Leadership in Executive Search & Recruiting: 30 Key Thought Leaders in the Executive Search & Recruiting Industries

Leadership in Executive Search & Recruiting Key Thought Leaders in the Executive Search & Recruiting Industries

Thought leaders bring a wealth of knowledge, innovative strategies, and industry insights that can transform your hiring practices and talent acquisition. 

They not only guide through the complexities of the recruiting process but also forecast emerging trends in the workforce. 

However, finding the right key thought leaders in the executive search and recruiting industry is difficult, with so many people being vocal on social media. 

You're on the right page to solve that problem because we'll help you identify and learn from these industry leaders.

Let’s dive in.

Who Are Executive Search & Recruiting Thought Leaders? [And Why Follow Them]

Executive search and recruiting thought leaders are experts who have mastered the art of talent acquisition and human resources management. Following them offers you direct access to pioneering strategies, cutting-edge industry trends, and practical advice on navigating the complexities of the recruitment process. 

Basically, they share insights that can significantly enhance your hiring practices, helping you attract and retain top talent more effectively. By leveraging their knowledge, you position yourself to make informed decisions, stay ahead of the curve, and drive your organization's success in a competitive job market.

Top 30 Executive Search & Recruiting Thought Leaders in 2024

1. Liz Ryan

Liz Ryan

Business website: Human Workplace

Social media profiles: LinkedIn, Twitter

Follow for: Insights on consulting, leadership, recruiting, career advice, and HR leadership.

Liz Ryan is the founder and CEO of Human Workplace, a coaching and consulting firm that is also a global movement with over three million members. Recognized as a LinkedIn Top Voice and a prolific keynote speaker, Ryan has authored influential books such as "REINVENTION ROADMAP," "RIGHTEOUS RECRUITING," and "RED-BLOODED HR." Based in the New York City Metropolitan Area, she is dedicated to reinventing work for people. Human Workplace's mission is to help individuals make their next, best career move and assist executives and HR professionals create cultures that attract top talent.

What you can learn from Liz Ryan: 

By following Liz Ryan, you'll gain access to transformative advice on navigating the new millennium workplace, from making significant career moves to enhancing HR practices within your organization. Her expertise offers practical strategies for individuals seeking to advance in their current roles or undergoing a career change and for leaders aiming to build a culture where talented people thrive. Her approach to career development and organizational culture is not just about success in the workplace but also achieving the life you deserve.

2. J.T. O'Donnell

JT O'Donnell

Business website: workitdaily.com

Social media profiles: LinkedIn, Twitter

Follow for: Expertise in jobs, careers, job search, job seekers, and career coaching.

J.T. O'Donnell, the founder and CEO of Work It DAILY and a board member and CMO at McCoy, brings over 18 years of experience in the career coaching and HR & recruiting industry. Based in Portsmouth, New Hampshire, O'Donnell has a rich background in developing and delivering professional and executive-level career management and outplacement services. With experience managing teams of 5-50+ and budgets ranging from $1M to $35M+, her specialties include executive coaching, job search strategy, career assessment, outplacement services, and more.

What you can learn from J.T. O'Donnell: 

Following J.T. O'Donnell, you'll discover invaluable career advice and job search strategies that can revolutionize your approach to finding and securing the right job. Her guidance on personal branding, resume design, LinkedIn profile optimization, and interview preparation can significantly increase your visibility and attractiveness to potential employers. Additionally, O'Donnell's insights into employer branding, recruitment marketing, and talent retention strategies offer crucial knowledge for professionals aiming to excel in HR and talent management.

3. Josh Bersin

Josh Bersin

Business website: The Josh Bersin Company

Social media profiles: LinkedIn, Twitter

Follow for: Comprehensive insights into HR, business leadership, corporate learning and development (L&D), recruiting, and HR technology.

Josh Bersin is a globally recognized industry analyst, researcher, and educator deeply immersed in all facets of HR, training, talent management, recruiting, leadership, and workplace technology. As the founder of Bersin & Associates, now Bersin by Deloitte, Bersin has established himself as a key figure in shaping modern HR practices. He is a sought-after keynote speaker, advising HR teams and vendors in the HR space. His work as an educator, thought leader, and personal coach spans the globe, aiming to improve work-life by fostering world-leading HR practices.

What you can learn from Josh Bersin: 

Following Josh Bersin gives you access to a wealth of knowledge on navigating the ever-evolving landscape of workplace technology and HR practices. His research and analysis offer actionable insights for HR professionals and business leaders looking to enhance their organization's talent management strategies and employee experience. Additionally, as the Dean of the Josh Bersin Academy, Bersin provides educational opportunities for HR professionals to deepen their expertise and stay at the forefront of industry practices, ultimately leading to more effective and innovative HR solutions.

4. Greg Savage

Greg Savage

Business website: The Savage Recruitment Academy

Social media profiles: LinkedIn

Follow for: Expertise in recruitment, recruitment leadership, and strategies for starting, managing, and growing recruitment companies.

Greg Savage is a seasoned expert with four decades of robust experience in the recruitment industry. Recognized as a LinkedIn 'Top Voices' in 2018, Savage has a track record of founding and scaling highly successful recruitment businesses, including Recruitment Solutions, Firebrand Talent Search, Eloquent Staffing, and People2People, with two reaching successful exits via trade sales and one through an IPO. He authored two best-selling books, "The Savage Truth" and "Recruit. The Savage Way," offering deep insights into the recruitment process and industry. Savage also founded The Savage Recruitment Academy, sharing his tactics and strategies that have proven successful worldwide.

What you can learn from Greg Savage: 

Greg Savage can unlock a treasure trove of knowledge on effective recruitment practices, leadership in recruitment, and the nuances of building a successful recruitment business. His books and teachings provide actionable advice and strategies for recruiters at all levels, from starting to seasoned professionals looking to innovate and expand. Savage's guidance is grounded in real-world experience, offering practical tactics to achieve sustainable growth.

5. Johnny Campbell

Johnny Campbell

Business website: SocialTalent

Social media profiles: LinkedIn, Facebook

Follow for: Insights into diversity, recruitment, talent acquisition, candidate experience, and learning and development.

Johnny Campbell, CEO and Co-Founder of SocialTalent, has been instrumental in building better workplaces through world-class learning since 2010. Based in Dublin, Ireland, Campbell and his business partner, Vince, launched SocialTalent, the world's most popular learning experience platform for hiring. Under his leadership, SocialTalent has assisted over 500 companies in hiring over 1 million people in 2018 alone. With a team of over 70 people, SocialTalent operates globally, providing services to enterprise clients across the US, UK, and Northern Europe. Beyond his professional pursuits, Campbell is a devoted family man, raising four boys with his wife, Jill, and maintains a keen interest in reading, podcasts, running, and cycling.

What you can learn from Johnny Campbell: 

Johnny Campbell teaches innovative strategies and best practices in recruitment and talent acquisition, emphasizing diversity and candidate experience. His platform, SocialTalent, offers a plethora of learning materials designed to enhance the skills of hiring professionals worldwide. Campbell's approach to recruitment combines practical insights with a focus on continuous learning and development, ensuring that followers are equipped with the latest tools and techniques to attract, engage, and retain top talent effectively.

6. Joel Lalgee

Business website: The Realest Recruiter

Social media profiles: LinkedIn, Twitter

Joel Lalgee

Follow for: Real-world insights on talent, recruiting, recruitment, talent acquisition, and recruitment marketing.

Joel Lalgee, known as the Realest Recruiter, offers a fresh perspective in the recruitment industry, focusing on genuine and effective talent acquisition strategies. Without the label of a LinkedIn top voice or top influencer, Lalgee proves that substantial value comes from authentic engagement and expertise. He manages a diverse portfolio of searches and accounts across various industries, providing tailored solutions for clients and candidates alike. In addition to his recruitment work, Lalgee is dedicated to helping recruitment teams worldwide enhance their online presence and attract top talent through social media content. His comprehensive training program, including a two-day workshop followed by a year of coaching sessions, has solidified his reputation as a key resource for recruitment professionals.

What you can learn from Joel Lalgee: 

By following Joel Lalgee, you'll gain access to actionable advice on navigating the complexities of modern recruitment and talent acquisition. His approach to building brands online and leveraging social media for recruitment offers practical tactics for standing out in a competitive market. With over 400k followers across social platforms, Lalgee's insights into content creation and brand engagement are invaluable for recruitment teams and HR professionals looking to elevate their recruitment marketing strategies. His experience working with leading TA/HR brands on content creation, brand deals, and speaking events showcases the effectiveness of his methods in attracting and retaining top talent.

7. Andy Headworth

Business website: HM Revenue & Customs   

Social media profiles: LinkedIn, Twitter

Andy Headworth

Follow for: Expertise in recruitment transformations, Total Workforce Solutions, and the integration of generative AI technologies like ChatGPT in talent acquisition.

Andy Headworth, currently the Head of Talent Acquisition, has a distinguished track record of leading significant recruitment transformations at HMRC, focusing on critical projects such as Digital, Brexit, and Covid. He introduced the concept of a Total Workforce Solution, encompassing all forms of resourcing. With a passion for leveraging generative AI technologies to enhance recruitment strategies, Headworth is committed to building an inclusive talent pool and making HMRC an employer of choice. His work in developing the employer brand and EVP has been groundbreaking, showcasing HMRC as an exceptional workplace.

What you can learn from Andy Headworth: 

Andy Headworth explains how to navigate and lead large-scale recruitment transformations effectively. His innovative approach to integrating generative AI, such as ChatGPT, into talent acquisition processes exemplifies forward-thinking in HR. Headworth's insights into creating and implementing successful recruitment strategies, social media recruitment, and building a standout employer help you attract and retain top talent in a rapidly evolving job market. His experience in managing diverse forms of resourcing also provides a comprehensive view of modern talent acquisition challenges and solutions.

8. Gary Swart

Business website: Polaris Partners

Social media profiles: LinkedIn, Twitter

Gary Swart

Follow for: Expertise in the future of work, healthcare technology, and entrepreneurship, including insights into management, staffing, and online marketplace strategies.

Gary Swart is a seasoned tech and healthcare investor and former executive with a rich history of leading organizations across various sizes and stages. As the former CEO of oDesk (now Upwork), the world's largest online workplace, Swart played a pivotal role in steering the company to industry leadership, culminating in a merger with Elance. His passion for the future of work and the online work industry has made him a leading voice, offering mentorship and sharing insights to help entrepreneurs and professionals navigate career paths. With a career that spans from entrepreneurial ventures to an executive role at IBM, Swart has demonstrated exceptional skill in building high-performance teams and leading through periods of significant change and disruption.

What you can learn from Gary Swart: 

Gary Swart boasts unparalleled insights into workplace dynamics, particularly in the tech and healthcare sectors. His experiences offer practical advice on management fundamentals, effective interviewing and staffing methods, and entrepreneurship. Swart's guidance is invaluable for those looking to adapt to the future of work or to innovate within the health tech and service industries. His strategic approach to online marketplaces and sales strategies provides a blueprint for success in digital and traditional business environments alike. 

9. Jan Tegze

Business website: Tricentis

Jan Tegze

Social media profiles: LinkedIn, Twitter

Follow for: Advanced insights into career development, sourcing, job search, recruitment, and talent acquisition strategies.

Jan Tegze, Director of Talent Acquisition and a LinkedIn Top Voice, is a seasoned Talent Acquisition Leader known for his results-oriented approach and track record of leading high-performing teams across EMEA, AMER, and APAC regions. Specializing in transforming and building teams, Tegze drives business strategies forward through innovative talent solutions. His passion for attracting top talent and aligning talent strategies with company missions has led to significant achievements in team building, recruitment strategy, and operations. Tegze is the author of the bestselling book "Full Stack Recruiter," an invaluable resource for recruitment professionals, and the creator of Sourcing.Games, enhancing the skills of recruiters and sourcing specialists worldwide.

What you can learn from Jan Tegze: 

Following Jan Tegze provides a unique opportunity to learn from a global recruiting expert. His expertise covers a wide range of areas, including technical recruiting, diversity hiring, AI in recruiting, employer branding, social media recruiting, and executive search. Tegze's approach to recruitment strategy and consulting, along with his advanced boolean search techniques and sourcing strategies, offers valuable insights for improving recruitment processes and outcomes. His dedication to training and development, combined with his innovative tools like Sourcing.Games, equips recruitment professionals with the knowledge and skills needed to excel in today's competitive job market.

10. Hung Lee

Business website: Recruiting Brainfood

Hung Lee

Social media profiles: LinkedIn, Twitter

Follow for: Insightful commentary on culture, society, community, and recruitment, distilled through the lens of Recruiting Brainfood.

Hung Lee, based in London, England, is a distinguished figure in the recruitment industry with over 15 years of diverse experience. His career spans roles from agency recruiter and recruitment manager to Internal Head of Talent and recruitment trainer. Lee is the founder of the award-winning online recruiting platform WorkShape.io and is currently the editor and community builder of Recruiting Brainfood, widely regarded as the best weekly newsletter in recruitment. His work is dedicated to providing more signal and less noise, making complex topics in recruitment and HR accessible and engaging for professionals across the globe.

What you can learn from Hung Lee: 

Hung Lee reveals a curated selection of insights on how culture, society, and community dynamics influence recruitment. Lee's expertise not only covers the mechanics of recruitment but also delves into the broader implications of hiring practices on organizational culture and societal structures. His newsletter is an invaluable resource for recruitment professionals seeking to broaden their understanding and improve their practices in a thoughtful, informed manner. Moreover, Recruiting Brainfood offers a unique blend of industry news, trends, and thought leadership.

11. Glen Cathey

Glen Cathey

Business website: Randstad

Social media profiles: LinkedIn, Twitter

Follow for: Advanced strategies in talent acquisition, sourcing, recruiting, and insights into leveraging technology and data analytics in HR.

Glen Cathey is a visionary talent acquisition leader and global keynote speaker, deeply influenced by seminal works such as "Drive," "Talent Is Overrated," "Start With Why," "Exponential Organizations," and "The Advantage." His passion encompasses making a significant difference, advocating for diversity, inclusion, and belonging, and pushing the boundaries in sourcing, recruiting, innovation, and digital strategy. He is also a proponent of massively using technology, data, and analytics. Cathey has been pivotal as a thought leader in sourcing, social recruiting strategies, technologies, and processes for firms achieving over 2 million hires annually. He has played critical roles in ATS/CRM and resume parsing/search/matching solution implementations. Cathey has also managed large, diverse sourcing and recruiting teams, including a National Recruiting Center with over 300 associates.

What you can learn from Glen Cathey: 

Glen Cathey gives you top insights into cutting-edge talent acquisition strategies and the effective use of technology to enhance recruiting efforts. His expertise in ethical AI/machine learning, data and analytics, automation, and digital strategy can transform how you approach talent sourcing and recruitment. Cathey's knowledge in information retrieval, semantic and Boolean search techniques, and his emphasis on leadership development offer valuable lessons for hiring, training, and leading recruiters in today's competitive and technologically driven landscape. 

12. Katrina Collier

Katrina Collier

Business website: katrinacollier.com

Social media profiles: LinkedIn, Twitter

Follow for: Insights on improving HR practices, recruitment processes, talent acquisition strategies, and enhancing candidate experiences to become "robot-proof."

Katrina Collier is a renowned facilitator, speaker, and author based in London, England, dedicated to fixing the recruitment problems technology can't solve. She is the mind behind "The Robot-Proof Recruiter," a book that helps recruiters navigate the complexities of the modern job market by emphasizing the human aspect of recruiting. Besides her literary contribution, Collier's work extends to hosting the podcast "The Damage of Words," where she explores themes of self-healing and mastery. Through design thinking workshops, retreats, one-to-one mentoring, and global keynote speaking engagements across five continents, Katrina Collier aids companies in refining their recruitment processes and candidate experience.

What you can learn from Katrina Collier: 

Katrina Collier uncovers the essential elements of a recruitment process that values human interaction over automation, ensuring your practices are "robot-proof." Her expertise in HR, talent acquisition, and candidate experience provides actionable strategies for attracting and engaging candidates effectively in a technology-driven world. Collier's approach helps recruiters and HR professionals develop skills that technology cannot replicate, fostering genuine connections with candidates and improving the overall recruitment process. Her work offers a comprehensive understanding of navigating recruitment challenges with empathy, innovation, and strategic thinking.

13. Jim Stroud

Jim Stroud

Business website: blog.jimstroud.com

Social media profiles: LinkedIn, Twitter

Follow for: Expert strategies in sourcing, recruiting, and leveraging digital media for talent acquisition, coupled with insights into competitive intelligence and online community management.

With over a decade of experience, Jim Stroud has established himself as a foremost expert in sourcing and recruiting strategy, public speaking, lead generation, and digital content creation, including video production and podcasting. Having consulted for tech giants like Microsoft and Google, as well as working with Randstad Sourceright and Proactive Talent, Stroud has significantly contributed to alleviating the sourcing and recruiting challenges of global clients. He's an accomplished creator, having developed five online properties, managed an award-winning blog, and produced engaging content across various platforms. Notably, Stroud has been recognized by leading publications and has shared his expertise as a keynote speaker at numerous international conferences. He is also the author of five HR-related books and the producer of "The Jim Stroud Show" on YouTube and "The Jim Stroud Podcast."

What you can learn from Jim Stroud: 

Following Jim Stroud equips you with advanced knowledge on enhancing your sourcing and recruiting practices through innovative strategies and digital media utilization. His insights into competitive intelligence, online research, and community management are invaluable for recruiters seeking to navigate the complexities of the digital age effectively. Stroud's comprehensive approach to talent acquisition, enriched by his significant consulting experience and creative content production, offers a wealth of practical tactics and forward-thinking ideas to improve recruitment outcomes and build a robust online presence in the HR sector.

14. Yasar Ahmad

Yasar Ahmad

Business website: HelloFresh

Social media profiles: LinkedIn, Twitter

Follow for: Insights into leveraging technology in talent acquisition, careers, and innovative HR practices, with a strong focus on inclusion and diversity.

Yasar Ahmad currently serves as the Global VP of People at HelloFresh, where he leads various critical HR functions, including Total Rewards, Global Mobility & Travel, Internal Communications, Global Talent Acquisition, and Employer Branding. Ahmad is a recognized figure in the tech and HR industries with a distinguished career that previously saw him at the helm of Global Talent at Zalando and in strategic roles at Wipro and Wipro Digital. His contributions have been acknowledged through numerous accolades, such as being named a Top 50 recruitment influencer by RecruitCRM in 2024, among other prestigious recognitions for his work in inclusion, diversity, and talent acquisition. Ahmad is also an active member of the RL100 and manages the TTC Community, showcasing his commitment to talent management and HR innovation.

What you can learn from Yasar Ahmad: 

Yasar Ahmad shares a wealth of knowledge on creating effective talent acquisition strategies and implementing innovative HR practices. His experience leading multinational change programs and his passion for digital innovation and automation provide valuable lessons on streamlining organizations' HR functions. Ahmad's insights into employer branding, global talent management, and technology integration in HR processes are particularly relevant for HR professionals.

15. Jeremy Roberts

Jeremy Roberts

Business website: JPMorgan Chase & Co

Social media profiles: LinkedIn

Follow for: Expertise in HR technology, sourcing strategies, and recruiting practices, especially in highly regulated environments.

Jeremy Roberts is the Executive Director and Head of Sourcing at JPMorgan Chase Global Technology, where he plays a pivotal role in shaping the talent acquisition landscape. With extensive experience in recruiting and scaling teams capable of identifying and engaging talent within regulated sectors, Roberts has demonstrated a keen ability to navigate complex hiring challenges. His career is marked by a continuous quest to find the ideal synergy between human intuition and machine efficiency in talent acquisition and HR processes. Roberts has been a significant figure in the talent acquisition community, serving as the SourceCon Editor from 2013 to 2016 and organizing the HIREconf events from 2016 to 2020, contributing to developing and sharing best practices in the field.

What you can learn from Jeremy Roberts:

By following Jeremy Roberts, you'll delve into advanced sourcing techniques and recruiting strategies that leverage the latest in HR technology. His insights provide a roadmap for integrating technological tools with human-centric approaches to enhance talent acquisition, particularly in environments where precision and compliance are paramount. Roberts' experience in community building and event organization also offers lessons on fostering professional networks and sharing knowledge within the HR and recruiting sectors. His perspective is invaluable for professionals seeking to optimize their recruiting processes and achieve a balanced, effective approach to talent acquisition. 

16. Matt Buckland

Matt Buckland

Business website: GHD

Social media profiles: LinkedIn

Follow for: Strategies in HR, fostering company culture, scaling talent acquisition processes, and effective recruitment methodologies.

Matt Buckland, the EMEA Talent Acquisition Lead at GHD, is renowned for his innovative recruitment and human resources strategies that bolster company growth and vision.  His passion lies in leading recruitment teams to enhance quality and efficiency in talent acquisition.At the helm of talent acquisition for GHD—a global professional services network specializing in digital, engineering, environmental, design, and construction solutions—Buckland brings over two decades of recruitment expertise. His proficiency spans a wide array of areas including candidate generation, social media utilization, diversity hiring, and stakeholder management. Buckland's global experience, having recruited in diverse markets such as Australia, India, China, the USA, and Canada, equips him with a unique perspective on adapting strategies to different cultures and industries.

What you can learn from Matt Buckland: 

Following Matt Buckland will give you insight into cutting-edge recruitment and HR strategies that can transform your talent acquisition efforts. His expertise spans scaling recruitment processes to support organizational growth, and he is renowned for his innovative approaches to candidate generation and diversity hiring. Buckland's experience in leveraging social media and other creative sourcing techniques to attract top talent, combined with his emphasis on metrics-led optimization, provides a comprehensive toolkit for enhancing recruitment outcomes. His leadership philosophy, focused on building high-performing recruitment teams, underscores the importance of teamwork and strategic planning in achieving recruitment excellence.

17. Manjuri Sinha

Manjuri Sinha

Business website: OLX

Social media profiles: LinkedIn

Follow for: Expertise in tech hiring, diversity and inclusion, leadership development, and strategic HR transformation, particularly in scaling up organizations.

Manjuri Sinha serves as the Global Director of Talent Success & DEI at OLX Group, part of Prosus, where she oversees everything related to talent, including employer branding, recruitment, onboarding, development, engagement, and DEI initiatives on a global scale. With over 20 years of international HR experience across various sectors like IT consulting, e-commerce, BPO, and manufacturing, Sinha has a proven track record in talent acquisition, talent management, and HR business partnering. Her leadership was instrumental in OLX's significant headcount growth and revenue increase, highlighting her capability to drive substantial organizational change. Before OLX, she held senior leadership roles in renowned companies such as Zalando GmbH, Accenture, and MphasiS, showcasing her ability to manage and scale tech teams effectively. Sinha is also a respected speaker and panelist, having contributed her insights at major industry conferences worldwide, and she offers talent architecture advisory within the Prosus group, further solidifying her role as a thought leader in the field.

What you can learn from Manjuri Sinha: 

Manjuri Sinha discusses effective strategies for tech recruitment, fostering diversity and inclusion, and developing leadership within tech-centric organizations. Her approach to HR transformation, particularly in scale-ups and global operations, provides a roadmap for creating high-performance teams and nurturing inclusive workplace cultures. Sinha's experiences in leading DEI initiatives and her success in scaling talent in hyper-growth environments are particularly beneficial for HR professionals and business leaders aiming to enhance their talent management practices.

18. Kris DunN

Kris Dunn

Business website: Marriott International

Social media profiles: LinkedIn

Follow for: Strategies in HR, fostering company culture, scaling talent acquisition processes, and effective recruitment methodologies.

Kris Dunn is a dynamic Talent Acquisition (TA) Leader with extensive experience leading talent practices in both Fortune 500 companies and venture capital-held startups. His philosophy centers around a straightforward concept: attract great people, then implement creative strategies to maximize their motivation, performance, and effectiveness. Dunn's approach to talent management is to minimize administrative tasks to allocate more time to impactful activities. Known for his transparency in the TA and HR fields, Dunn has contributed significantly to the community through his blogs, HR Capitalist and Fistful of Talent, for over 13 years, sharing valuable insights and building a learning network. His professional journey is marked by three degrees, a lasting marriage, an SPHR certification recertified twice, and thousands of successful hires, alongside a personal love for grunge music.

What you can learn from Kris Dunn: 

Kris Dunn invites you to explore the essence of effective talent acquisition and management through the lens of someone who passionately believes in the power of HR functions to transform businesses. Dunn's insights can guide you in developing strategies that attract and retain top talent by fostering an environment that encourages growth and high performance. His blogs are a rich resource for HR professionals seeking to stay updated on industry trends, improve their practices, and engage in meaningful discussions.

19. Adriaan Kolff

Adriaan Kolff

Business website: Matchr

Social media profiles: LinkedIn

Follow for: Motivational insights on entrepreneurship, productivity, and innovative recruitment strategies, focusing on environmental regeneration.

Adriaan Kolff, Co-Founder & CEO of Matchr and Founder of 24 The Planet, is on a personal mission to regreen over 1 million hectares of dry and degraded land to cool down the planet. With eight years in the entrepreneurship and recruitment sectors, Kolff's career is a testament to resilience, innovation, and environmental advocacy. Starting with no background in entrepreneurship or recruitment, his path was fraught with challenges, from the hardships of starting a business to the brink of bankruptcy. Yet, Kolff's persistence led to establishing four recruitment businesses, including a global company and a burgeoning startup with the potential to impact lives worldwide. His experiences have enriched him with a profound understanding of the entrepreneurial journey, from the pitfalls of planning without action to the triumphs of persistence and adaptability.

What you can learn from Adriaan Kolff: 

Adriaan Kolff inspires you with a narrative of growth, resilience, and the impact of stepping out of your comfort zone. Kolff's daily posts offer valuable lessons on navigating the entrepreneurial landscape, emphasizing the importance of making mistakes, problem-solving, and continuous learning. His unique blend of entrepreneurship and environmental sustainability commitment provides actionable insights for those looking to make a meaningful difference through their business ventures. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur, a recruitment professional, or passionate about environmental conservation, Kolff's journey underscores the power of innovative thinking and the courage to pursue transformative goals.

20. Matt Alder

Matt Alder

Business website: The Recruiting Future Podcast

Social media profiles: LinkedIn

Follow for: Forward-thinking insights on talent acquisition trends, technologies, and strategies to navigate the rapidly evolving recruitment landscape.

Matt Alder is a pivotal figure in talent acquisition, dedicated to guiding leaders through the complexities of emerging trends, technologies, and strategies in a rapidly changing environment. With two decades of research and expertise, Alder has carved out a niche as a writer, speaker, consultant, and podcaster, consistently offering thought-provoking insights that inspire action. As the producer and host of The Recruiting Future Podcast, Alder has reached over two million downloads, featuring interviews with practitioners and thought leaders shaping the industry's future. He is the co-author of "Exceptional Talent" and "Digital Talent," providing readers with invaluable resources for navigating the digital recruitment age. Alder's global speaking engagements and consultancy services focus on innovation in talent acquisition and smart technology procurement.

What you can learn from Matt Alder: 

Matt Alder equips you with the latest insights into how to adapt and thrive in the ever-evolving talent acquisition landscape. His work offers a deep dive into the disruptive technologies and methodologies transforming recruitment, empowering leaders and aspiring professionals with cutting-edge strategies for success. Through The Recruiting Future Podcast, Alder brings to light innovative ideas and practices from leading figures in the field, inspiring your recruitment strategies. 

21. Andres Traslavina

Andres Traslavina

Business website: Whole Foods Market

Social media profiles: LinkedIn

Follow for: Strategic insights and expertise in talent acquisition, HR strategy, and program management to drive organizational growth and excellence.

With over 15 years of progressive experience in talent acquisition, Andres Traslavina is deeply committed to advancing Whole Foods Market's mission of nourishing people and the planet. His strategic expertise encompasses various HR and talent management facets, including sourcing, recruiting, selection, hiring, program management, prompt engineering, and HR strategy. Traslavina supports hypergrowth teams and early-stage initiatives, leveraging his ability to architect and execute HR strategies that align with organizational objectives. His leadership style inspires cross-functional teams to achieve excellence while driving performance and growth through talent assessments and meaningful people KPIs.

What you can learn from Andres Traslavina: 

Andres Traslavina reveals strategic insights and best practices in talent acquisition and HR management. Traslavina's expertise in supporting hypergrowth teams and early-stage initiatives offers valuable lessons in architecting and executing HR strategies to drive organizational success. His emphasis on creating a positive and inclusive organizational culture underscores the importance of diversity, collaboration, and innovation in fostering excellence. Traslavina's multifaceted approach to talent acquisition and HR strategy helps you align your talent ecosystem with your mission-driven values. 

22. Anastasiia Holub

Anastasiia Holub

Business website: n/a

Social media profiles: LinkedIn

Follow for: Insights on talent acquisition, leadership, recruitment, and a sprinkle of foodie adventures.

Anastasiia Holub, a vibrant Talent Acquisition Lead based in Berlin, is on a mission to build tech teams and make companies a better place. With a zest for life and a passion for people, Holub exudes happiness in her personal and professional endeavors. She thrives on sharing her knowledge and expertise, whether it's speaking at conferences like SOSU, TechRec, and WeAreDevelopers or imparting wisdom to her colleagues. Holub embodies a culture of continuous learning, always eager to expand her horizons while enriching the lives of those around her.

What you can learn from Anastasiia Holub:

Anastasiia Holub explores talent acquisition, leadership, and recruitment strategies. Her experiences building tech teams and fostering positive company cultures offer valuable lessons for aspiring HR professionals and team leaders. Additionally, Holub's enthusiasm for sharing knowledge underscores the importance of continuous learning and collaboration in personal and professional growth. Whether you're interested in honing your hiring skills, developing leadership qualities, or simply exploring the vibrant world of food, Holub's journey serves as an inspiring guide to embracing life's adventures with joy and positivity. 

23. Naphtali Bryant

Naphtali Bryant

Business website: Lucas Museum of Narrative Art

Social media profiles: LinkedIn

Follow for: Insights on strategic HR, talent management, learning & development, and organizational development, along with speaking engagements and coaching tips.

Naphtali Bryant is a visionary HR and Talent Management executive renowned for driving organizational success through innovative learning solutions and a thriving company culture. With a strategic mindset and a passion for employee enablement, Bryant excels in identifying and bridging organizational effectiveness gaps to enhance performance and profitability. His expertise lies in crafting and implementing talent management strategies that foster high-performance cultures and accelerate talent development.

What you can learn from Naphtali Bryant: 

Naphtali Bryant is a treasure trove of valuable insights into strategic HR, talent management, and organizational development. His experiences creating innovative learning solutions, coaching employees, and developing leaders offer actionable strategies for business success. Bryant's speaking engagements at prestigious events like the Australia L&D Symposium and LinkedIn Talent Connect demonstrate his expertise and thought leadership. Additionally, his proficiency in employee engagement, performance management, and agile coaching provides a holistic view of modern HR practices.

24. Sharlyn Lauby

Sharlyn Lauby

Business website: ITM Group, Inc.

Social media profiles: LinkedIn

Follow for: Insights on human resources management, leadership, HR technology, talent management, and organizational development.

Sharlyn Lauby is a seasoned professional in human resources management, renowned for her expertise as a writer, author, speaker, and consultant. As the president of ITM Group Inc., a Florida-based firm specializing in training and HR consulting, Lauby is dedicated to helping organizations retain and engage talent. With over two decades of experience in the field, she has established herself as a trusted advisor known for translating HR strategies into actionable business solutions.

What you can learn from Sharlyn Lauby: 

Sharlyn Lauby analyzes human resources management and leadership. Her extensive experience in organizational development, training, employee relations, and job design offers practical guidance for HR professionals and business leaders alike. Lauby's expertise in workplace social media, strategic planning, recruitment, and HR compliance provides a comprehensive understanding of modern HR practices. Additionally, her proficiency in new program design, project management, and HR technology equips followers with the knowledge and tools to drive organizational success.

25. Liene Karaca

Liene Karaca

Business website: Smartist.One UG

Social media profiles: LinkedIn

Follow for: Insights on IT recruitment, job search strategies, and talent acquisition in the tech industry.

Liene Karaca is passionate about revolutionizing the IT job search process and transforming lives through recruitment. With over a decade of international recruitment experience, Karaca brings invaluable insights and expertise as a specialized IT Recruiter and Hiring Manager. Her mission is to address IT job seekers' challenges and empower them to navigate the competitive landscape confidently.

What you can learn from Liene Karaca: 

Liene Karaca offers expert advice and insider tips for succeeding in the IT job market. Karaca's deep understanding of successful IT interview processes and employee experiences provides valuable guidance for both candidates and global companies seeking top IT talent. Through her blog and resources, she equips IT professionals with knowledge and strategies to secure their dream positions and stand out in recruitment.

26. Nisha Raghavan

Nisha Raghavan

Business website: Teladoc Health

Social media profiles: LinkedIn

Follow for: Expert insights on innovative talent attraction, employer branding, and social media strategies tailored for mid-sized and Fortune 500 companies.

Nisha Raghavan is an Agile Talent Acquisition professional who transitioned into a highly accomplished Marketer. With over 12 years of experience, she specializes in crafting innovative, data-driven Global Employer Branding and Social Media strategies. Nisha has a proven track record of driving Talent Attraction and elevating brand awareness on a global scale. She excels in leading cross-functional teams and transforming business practices with a digital-first approach, focusing on spotlighting organizations’ distinctive cultures, values, and opportunities.

What you can learn from Nisha Raghavan: 

From Nisha Raghavan, you can learn cutting-edge techniques for talent attraction, employer branding, and social media engagement. Her expertise lies in crafting compelling content, implementing performance-focused talent attraction strategies, and leveraging data-driven insights to captivate diverse audiences. Whether you're a mid-sized company or a Fortune 500 enterprise, Nisha's insights can help you become a coveted employer and achieve your talent acquisition and branding goals.

27. Marcus Edwardes

Marcus Edwardes

Business website: Verticalmove, Inc

Social media profiles: LinkedIn

Follow for: Insights from a seasoned recruiter, podcaster, and coach on enhancing recruitment strategies, building relationships, and empowering teams.

Marcus Edwardes is a British podcaster, recruiter, and coach based in San Jose, California. As the host of the "Recruiting Trailblazers" podcast, he delves into top recruiters' mindsets, methods, and magic through conversations with leaders, pioneers, and individual contributors. Additionally, Marcus is the COO at Verticalmove, where he leverages his expertise to help staffing and search firms solve problems, drive desirable outcomes, and empower teams.

What you can learn from Marcus Edwardes: 

Marcus Edwardes offers valuable insights into recruitment strategies, relationship building, and team empowerment. His podcast provides a platform for industry leaders to share their expertise, offering actionable advice for recruiters at all levels. Through his consulting services, Marcus helps staffing and search firms enhance their operations, improve client relationships, and foster team growth, ultimately enabling them to achieve their goals and become industry trailblazers.

28. Bas Westland

Bas Westland

Business website: e-people

Social media profiles: LinkedIn

Follow for: Expert insights and training in recruitment, social media, and venturing, along with opportunities in IT and e-commerce.

Bas Westland is a trainer, speaker, and “stimulant” in recruitment, social media, and venturing, based in Amsterdam, Netherlands. With a focus on helping individuals and organizations excel in these areas, Bas offers services ranging from headhunting and executive search in ICT and e-business to LinkedIn training and workshops.

What you can learn from Bas Westland:

Following Bas Westland, you can access valuable insights and training sessions on recruitment strategies, social media engagement, and entrepreneurship. Additionally, he provides opportunities for job seekers and candidates in IT and e-commerce roles, along with tailored workshops for recruiters, freelancers, and sales professionals seeking to enhance their LinkedIn presence. 

29. Heidi Wassini

Heidi Wassini

Business website: Too Good To Go

Social media profiles: LinkedIn

Follow for: Expert guidance on creating DEI-focused talent acquisition strategies, authentic employer branding, and enhancing candidate experiences.

Heidi Wassini, based in Kokkedal, Denmark, is a seasoned talent attraction, acquisition, and employer branding evangelist. As an RL100 Member and advisory consultant, she empowers organizations to develop DEI-focused talent acquisition strategies and authentic employer branding initiatives that align with their business objectives.

What you can learn from Heidi Wassini: 

Heidi Wassini provides access to invaluable insights and expertise in unbiased recruitment, hypergrowth scaling, and candidate experience enhancement. Through her speaking engagements and training sessions, she offers actionable guidance on creating authentic employer branding by developing Candidate Value Propositions (CVP) and fostering inclusive recruitment practices.

30. Stevie Buckley

Stevie Buckley

Business website: Talent Stuff

Social media profiles: LinkedIn

Follow for: Expert insights on leadership hiring, scaling startups, and reducing hiring complexity and costs. 

Stevie Buckley, based in London, UK, is a seasoned People & Talent Leader with over a decade of experience working with tech startups in London and New York. As the Founder & Advisor at Talent Stuff, he specializes in leadership hiring and has contributed significantly to the growth of startups from Seed to Series D funding rounds.

What you can learn from Stevie Buckley: 

Stevie Buckley has invaluable expertise in scaling startups and streamlining the hiring process for impactful leaders. With a strong network in the European tech industry and a track record of success in leadership hiring, Stevie offers actionable insights and strategies to reduce hiring complexity, time, and costs for startups aiming to build high-performing teams.

Wrapping Up: How to Leverage These Expert Insights

In this article, we've looked at some smart people who know much about recruiting. Each of them has great ideas to share. For example, Nisha Raghavan knows how to make companies look good to potential employees on social media. Marcus Edwardes talks to top recruiters on his podcast, sharing their secrets. And Bas Westland helps companies find the right people using social media and other tricks. These experts have plenty of advice to offer for anyone working in hospitality.

If you're in executive search and recruiting, you can learn a lot from these experts. Try using Nisha Raghavan's social media tips or listening to Marcus Edwardes' podcast for inspiration. And if you need help finding the right people for your company, Bas Westland has some great strategies to share. By following their advice, you can improve your talent acquisition and retention efforts, making your company more attractive to job seekers.


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