​Recruiting for specialised industries in the U.S. market comes with unique challenges and rewards. Cian Scully, a recruiter at Alexander Steele based in Edinburgh, has developed a deep understanding of the U.S. Food & Beverage Ingredients sector, drawing from his background in Food Science & Technology to connect talent with companies in meaningful ways. His expertise goes beyond merely filling roles; he focuses on building long-term relationships and creating placements that benefit both client and candidate.

Working across time zones is one of the key challenges Cian faces, requiring him to structure his day for maximum efficiency. "My primary role is to connect talented individuals with new opportunities in the flavours and ingredients space within the U.S.," Cian explains. His mornings are spent on business development, headhunting, and administrative tasks, while his afternoons and evenings—when U.S. clients are most active—are focused on candidate outreach and client communication. "I often work late into the evening to facilitate clients and candidates," he says, underscoring the importance of strong organisational skills. His ability to build trust with both sides leads to placements that are mutually beneficial.

Cian’s career trajectory in the Food & Beverage Ingredients market stems from his Food Science & Technology background. His initial experience in Animal Nutrition provided him with a valuable network in the U.S., making his transition to Food & Beverage Ingredients a natural step. "I started in Animal Nutrition and had already built strong U.S. connections before moving into the Food & Beverage sector," he says. His passion for the industry further fuels his success, as he stays informed on trends and opportunities, giving him a clear understanding of the qualifications companies are seeking.

One of Cian’s key strategies is proactive recruitment, often headhunting passive candidates rather than waiting for active job seekers. "I have a large network that I can tap into," he notes. "Many of the candidates I place aren’t actively looking for a new job, but I approach them with opportunities that align with their long-term goals." This approach allows Cian to present roles that go beyond offering a salary bump. Instead, he focuses on candidates’ career progression, location preferences, and desired challenges. "Different people have different motivations for changing jobs," he explains, stressing the importance of understanding each candidate’s unique drivers.

Managing expectations is a crucial part of the recruitment process, and Cian emphasises the need for transparency from the outset. "Asking difficult questions early on and being completely honest with both parties helps prevent surprises later in the process," he advises. By fostering open communication, Cian ensures smoother placements and a better alignment between the company’s needs and the candidate’s goals.

Staying on top of industry trends is vital in the fast-moving U.S. Food & Beverage Ingredients market, and Cian uses a multi-faceted approach to stay informed. "Most of my information comes from talking to people day in and day out," he shares. By maintaining regular contact with both candidates and companies, he stays up-to-date on developments such as new product launches, market demand shifts, and hiring trends. This not only enhances his ability to serve his clients but also provides candidates with valuable insights into the market.

Cian has observed some notable differences between the two. "The U.S. tends to offer higher salaries and more comprehensive packages," he says. Additionally, U.S. companies are often more open to working with specialist recruitment firms, making it easier for recruiters like Cian to play a strategic role in the hiring process. Another distinction is the speed of recruitment in the U.S. "A recruitment process in the U.S. can often be wrapped up in about four weeks, from introduction to placement," Cian notes, thanks in part to the shorter, two-week notice periods typical in the U.S., compared to the longer notice periods in the U.K.

Cian’s success in the American Food & Beverage Ingredients market is built on a combination of industry expertise, networking skills, and a commitment to transparency and relationship-building. His systematic approach to recruitment, coupled with his deep understanding of the industry, has made him a sought-after recruiter in this specialised field. By taking the time to understand the nuances of both the market and the individuals he works with, Cian creates lasting connections that benefit both companies and candidates.

If you’re looking to grow your business in the Food & Beverage Ingredients sector or explore new career opportunities in this market, Cian is here to help. With his industry knowledge, extensive network, and commitment to building long-lasting relationships, he is well-positioned to connect companies with top talent and guide candidates toward their next career move. Reach out to Cian today to discuss how he can support your growth and success in this specialised field.