Rec Scale Up Podcast

In this episode of Talking Recruitment, REC Chief Executive Neil Carberry OBE is joined by James Osborne, Founder of The Recruitment Network (TRN), to explore how the role of recruiters is evolving in a complex and fast-changing market. The conversation looks at the shift away from purely transactional recruitment towards deeper client partnerships, with Neil and James discussing how the strongest recruiters are increasingly acting as consultants, helping organisations understand skills shortages, workforce planning and long-term talent strategy. In a market shaped by hesitation, cost pressures and uneven demand, this advisory role is becoming a clear differentiator. The episode also looks ahead at how recruitment models are changing, including the impact of technology, data and AI on how agencies operate and deliver value. Neil and James discuss what recruiters need to stay ahead of that change, from skills and mindset to the support structures around them. The new partnership between REC and TRN is design