Meet the Team - Theola Palha

Recruitment is a people business, and relationship building is at the forefront of our industry. That's why we thought it important to introduce you to the people behind Connect2Swindon!

Today, we speak to Theola, our Senior Customer Service & Resourcing Assistant…

1.  Tell us about your working background?

I come from a people focused and customer care background, and over the years have worked in a variety of roles including banking, customer service, payroll, benefits, employee solutions, and recently a PA to a CFO in a healthcare company. Recruitment was an area I hadn’t yet worked in, but something I was keen to move into. When the opportunity to join Connect2Swindon came along, the timing was perfect, and I didn’t want to miss the chance.

2.  What is your role at Connect2Swindon?

I am the Senior Customer Service & Resourcing Assistant at Connect2Swindon. No two days are the same, and I'm learning something new all the time. My role is to support the Talent Partners and wider team by ensuring they have the information they need to do their jobs effectively. I use my knowledge of the council to support placements, manage timesheets, build relationships with hiring managers and act as a link between different teams. Ultimately, I'm here to help make the recruitment process as smooth and efficient as possible.

3.  What do you like about working in recruitment?

Having always worked in people-focused roles, recruitment feels like a natural fit for me. I enjoy being able to make a meaningful impact by helping people achieve their career goals. Every day brings something different, whether that's meeting new people, building relationships or learning something new. I genuinely enjoy the variety that recruitment offers and look forward to continuing to grow within the industry.

4.  What are you most looking forward to about your new role?

I'm most excited about the opportunities for progression and development, and I'm really looking forward to meeting more people across the business. Most importantly, I want to make a positive impact and contribute to the continued success of the business.

5.  What do you enjoy doing in your spare time?

A lot of my spare time is spent with my family. I have a two year old daughter who is growing up incredibly quickly, and my first baby, a chocolate Labrador, who definitely keeps me on my toes! They both keep life busy and entertaining. I also love travelling whenever I get the opportunity. I'm heading to Sweden and Paris this month, so I always enjoy having a trip to look forward to. Spending quality time with my husband, daughter and wider family is really important to me.

6.  Any top tips for jobseekers?

My biggest piece of advice is to tailor your CV to each role you apply for, even if it's only making a few small changes. It can make a huge difference and shows recruiters that you've taken the time to understand the role and how your skills align with it. I'd also encourage people not to be put off if they don't meet every single requirement. Sometimes it's your willingness to learn, positive attitude and confidence that can help you stand out. I'm a great example of that myself. I didn't come from a recruitment background, but my enthusiasm to learn and develop gave me the opportunity to move into recruitment and succeed in the role.

To find out more about what we do and how Theola and the team can support you, reach out by emailing info@connect2swindon.co.uk