As part of our You SCANtec series, we’re speaking to members of the Scantec team to find out more about their roles and what it’s like working here. This week, we caught up with Resourcing Specialist Jessica Downey who joined us in October 2021 and is already making waves in our Scientific team…
Hi Jessica! Can you start by telling us a bit about your role at Scantec?
Of course. As a Resourcing Specialist, I’m responsible for finding candidates for roles. Working closely with my colleague Lara, who focuses on business development, I source and qualify candidates whose skills, aspirations, and motivators align with the role and company. Ultimately, I ensure the process runs smoothly for both the candidate and the client, from shortlisting and interview to offer and onboarding.
Typically, Lab Technician, Regulatory Affairs, New Product Development, Chemist, QC Microbiology and Analytical Chemist roles make up the bulk of our work, encapsulating candidates at all levels, from graduates through to highly experienced professionals. Additionally, we work on Quality Control and Quality Assurance roles, with Operation Managers the most senior candidates we place.
What do you like best about your role?
I previously worked in a lab environment, so I love the freedom this job provides. I have more say in how my day is structured and have control of how my tasks are completed. Of course, best-laid plans sometimes have to change if an urgent role lands, but that’s really exciting. We get to collaborate with different teams on certain roles, which means no two days are the same.
Tell us about working in a lab. Does this help you at Scantec?
I was always good at science at school, which I carried on into higher education. However, during my second year at university, I realised that student life wasn’t for me. I was lucky enough to land a job as a Practitioner in an NHS blood science lab, which saw me analysing blood samples and conducting tests. It was an interesting two years, but the pandemic led me to seek a better work-life balance, so I began researching different careers, which eventually led me to recruitment.
My lab experience has been valuable when it comes to understanding job descriptions and finding the right people that organisations in this field are looking for. For example, following a lot of operating procedures is a prerequisite for lab work, so I know detail-oriented candidates typically thrive in this environment.
How are you finding the world of recruitment?
It’s great and suits me well. I did a lot of research before embarking on a career in recruitment, which can be overwhelming. The rhetoric tends to centre around how competitive and “cutthroat” the industry is. However, this couldn’t be further from my experience at Scantec. I was looking for a company that was supportive and inclusive, which I found. Everyone makes an effort to speak to each other and help out as much as possible. When I first started, Paul Bradley, who works in our FMCG team, scheduled a couple of hours to help me develop my candidate sourcing methods. I appreciated that he took the time out of his day to share his valuable insights and knowledge.
What benefits matter the most to you?
Receiving recognition and rewards for hard work is important. Scantec has an excellent commission structure centred around us beating our best, and we have initiatives like Team of the Month, which Scientific recently won. I have also won Recruitment Consultant of the Month during my time here. Even if you haven’t done as well as you wanted, everyone’s achievements are highlighted in regular company calls and meetings. This appreciation goes a long way with the team.
I also have complete clarity on career development opportunities, with an established plan to get me to where I want to be within a set timeframe. Initially, the goal was to take on more responsibility after a year, but I was able to bring this forward by six months due to my performance. Everything is transparent, with clear competency frameworks and a document we can access that shows every role and career path in Scantec and the pay bands for each. I’m just approaching six months with the company, and I already have a plan in place for my development.
What would you say to someone who was thinking about joining Scantec?
If you’re interested in a career in recruitment, I’d definitely recommend Scantec. I couldn’t imagine a nicer company to be part of. The level of support I received from day one has been incredible. Aside from my team, I also have a peer mentor who’s on hand if I ever need to talk or have a question. Everyone is accessible, and, crucially, they genuinely want you to succeed.
Find out how your career can flourish…
Scantec is passionate about finding and developing the absolute best talent for our business. If you’re new to recruitment or an experienced professional and want to learn how your career can grow at Scantec, we want to hear from you. Find out more or contact Andrea Davison at andread@scantec.co.uk today.
