A Manchester recruitment firm is challenging gender stereotypes in the industry after announcing two female additions to its senior management team.
The City Recruiter, which is hoping to quadruple its headcount by year end, is reshaping the landscape of recruitment with the appointment of Melissa Smart as the new Head of Operations and Danielle Finney as Head of Recruitment.
The duo, who are based at the company’s new HQ in Cardinal House, are experienced professionals who are determined to create a more supportive and inclusive industry as part of the firm’s gender equality strategy.
Melissa assumed her role as the Head of Operations in July and brings with her an impressive track record in recruitment spanning over 12 years.
Her career includes stints at renowned firms like Robert Walters Group and global recruitment consultancy, Resource Solutions, where she notably spearheaded the transformation of the EMEA direct sourcing function.
Melissa’s extensive experience in managing recruitment firms and executing large-scale programs has positioned her as a vital figure in The City Recruiter’s growth trajectory.
She said: “I’m really looking forward to helping the company in its next phase of growth. With a strategic emphasis on operational excellence, efficiency, and innovation, my role is to ensure our organisation is strategically positioned for success and establish ourselves as the premier recruitment firm in Manchester.
“Aside from this, I’m also committed to fostering a workplace culture that recognises and embraces the unique needs of working parents in recruitment, while also championing women in an industry that hasn’t always embraced diversity.
“I want to use my experience of being a working mum to reshape the landscape of recruitment because I understand that the challenges of balancing a fulfilling career with the responsibilities of parenthood can be demanding.
“I also want to create an environment where working parents can thrive, contribute, and excel in their roles while also prioritising their family commitments, which is something the firm values a lot.”
Newly promoted, Danielle Finney, has stepped up from her previous Talent Acquisition Manager role at the company and brings 14 years of recruitment experience to the table.
Despite facing similar challenges of raising a family throughout her career, Danielle continued to win accolades such as the Red Man award and becoming the North-West’s top biller at Adecco before moving to Vitality where she was promoted to Recruitment Manager covering Stockport and Bournemouth. She also supported overseas operations while successfully managing a team remotely during the pandemic.
Danielle, who started with the business in November 2021, will now play more of a strategic role at The City Recruiter and determine new processes, systems and KPIs for the business’ ambitious goals.
“I’m delighted to be recognised for my hard work and commitment to the company,” she said.
“I am also proud to see more women in leadership positions. Recruitment has historically been a male dominated industry, but my stance has always been getting the right person for the job, regardless of gender.
“Over the years I’ve had the pleasure of making a real impact on people’s lives both professionally and personally as placing someone in their dream job is incredibly rewarding.
“The City Recruiter has established strong partnerships with businesses and as we continue to grow our team of expert recruiters, the aim is to disrupt the global marketplace.
“With our senior leadership team, alongside new systems and processes being implemented, people can expect big things and I’m proud to be part of that. We have exciting times ahead.”
