Making a Move Into Recruitment: Q&A With Andrew Harvey, CEO at VMA GROUP
We sat down with Andrew Harvey to discuss his journey from marketing and communications to becoming the CEO of VMA GROUP. With a background in business and a passion for marketing, Andrew transitioned into recruitment, where he has excelled and achieved leadership success.
Transitioning to Recruitment
Many in marketing and communications aspire to become CEOs, but few achieve it. Andrew Harvey wanted to move beyond a support role and become a business leader. Recruitment offered him this opportunity. He chose VMA GROUP for its strong brand recognition and leadership in the communications recruitment market. Now, 43 years on, VMA GROUP remains a leader in the field.
Leveraging Marketing Experience
Andrew’s background in communications and marketing provided him with an understanding of the roles he would recruit for. This knowledge allowed him to excel as a recruitment consultant quickly. His experience enabled him to identify the skills required for various roles, giving him a strong start in the industry.
Challenges and Insights as CEO
Facing Daily Challenges
As CEO, Andrew faces numerous challenges, from technology and legal issues to marketing and facilities management. The breadth of the role is significant, but having a great team is crucial. Hiring and retaining talent at VMA GROUP is a top priority to ensure the business delivers excellent results.
Advice for the Future
Andrew emphasizes the importance of continuous learning. The world and jobs are constantly evolving, so staying ahead of challenges is essential. He advises stepping outside of comfort zones for true development, even if it may be tough temporarily.
Maintaining Work/Life Balance
Recruitment is fast-paced and demanding, making it vital to relax and unwind. Andrew disconnects from work during evenings and weekends, allowing him to be more productive during the workweek.
Personal Reflections and Career Advice
Retirement Plans
If Andrew could retire anywhere, it would be in the North Cotswolds, where he was born and raised. He feels fortunate to enjoy both his career and personal life in such a beautiful area.
Advice for Career Movers
Andrew highly recommends moving from marketing or communications into recruitment. He advises considering the reasons carefully and being aware of both opportunities and challenges. Research is key, and he welcomes discussions with those interested in making the transition.
For more information about current roles, click here to view open vacancies, or email Andrew Harvey. To find out more about working for VMA GROUP, click here.
*VMA GROUP is a leading international interim and permanent communications, digital, and marketing recruitment and executive search specialist. Our practices cover corporate communications, internal communications, change communications, PR, media relations, CSR, public affairs, investor relations, marketing, digital, and agency services. We are known for providing leading consultancy services and advice, supported by in-depth knowledge of the professions we recruit for. Our thought leadership and benchmarking studies are go-to resources for the communications and marketing industry. VMA GROUP has offices in London, Manchester, Amsterdam, and Brussels, but we work globally.
