Helen Francis

Recruitment Business Partner

Career background:

I’m finally switching back to the corporate world after running my own successful housekeeping and small events company for the last 7 years (I guess that itch is actually a thing!)

I built up a brilliant client base over that time, and the fact that all customers became good friends is a testament to a well-carved-out business. I’ve left it running on a scaled-down basis with the help of two of my glamourous assistants. My poor back also couldn’t hack the pace anymore. The joys of reaching my 40’s!

Prior to this, I worked for IPC Media/Time Warner for 10 years as PA to the Editor/Office Manager. I looked after a team of approximately 40 and was the first point of contact for staff, freelancers, facilities, visitors, agents etc.

I thrived in this job and loved the buzz of the publishing/entertainment sector and was a dab hand at organising our London Fashion Week shows, launch parties and private events.

3 words that sum up your recruiting approach:

Focused, Organised, Creative!

What do you bring to team SRG?

I’m a great communicator and focus on building great rapports with clients and my team. I have always been mindful of people’s needs and great at adapting to situations. I’m pretty adept at staying calm in challenging situations. I can be creative and ambitious and try to maintain a positive outlook. I love being kept busy so this is definitely the right move for me!

Top Recruiting tip:

BREATHE! Taking a moment to breathe and reground yourself can help alleviate stress and maintain focus during the recruitment process.

What do you drive? Can you change a tire?

I drive a black Mercedes A200. While I prefer to call for assistance, I realize the importance of learning to change a tire, especially given the number of potholes I tend to encounter.

If you could take a trip in an RV anywhere, where would you go?

I would travel through the Deep South, visiting Nashville, Memphis, and New Orleans with a stop at Dollywood. Aside from being happy to embrace my Dolly Parton at any given opportunity, I was meant to take this trip years ago with a friend but she ended up going without me. Yes, I’m still bitter about it!

Boat or motorbike? And who would you take?

Boat (about to start sailing lessons again) and I’d take someone who could take over when I get seasick! I’m the worst at doing it but just love the water.