In this episode, Andy Simpson sits down with Kalpesh Baxi, recruitment leader, advisor, and former UK Senior Partner of SThree PLC to explore what it takes to thrive in today’s evolving hiring landscape. They talk about the importance of culture in scaling teams, the impact of generational shifts in the workplace, and how technology is changing the way recruitment businesses operate.

Kalpesh shares stories from his 20+ year journey in the recruitment world, including what made SThree such a strong platform for high performers, the lessons he's learned from working across geographies, and why human connection still drives the best results even in an AI-powered world.

Whether you’re running an agency, leading a team, or just thinking about what’s next in your career, this conversation is packed with practical insight and candid reflections.

🎙 Key Topics:

🔹 What makes great culture in high-performing teams
🔹 How recruitment leaders should adapt to generational shifts
🔹 Why being open to discomfort fuels career growth
🔹 The role of authenticity and transparency in leadership
🔹 The balance between people, process, and tech in recruitment

Tune in for a grounded, engaging conversation on leadership, learning, and the mindset needed to succeed in the recruitment industry.

Show Notes & Timestamps

[00:00] – Opening & Introduction

Andy introduces Kalpesh and frames the episode

Early lessons from growing up in a working-class household

[03:00] – Recruitment Beginnings & Early Influence

How Kalpesh found recruitment and stayed for 22 years

Lessons from the early SThree culture and environment

[09:00] – Leading Through Culture

What makes a good culture

Why authenticity and people-first values matter

The power of curiosity and transparency in leadership

[18:00] – Generational Shifts in Work

How Gen Z and millennials are reshaping the workplace

What modern leadership needs to look like

Balancing career progression with life priorities

[30:00] – Building for the Future

The role of AI in recruitment and business

The importance of simplicity and clarity in process

Finding meaning and momentum in moments of discomfort

[42:00] – Final Thoughts & Reflections

Why recruitment is still a people business

The value of working with good humans

Final advice on leadership, risk, and reinvention