Passionate people
Thomas Humphris , human resources director at Informa Markets , shares his views on recruitment challenges and how the events industry must market itself better to attract the next generation of talent . Informa Markets currently has 3,800 employees around the world
hat is the biggest recruitment
W challenge facing the industry now ? The post-pandemic world is a different one . We have learned the value of faceto-face more than ever before , and we have also learned the value of digital solutions that help us stay productive and add efficiency . Similarly , we have become accustomed to personalisation and customisation more than ever before , which requires a data-driven approach . Our customers have learned the same , and that has required a shift in thinking and strategy that is reflected in the talent we are seeking .
Marketing functions , in particular , have really changed and talent with data expertise in very high demand . Traditionally we have attracted exhibition industry talent , but we are now more diverse in our approach , and looking across multiple industries to ensure we have the right skillsets .
Could you share any initiatives you have implemented to help recruitment ? We have implemented a referral scheme where colleagues are monetarily incentivised for any hires that are made on their referral . We believe great talent
Thomas Humphris
knows great talent .
Being more diverse in our recruitment is one of our most important commitments . We are also searching for talent outside of our traditional office locations , and being more geographically diverse in our hiring .
What would you say to someone thinking of coming into the industry ? This is an industry of incredibly passionate people . There is a real tangible sense of achievement in running an exhibition , with thousands of people coming together over a few days . I think the industry in general has a great culture — it ’ s a people business , and it ’ s a very fun , fast-paced environment . We all work very hard and are very motivated , but we always have a bit of fun , too .
What do you think the industry can do to attract the next generation of talent ? I think it ’ s as simple as marketing ourselves better . There ’ s a perception that exhibitions are sort of an old-school model , but we do so much more than that , and even the model itself is growing and evolving . If you have a passion for fashion , are intrigued by nutrition , or motivated to get into healthcare , there is such a diverse variety of roles in each of those sectors . It also provides opportunity to try new roles , new industries , and even new locations .
We need to use new ways of showing prospective colleagues the vibrancy , excitement and opportunity in what we do , through social media , video content , and more . This is a great industry to work in , with boundless opportunity . EN
November — 31