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Live from TEAM Network North West – What 2025 Taught Us & How Recruiters Win in 2026

1 hr 8 minWatch on YouTube (opens in a new tab)

About this episode

Nitin Sharma hosts a live panel discussion recorded at the TEAM Network North West Regional Meet Up, bringing together four experienced recruitment professionals to discuss the industry's performance in 2025 and strategy for 2026. Panellists Owain Wilson, Samantha Moore, Vincent Seddon and Kirsty Craig share candid insights on what worked, what failed, and why some agencies thrived whilst others struggled.

The conversation covers the widening gap between adaptable agencies and those resisting change, the necessity of diversification beyond contingent models into retained, RPO, temp and advisory services, and how recruitment businesses can improve employer branding and candidate experience. Panellists also discuss exit strategies, what makes a recruitment business saleable, and how clients often view recruitment as a distraction rather than a strategic priority.

The panel offers a grounded perspective on AI and automation as tools rather than silver bullets, emphasising that recruitment remains fundamentally a people business. The discussion includes practical takeaways, real-world war stories and predictions for 2026, designed to help agency owners future-proof their businesses.

Key takeaways

  • Diversification beyond contingent models into retained, RPO, temp and advisory services is no longer optional for many recruitment businesses.
  • The gap between agencies that adapt to market changes and those that stand still is becoming increasingly pronounced.
  • AI is a tool, not a silver bullet; recruitment success depends on people engagement and strong employer branding.
  • Most recruitment business owners lack a clear exit strategy despite needing to understand what makes their business saleable.
  • Clients often view recruitment as a distraction; agencies must reposition themselves to show strategic value.

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