The European Consumer Goods market is a dynamic industry, requiring specialised recruitment strategies to meet the demands of the region. Marc, a seasoned recruiter with Scottish-Italian heritage has built a successful career by focusing his skills on the continent; leveraging his deep industry knowledge and extensive network. In this article, Marc shares his insights and experiences, offering a glimpse into the world of European recruitment and the strategies that have helped him thrive.

Marc's week is structured to balance the demands of his clients and the ongoing need for networking. "My week is divided into two main areas," Marc explains. "First, I dedicate time to supporting my existing clients, ensuring I’m available to address their needs and provide whatever assistance they require. The remainder of my time is focused on networking—connecting with top talent in the market and engaging with senior leaders across Europe. This helps me stay on top of any potential movements, expand my network, and continuously enhance my knowledge." This approach allows Marc to remain responsive to his clients while also staying ahead of market trends and building relationships with professionals in the industry.

Marc's decision to specialise in the European Operations market was driven by both personal interest and professional alignment. "The European market appealed to me because of its diverse cultures and backgrounds, meaning conversations are always interesting," Marc says. "I’ve always had a genuine interest in the packaging industry since first connecting with individuals ; it’s technically demanding and highly innovative."

The emphasis on innovation and technical expertise aligns with Marc's methodology. "The European market matches perfectly with my recruitment approach, where building strong relationships is key. Companies here value a recruiter they can trust to consistently deliver high-quality service and develop a deep understanding of their business."

Marc’s Process

Each client is unique, and Marc tailors his recruitment services accordingly. "From the initial call, I focus on asking the right questions to gather all the necessary information," he explains. This approach allows him to identify the best candidates for each specific client, ensuring a tailored and effective recruitment process.

In the industry, identifying and engaging the right candidates is crucial. For Marc, LinkedIn and his network are indispensable tools. "LinkedIn and my network are my biggest tools! Ultimately, it starts with an understanding of what my clients need and matching that up with potential profiles based on their experience and skill set," he explains. Marc's approach to candidate outreach is thoughtful and personalised. "I then reach out by sending a message and introducing myself, explaining my reasons for the approach. I want to ensure the candidate knows I’m not wasting their time and have an amazing opportunity which may be perfect for them! The aim is to arrange an initial call to discuss further."

Marc's recruitment process is thorough, ensuring that both clients and candidates are well-matched. "The process starts with a thorough discussion with my client to fully understand their needs, including both the technical and cultural fit for the role," he says. This understanding forms the foundation for the entire recruitment journey. Once the position is advertised on various platforms, Marc begins his search for the best candidates. Initial calls with candidates serve as a critical screening tool, allowing Marc to assess their experience, qualifications, and goals. Candidates who pass this stage receive detailed information about the role, ensuring they are fully informed before their application is introduced to the client.

Communication and transparency are key throughout the process. "I outline all expectations, provide interview availability, and manage the entire process to ensure everything runs smoothly," Marc explains. Even after candidates are placed, Marc remains available for support and follow-up, ensuring a smooth transition into their new roles.

Matching Clients and Candidates

One of the challenges in recruitment is aligning client expectations with market realities. Marc handles this by maintaining strong partnerships with his clients. "My clients appreciate my industry knowledge and insights," he says. "If there are any differences in expectations, I address them with feedback and work together to align our goals." Technical roles, particularly within engineering, are among the most challenging to recruit for. "Within the technical (engineering) departments, certainly! This is a common trend amongst businesses across Europe," Marc acknowledges. However, his extensive network and proven track record in this area give him an edge, making him a valuable partner for clients struggling to find the right talent.

For candidates looking to secure roles in the European market, Marc emphasises the importance of a strong LinkedIn presence. "LinkedIn is increasingly used by recruiters and internal talent acquisition teams. To ensure you’re easily found and matched with potential opportunities, keep your profile fully updated with all your experience and skills listed," he advises. Building and maintaining relationships with recruiters is also crucial, as opportunities can arise when least expected.

Looking Ahead

Marc anticipates significant changes in the European recruitment landscape, particularly as sustainability becomes a more prominent focus. "As sustainability becomes more critical, I believe demand will rise for professionals with eco-friendly expertise," he predicts. Additionally, the need for technical skills and industry-specific knowledge will continue to grow, alongside an increasing emphasis on diversity and inclusion.

For Marc, the most rewarding aspects of his job are the impact he has on his clients and the candidates he places. "Being truly valued by my clients—it’s an amazing feeling knowing you are playing a part in the success and growth of their business whilst being shown the appreciation for your work," he shares. "Placing individuals into their dream jobs—there’s no more rewarding feeling than this!"

One of Marc's favourite success stories involves helping a candidate from the UK relocate to the Netherlands to be closer to family. Despite challenges in the market, Marc's persistence and commitment to the candidate's needs paid off. "Two months later, the candidate and their family successfully moved back home. They were thrilled and thanked me with a video call once they were settled," Marc recalls. This story highlights the profound impact that recruiters can have on people's lives, a testament to the value of Marc's work.

In conclusion, Marc's expertise in the European market is a product of his dedication, industry knowledge, and commitment to building strong relationships. His insights offer valuable guidance for both clients and candidates navigating this specialised field, and his success stories demonstrate the meaningful impact of effective recruitment.

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