll find her on LinkedIn and on Instagram & Twitter @KatrinaMCollier.

Christina O’Connor is an experienced International Talent Acquisition leader specializing in sourcing and hiring high-performing talent across diverse regions including Europe, Middle East, Asia Pacific, and North America, particularly within hyper-growth organizations. With a robust corporate talent management background spanning over 15 years, she has demonstrated her leadership acumen in focusing on go-to-market customer talent and niche technical talent delivery on a global scale, with significant in region experience in the UK, UAE and Singapore.

In her current role at Amazon Web Services (AWS), Christina serves as the EMEA Sourcing Leader within the Central Sourcing Team, spearheading the establishment of a new offshore sourcing model and is also part of the Gen AI recruiting ambassador program.  Previously, as Head of Diversity Sourcing EMEA at AWS, Christina’s leadership was instrumental in driving initiatives to enhance diverse employee representation within EMEA. She orchestrated successful Diversity Sourcing campaigns across various sectors and played a pivotal role in building sourcing strategies for a number of new build businesses across AWS.

Prior to her tenure at AWS, Christina held key positions at Rapid7, Symantec, Intel Security and McAfee, where she honed her skills in international talent acquisition, business partnering, and organizational effectiveness. Notable achievements include implementing hiring analytics, diversity hiring strategies, and agile hiring transformations, as well as overseeing the successful implementation of Workday as a new ATS.

Christina holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in English and History from the University of Portsmouth and is known for her process-driven approach, innovative mindset, and commitment to driving change to center the talent agenda. As a seasoned D&I advocate and change agent, she thrives in scaling agile programs and enhancing organizational effectiveness within hyper-growth environments.

As an Early Careers Specialist at National Grid ESO Asha leads on the learning, design and delivery across ESO Early Careers programmes. She helps with the development of the learning strategy for Early Careers programmes, specialising in apprenticeships and oversees the delivery (including through managed service providers), managing the effective induction of new talent recruits and the day to-day pastoral care, to ensure apprentices have appropriate support as they start their careers.

I am a Prince 2 Qualified, Resourcing Transformation, Employer Brand, TA Leader with a focus on inclusion and culture, I have over 14 years global experience at Unilever, Mckinsey and Company , BP, Primark & Ferrero SA.

Specific experience in creating EVP, Employer Brand, recruitment marketing strategies globally. Deep expertise in deploying technology, social media & embedding recruiting capability globally.

Andy is currently transforming recruitment within HMRC by implementing a talent acquisition strategy to deliver the skills required for the organisation for both now and the future, and exploring how generative AI such as ChatGPT can be used in the most effective way to help deliver that change.

A Senior Civil Servant with over 30 years of experience in recruitment and HR, Andy is a visionary strategic thinker who is able to create, build, and direct innovative organisational change. He is also an inspirational leader described by colleagues as "refreshingly non-Civil Servant" who brings the best of the private sector into the sometimes-limiting working confines of the Civil Service. He is passionate about nurturing aspiring talent to achieve their potential, and relishes the challenge of helping people reach their full potential. Andy is also the author of the best-selling book, Social Media Recruitment.

This summer just past marks Dan’s 20th year in recruitment and talent acquisition. Currently working at Avanade, a global technology consulting firm with just under 20,000 employees operating in 27 countries his role has a strategy / advisory focus to help the firm meet its diversity objectives.

Working closely with both the Global Lead for TA and the Chief Diversity Officer his role intersects both functions and allows him to the opportunity to combine his hands on recruitment experience with his understanding of inclusion and diversity.

Inclusion & Diversity has been a core focus since 2015 when I first collaborated with a team of business psychologists and organisation design consultants to develop an inclusive behaviour psychometric measurement tool. This behavioural science then underpinned a digital culture change and wellbeing platform called NCLUSION. This platform failed despite getting a huge amount of interest from Chief Diversity Officers – I’ll share my learnings from this journey another time.

The idea for The Intersection Network came about in the months before Covid but it’s taken until now to get it off the ground. My main purpose is to share my know-how to help encourage and enable the TA community to really lean in and influence their organisations overall D&I strategies.

Award-winning Talent Acquisition leader with a demonstrated history of excelling within fast-paced corporate environments. In-house recruitment background encompassing hiring at all levels (early talent through to c-suite/executive search) across EMEA. Experienced in building successful partnerships with senior stakeholders to effectively meet business needs. Knowledge of leveraging data and analytics to measure output and identify areas of growth. Expert in forming, maintaining and fostering relationships with existing as well as new and emerging talent. Solely responsible for all social media management and employer branding for our UK entity (LinkedIn, Instagram & TikTok). My creative outlook, goal-oriented mentality and passion for DEI enables me to consistently deliver results to a high standard whilst maintaining a candidate-centric focus.

Paul Bhangoo is currently the Global Head of Employer Brand & Talent Attraction for BT Group. The area supports a global, multi-branded organisation with engagement and attraction of colleagues across the skills spectrum from frontline colleagues working in retail/call centres for EE to digital strategists for BT Group in India – and everything in-between – whilst ensuring that the customer & candidate experience has brand symmetry.

Paul has over 30 years of recruitment/recruitment marketing experience gained in publishing, advertising agencies and within global organisations. In addition to delivering global EVP’s segmented by skills, career stage & geographic localisations, Paul has extensive experience of supporting DEI initiatives within organisations and improving the relationship diverse talent has with global brands.

Lee Fairfax is the Flexible Workforce Recruitment Manager at Yusen Logistics (Europe).

Recruitment Professional from Northampton with over 18 years experience in the Catering, Commecial and Industrial sectors.

A keen martial artist who has trained in both Tae Kwon Do and Jeet Kune Do.

Experienced Talent Acquisition professional, specialising in the international recruitment for executive level positions, passionate about Employer Branding and innovation.

Harpreet Pannum is the Recruitment Manager for Tech CoE and Executive Search at EY.

Puja Kumar is a seasoned Talent and Resourcing professional with a strong track record in strategic talent acquisition and HR transformation. Currently serving as the Senior Assessment Manager at Sky Group, Puja leads global assessment and selection practices, ensuring they are robust, fair, and inclusive. With extensive experience at leading firms like Vodafone UK, LV=, and Santander UK, she has driven significant change initiatives, implemented innovative recruitment technologies, and championed diversity and inclusion. Her collaborative approach, strong business acumen, and ethical practices have earned her respect and recognition in the industry. Puja holds an MBA from the University of Delhi and an MSc in Human Resource Management from Monash University, Melbourne.

I am a Senior level Recruitment professional with over 15 years experience across a variety of industries both in the UK and the GCC.

During this time I have been responsible for leading search assignments up to Executive level positions across a vast range of industries including Construction, Engineering, FMCG, Oil & Gas, Property Development , Real Estate and Rail.

My many accomplishments including the setting up of talent acquisition teams, devising and implementing efficient and measurable strategies as well as successfully delivering on the staffing requirements for multi-billion dollar projects within strict timeframe and budgetary constraints.

I have led both onsite and virtual teams and have demonstrable leadership capabilities in fast-paced, change-oriented environments.

Allister is an accomplished Talent Acquisition professional currently serving as the Group Head of Talent Acquisition at Dechra Pharmaceuticals, where he has been for four years. His role involves leading a global talent acquisition function within the veterinary pharmaceuticals and animal health sector, spanning multiple continents, and covering all elements of Talent Acquisition, Talent Development and Employer Branding.

Simon is experienced in working across private sector in particular local government, social care and education. His specialism is recruitment and employee engagement, and he has experience across employee relations and L&D.

Experienced and insatiably curious Talent Acquisition Leader with a proven track record in the retail and manufacturing industry. I bring creativity and innovation to every recruitment challenge, along with a genuine passion for people strategies and employer branding.

With over 13 years experience of operating in various People & Talent roles mainly in technology, professional services, retail and media agencies. Chantelle predominately works with C-Suite/Leadership and Senior Talent professionals to create and deliver high growth alongside a focus on performance & process improvements and retention strategies.

Chantelle enjoys being involved in the wider talent community as I find it a great way to learn and stay on top of industry trends, insights and case studies.

Fuelled by a deep passion to use the transformative power of strategic leadership to shape the future of work.

I do this by cultivating positive and engaging environments for both current and potential employees to thrive and experience the enormous sense of worth, pride and achievement that great employers can provide.

My vision extends beyond traditional recruitment, I find that taking a broader and more innovative approach to talent acquisition results in far more successful, sustainable and profitable growth - which is good for business - and all current and future employees!

My career journey encompasses a spectrum of expertise, from crafting compelling employer brands and enhancing candidate experiences to driving resource planning, internal succession strategies, and shaping executive hires. I take immense pride in my contributions to early careers and diversity and inclusion initiatives.

With two decades devoted to Talent Acquisition, I am honoured to have recently been named the Talent Acquisition Leader of the Year 2023 at the prestigious IHR Awards—a recognition that fuels my passion for creating meaningful impact.

Beyond my professional pursuits, I am privileged to be a member of the RL100—a vibrant community of industry professionals united in challenging norms, sharing insights, and mentoring future talent acquisition leaders. My commitment extends beyond the boardroom, fuelled by a deep passion to cultivate positive and engaging environments for both current and potential employees.

As a thought leader, I believe in the transformative power of strategic leadership to shape the future of work. My vision extends beyond traditional recruitment, aiming to craft experiences that resonate, fostering growth, innovation, and inclusivity.

Let's connect, collaborate, and create a future where every talent is recognised, every voice is valued, and every workplace is a source of inspiration.

Just Eat Takeaway.com is a leading online food delivery marketplace, connecting consumers and restaurants through its platform in 24 countries.

Headquartered in Amsterdam, the company was created in January 2020 by bringing together two of the world’s most successful food delivery firms: Takeaway.com (founded in 2000 in the Netherlands) and Just Eat (founded in 2001 in Denmark).

Both companies were started by ambitious entrepreneurs who grew their businesses to be the number one food delivery players in their home markets and many others around the world. Today, Just Eat Takeaway.com is the leading global online food delivery marketplace outside China.

We haven’t stopped there. Our mission is to be the best food delivery company on the planet. And of course, that wouldn’t be possible without our 17,000 employees from around the world.

While we’re a big company, we’re united by our shared values and our commitment to delivering the best for our customers. We encourage our people to take initiative, experiment with big ideas, and above all, support each other.

Want to join our global journey? Check out our current job openings to see if there’s a role that’s right for you.

Oli currently leads on Talent Acquisition and Internal Mobility at Made Tech. He has a background across tech scaleups, especially in supporting neurodivergent and global tech talent communities. 

In a previous life, founded a travel tech business and a co-working space for neurodivergent community in London. 

Katie is a Recruiting Lead within the Experienced Hire Recruitment Team at Accenture. She's been with Accenture close to 11 years and have worked across a range of specialisms including HR, Digital, Sales, Consulting and Technology recruitment. Beyond her professional life, she is married with 2 young children and has 15 years’ worth of experience in the recruitment field.

In her current role, she manages a recruitment team overseeing a range of practices within Accenture Technology. She supports her team in creating robust partnerships with our stakeholders, aiming to significantly enhance the candidate experience. She is a firm believer in maintaining transparent communication with her hiring managers, striving to achieve excellence and mutual satisfaction across stakeholders, recruiters and candidates.

Cordelia is a Director and Consultant with 15+ years' experience leading diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), social mobility, and talent development initiatives across different sectors. At BT Group, she played a key role in developing its first comprehensive diversity and inclusion goals, integrating DEI into the Responsible business strategy, designing its first ever group-wide reciprocal mentoring program, and leading the first ethnicity pay gap report. Her impact earned her the 2024 BT Group Race Equity award. She has developed leadership programs for National Grid and the London Metropolitan Police and conducted a nationwide DEI review at the NSPCC. She has also provided consulting services to Tesco, Clarks, and the Ministry of Justice. 

As Operations Director at a youth employability charity, she managed 50+ CSR initiatives, and as Business Development Manager at a digital inclusion charity, she supported community-based charities in southern England. A Clore Social Fellow and trained coach, she is a Trustee at a multi-academy trust that supports 7,000 children across 10 schools. Cordelia has been recognised as the 2023 Baton Awards' Thought Leader of the Year, selected as a 2024 UN Women UK delegate, and honoured as "Community Champion" by Commonwealth Business Women Africa (CBW-Africa). She speaks regularly about DEI issues, leadership and social equity.

I've always been fascinated by technology. I can geek-out over the newest tech, jump into the metaverse and have a 2-hour conversation with Alexa.

However, it's how humans interact with and use technology that gets me every time. That's why I've fallen in love with chatbots and conversational ai. What better way is there to interact with technology than to have a chat with it. It's the most intuitive way to interact.