EMEA Recruitment Podcast – Details, episodes & analysis

We were pleased to welcome Jakub Bejnarowicz, Regional Director, Europe at AICPA & CIMA, onto the EMEA Recruitment podcast. 

The conversation opens light-heartedly, with Jakub sharing a recent moment when his three-year-old son imitated him by putting papers into a folder and saying, "I am going to work," which made him smile. He reflects on how children observe and mimic behaviors, wondering if his son might one day follow in his professional footsteps.

The discussion then turns to our upcoming event, How to Manage with Impact: The Human Side of Leadership, taking place on Thursday 23rd October in Zurich, in partnership with the Chartered Institute of Management Accountants (CIMA). Jakub will be one of four senior panelists sharing their insights and experiences. He encourages Finance and business leaders, as well as CIMA members, to attend – register now.

When asked about his career journey, Jakub explains that he began by promoting higher education internationally, recruiting students and faculty, and fostering cross-border academic partnerships. A turning point came when a recruiter approached him to establish CIMA's operations in Central and Eastern Europe, starting in Poland. 

Jakub has now worked with the organization for almost 15 years. He finds it inspiring to collaborate with highly skilled Finance professionals and leaders to help them upskill. What excites him most is connecting people, building teams, and forming partnerships across Europe, including with local recruiters and educational institutions, to help individuals succeed in the profession. For Jakub, this work connects deeply with his heart, making his role especially meaningful.

Over time, he's learned that while Europe's diversity is its strength, it also requires understanding of each country's unique education systems and professional traditions. For CIMA, that means building bridges, creating partnerships with local institutions, and finding shared purpose.

He's particularly proud of initiatives like the recently launched CFO Program in Geneva. Above all, Jakub says that success always comes down to people: investing time to build genuine relationships, earning trust, and finding common goals. Relationships, he notes, take time to cultivate, especially in Finance, where credibility and trust develop gradually.

Asked about his passion for helping people, Jakub shares that he developed people skills over time. Attending boarding school helped him gain independence and confidence. He also credits his upbringing - his father was a mayor and his mother a general manager of a production facility - for exposing him to leadership and relationship-building from an early age.

Paul and Jakub discuss how Finance roles have evolved. CFO and Finance Director positions were once perceived as back-office and technical, but they have become much more about business partnering, influencing, and driving impact.

Touching on the future of Finance, Jakub explains that AICPA & CIMA provide valuable insights to its nearly 600,000 members, candidates, and registrants, as well as the wider Finance and business community, through surveys, research, and reports - such as Re-defining Finance for a Sustainable World. Finance, he says, is all about acquiring financial and relevant information, processing it, and turning it into actionable insights. While many Accounting operations are increasingly automated, accuracy and integration remain crucial.

Those entering or developing in the Finance profession now need a different skillset: the ability to embrace technology, communicate strategically, and tell a clear story through numbers. Jakub notes that the Finance structure has evolved from a triangle to a diamond shape, with fewer people at entry levels and greater emphasis on advanced skills and leadership potential.

He stresses the growing focus on stakeholders and long-term value creation, integrating financial, social, and natural capital, while understanding business models and co-creating value.

Jakub explains that today's Finance professionals must blend deep technical expertise with strong communication and people skills, becoming what he calls "T-shaped professionals." While technology and automation manage more routine work, the human side of Finance - storytelling, empathy, and authentic leadership - is what truly drives success. These qualities, he adds, develop through experience and a genuine desire to make an impact, helping professionals grow into trusted business partners and even future CEOs.

He also highlights the importance of inspiring the next generation, showing that Finance is no longer rigid or traditional, but a dynamic, tech-driven, and people-focused career path.

Use the timestamps below to find the part of the episode that interests you most: 

Timestamps

01:15: The last thing that made Jakub smile

02:55: What to expect at our upcoming event 

06:15: How Jakub joined CIMA and what keeps him inspired

11:15: Key lessons learned during Jakub's career 

14:15: Jakub's passion for helping people

18:55: How senior Finance roles have changed

20:45: Trends shaping the Finance function 

25:25: The importance of stakeholder relationships

30:17: How to manage impact and show empathy

37:00: Inspiring the next generation 

To connect with Jakub, you can find him on LinkedIn.

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The podcast is brought to you in partnership with Operation Smile, an international medical charity that provides life-changing surgery to children and adults with cleft lip and palate. Find out more about Operation Smile's work around the world: https://www.operationsmile.org.uk/partners/emea-recruitment/

If there are any topics you'd like us to cover in future episodes, please get in touch with marketing@emearecruitment.com 

#emearecruitment #emearecruitmentpodcast #jakubbejnarowicz #cfo  #cima  #paultoms #operationsmile  #operationsmileuk #recruitment

EMEA Recruitment is proud to present the second instalment of our limited series, Conversations with Finance Leaders, in collaboration with Geneva Business School. 

These episodes will bring you the tangible experiences of specialist professionals with the expertise of the Business School's leading academics.

In this episode, John Bower, Director, welcomes Nicolas Carrera, Group Treasurer at Metalor Technologies, and the Business School's Dr. Aleksandra Jancikova to explore the hidden dangers of ESG strategic ignorance and the fine line between selective oversight and corporate negligence. 

Please note: This conversation was recorded at the Geneva campus, which may cause some background noise and variations in sound quality.

Aleksandra introduces the conversation as a chance to explore unique perspectives drawn from over 20 years of combined professional experience. 

Nicolas introduces Metalor, a major player in the precious metals industry. He highlights its three business streams: refining precious metals (from mines and recycled sources); producing plating solutions; and manufacturing electrical switches (driven by the demand for data and AI centers). Founded in 1852, Metalor operates globally, and its ownership has evolved from private equity to a family-owned structure – which has influenced real change. 

Sustainability is still in the company's DNA, but the shift in ownership brought new transparency and stakeholder communication expectations. NGOs have scrutinized the sector, so improved media engagement and adopting best-in-class sourcing practices has become even more important. The board now plays an active role in ESG oversight, moving beyond financial risk to assess materiality from multiple perspectives. 

In the last couple of years, Metalor has also worked on the corporate sustainability reporting (CSRD) approach and has finalized its year of analysis. Stakeholder expectations from banks, NGOs, and customers have evolved, and Metalor aims to report on a wide spectrum of risks and prioritize them accordingly.

Aleksandra agrees that identifying material risks - financial, environmental, and social - is challenging, especially in sensitive sectors like Metalor's. 

At GBS, ESG is integrated across the management function. One-third of the academic curriculum touches on ESG-related topics, and there are specialized courses to build expertise among students. She contrasts GBS with large corporates like Metalor, noting having a dedicated ESG role is less practical for smaller institutions. Instead, integration across functions and KPIs is essential. For example, GBS invites board members to speak with staff and students, encouraging open conversations. Even when tough topics arise, the aim is constructive feedback and aligning decisions with strategic priorities. 

Nicolas explains how CSRD helped Metalor implement more structured practices, including board visits to plants and hands-on engagement. For example, human impact and risk profiles differ significantly between operations in Europe and Asia. Each plant now has designated staff responsible for ESG pillars, allowing clearer and localized reporting.

CSRD's structured methodology ensures consistent reporting across teams and geographies. Metalor now has systems in place so that the board has the data required for informed decision-making. With acquisitions and growth, it's been essential to bring everyone to the same level of understanding.

A single ESG representative at the group level wouldn't work for such a global operation. Instead, the business ensures that people on the front lines understand ESG expectations, particularly for sourcing and due diligence. Local teams must be equipped to make decisions that align with anti-money laundering (AML) and quality control standards. Nicolas notes that internal practices and information flows are critical - internal missteps can lead to public scandals. The goal is to ensure that relevant information reaches the board and informs timely decision-making.

A major focus for Metalor is the supply chain. Around 30% of its gold comes from mines, and some of those are artisanal, which carry higher risk. Through initiatives like Swiss Better Gold and support from SECO, Metalor engages directly in the field to ensure compliance. When geopolitical risks arise - such as sourcing gold from regions under sanctions – clear communication with the board is required to make fast decisions. 

Aleksandra raises a concern about how management presents data to the board; shiny numbers can mask deeper issues. She emphasizes the importance of understanding the line between compliance and ethics.

Nicolas agrees, pointing out that Metalor avoids sourcing 50% of the world's gold supply due to ethical or compliance concerns. By using geo-forensic tools, they can verify sources and make informed decisions, even if that means cutting off certain supply streams.

They address the danger of "plausible deniability" in ESG - when people avoid asking tough questions to preserve status or bonuses. Metalor prioritizes building trust with shareholders who understand industry realities, Nicolas explains. The organization commits to disclosing high-risk issues that could jeopardize that trust.

To close the discussion, Alexandra outlines key mechanisms that help organizations avoid ESG ignorance:

1. Culture of inquiry – encouraging open discussions without fear

2. Designated ESG committees – especially for large, complex organizations

3. Clear escalation channels – ensuring critical information reaches the board

4. Linking incentives to ESG KPIs – aligning goals and accountability

5. Acknowledging the journey – ESG is an evolving process, not a fixed target

Nicolas shares how Metalor is implementing several of these steps. 

On incentives, Nicolas admits Metalor is still on the journey to integrate ESG KPIs into executive performance frameworks, but has the board's full support. The CSRD process has helped raise awareness and set clearer priorities across the organization.

Aleksandra concludes that ESG is indeed a journey; it's not just about checking compliance boxes or reaching fixed goals - it's about continuously improving and shaping a better future.

Audience Q&A

The episode then enters a live Q&A session with the audience. 

The first question is directed at Nicolas and asks whether there are any opportunities in pursuing a cynical ESG approach. Metalor began its transparency journey ten years ago, noting that initial efforts in traceability using blockchain and geo-forensic passports didn't bring immediate returns. However, these efforts have now become essential, especially in the watch and jewelry industry, and help differentiate the company. He discusses how urban mining and recycling are becoming more prevalent and how traceability throughout the supply chain is improving with systems like SAP.

He believes there will be a competitive advantage to these approaches in the future. Aleksandra adds that a strategic ESG perspective can offer real opportunities, citing an example of an oil and gas company that shifted to renewable energy and now generates most of its profits from that area.

On ESG KPIs, Nicolas explains that most of Metalor's ESG metrics are reported in their CSRD disclosures and shared with banks and stakeholders. Clients like ABB, Siemens, and Schneider are increasingly demanding ESG reporting, which drives internal improvements.

Nicolas shares that, during COVID-19, Metalor kept all its refineries open by applying early safety practices seen in China. This gave them an advantage, especially when other refineries closed. They adapted quickly, including renting planes to meet demand when transport was disrupted.

Despite rising costs in precious metal financing, particularly between December and March, ESG initiatives have not been paused. The company remains in a strong position and can pass on some of the increased costs to clients.

Please use the timestamps below to find the most interesting part of the episode for you:

01:15: Introducing the conversation and main aims
04:30: An introduction to Metalor
07:10: GBS's ESG curriculum
07:45: Integrating ESG roles into the business
10:10: Beyond the financial pillar
12:25: GBS's approach to integrating ESG metrics
18:55: Avoiding scandals
21:50: The fine line between compliance and ethics
25:20: Plausible deniability
28:50: Building a culture of inquiry
31:30: Designated ESG committees in complex environments
33:15: Escalating matters to the board
34:55: Linking incentives to ESG KPIs
36:50: Pursuing a cynical ESG approach
38:45: Competitive advantages
41:20: Metalor's ESG KPIs
43:05: Why leverage is difficult in the commodities industry
46:05: Metalor's methods in the pandemic
49:50: Rising cost pressure in the macroeconomic environment

The EMEA Recruitment podcast is brought to you in partnership with international medical charity Operation Smile. Learn more about their work in supporting children and adults with cleft lip and palate: www.operationsmile.org.uk/partners/emea-recruitment/

To share any ideas you have for future episodes, please get in touch: marketing@emearecruitment.com 

#emearecruitment #emearecruitmentpodcast #nicolascarrera #aleksandrajancikova #genevabusinessschool #gbs #metalor #paultoms #operationsmile  #operationsmileuk #recruitment

We were proud to welcome Hugh Tamlyn, Director – Treasury & Prudential Risk at Beacon Search, onto the EMEA Recruitment podcast. 

This episode focuses on our partnership with Operation Smile, the international medical charity delivering free surgery to children with cleft lip and palate.

Hugh and Beacon Search are on a mission to fund 100 surgeries by raising £15,000 during 2023. To donate, please visit https://www.justgiving.com/campaign/beaconsearch100smiles2023. You can also follow Hugh on TikTok or Instagram to follow his journey - @hughtamlyn

To start the episode, Paul Toms asks Hugh about the last thing that made him smile. Hugh smiles daily, but most recently visited India where he went on a safari and managed to see some tigers in the wild. He adds that his dog, Cooper, also makes him smile and reveals the humorous reason behind Cooper's name. 

Uncovering the reasons why Hugh began a partnership with Operation Smile, he shares that he was born with a cleft lip and palate and, as he aged, he felt like he should contribute to the community and help others. 

He began fundraising via a charity bike ride, which has adapted in length over the years and eventually cultivated in a corporate partnership. 

Delving deeper, Hugh reveals that he didn't talk about his condition for several years up until his late 20s. Speaking about his differences more regularly helped him become confident in himself. He now provides a pathway for children and is happy to have conversations with parents, answer questions, and provide a level of support.

Fundraising efforts ramped up after Hugh started his own company, allowing him to dedicate more time to training for events. For Hugh, partnering with Operation Smile made sense for several reasons – taking ownership of his condition, social responsibility, and a passion to give back.

Both Paul and Hugh open up further about their experiences, the benefits of being open to people, touching on a more accepting world, and the importance of helping others, especially in the developing world. 

Next, we find out Hugh's impressive agenda for future fundraising efforts: 

• Ford Ride London

• An indoor 100-mile challenge on a static bike in London

• Everesting Challenge - 8,849 meters of uphill cycling in South Wales

• Irish Ride Challenge - 100 miles a day for 15 days ending on 6th October (World Smile Day) at the Operation Smile office in Dublin

• London to Brighton - 60-mile bike ride 

Hugh began cycling and racing between the age of 12-16 and later swapped cycling for rugby. It was only when he moved to Amsterdam four to five years ago that he integrated himself into the Dutch culture and took up cycling again. 

The next bucket list challenge for Hugh may involve mountaineering - although he doesn't want to complete all seven summits and refuses to do Everest. Kilimanjaro has been on his list for a while. 

Paul later shares EMEA Recruitment's fundraising activities and mentions our London Marathon fundraiser, which was completed by Associate Director, Neil Cope. Paul also gives a synopsis of the children's picture book he is creating and writing for Operation Smile. 

Moving away from his charity efforts, Hugh discusses his career journey. He has always enjoyed working and helping people. Originally, he planned to do a football-related career in Wales, but he ultimately took a risk and moved to London, eventually joining a recruitment company. As the business grew, he helped set up an office in New York and, later, Amsterdam. 

During COVID, Hugh felt confident in setting up on his own and has always been competitive, self-motivated and willing to take risks. So far, it has been a rollercoaster experience, but he is enjoying the process with a new challenge every day. 

Paul shares EMEA Recruitment's backstory, which involved building the business alongside his wife using their personal networks and reputation, without having a business plan in place. Ultimately, EMEA grew, built on trust and an aligned mindset.

Towards the end of the episode, Hugh shares his greatest achievements. He emphasises that there have been many small wins throughout his life. The opportunity to live and work in different places with different cultures was one of his greatest achievements, and completing the Irish Ride Challenge and raising funds for Operation Smile will be another. 

You can follow Hugh's journey on social media @hughtamlyn 

The episode ends with Hugh attempting to persuade Paul to get involved in the London to Brighton 60-mile cycle! 

To find a particular part of the episode, please use the timestamps:

00:40 - Last thing that made Hugh smile
01:30 - The reason Hugh's dog is named Cooper
02:10 – Partnership with Operation Smile
04:20 - The turning point: Hugh accepting himself
07:25 - Confidence and bringing change
10:25 - The benefits of talking about experiences
13:05 - Hugh's fundraising activities
16:25 - When Hugh began cycling
19:20 - The next activity on Hugh's bucket list
20:40 - EMEA Recruitment's partnership with Operation Smile
23:20 - Becoming the owner of an international recruitment company
28:20 - Taking risks and Hugh's approach to opportunities
32:50 - EMEA Recruitment's backstory
35:15 - Hugh's greatest achievement
36:55 - Following Hugh's fundraising journey

We're proud to work with Operation Smile in bringing you the EMEA Recruitment podcast. If you'd like to find out more about the work they do around the world, please visit: https://www.operationsmile.org.uk/donate-to-operation-smile/donate-to-operation-smile-emea-recruitment/

This episode is hosted by Paul Toms, our Founder, and Rose Jinks, our Marketing Manager.

To share your feedback on this episode, please reach out to Rose: rose.jinks@emearecruitment.com 

#emearecruitment #emearecruitmentpodcast #hughtmalyn #paultoms #operationsmile  #operationsmileuk #recruitment 

EMEA Recruitment is proud to welcome not one, but two Indirect Tax leaders to the podcast – eBay's Anitha Chakravarthi and Bart Caluwé, of Expedia.

"Own who you are and bring that to the table."

Anitha is the Global Head of Indirect Tax at eBay, while Bart is Expedia's Indirect Tax Director. 

They spoke to our Founder, Paul Toms, at an incredibly anxious time; the USA was in the midst of the 2020 election and COVID-19 continued to take its toll on people's lives. It's been such a turbulent time that Anitha hopes 2021 is a little less exciting! Bart, too, joked that he'll hide under a rock and keep working until this is all over.

We kicked off the podcast by asking both Anitha and Bart about their experiences with Digital Services Tax – the new kid on the block in their industry. It's something that both eBay and Expedia, as online marketplaces, must deal with. However, they both explain how their departments deal with the legislation differently.

Anitha is positive about changes in the Tax sector, as it keeps her role interesting. Bart agrees that professionals must remain savvy to the new platforms in the Tax ecosystem.

Due to the changing demands of the function, Bart discusses why Tax newbies should go down that route in the first place and the roles available. Anitha runs through the characteristics that she believes good Tax professionals need, especially those interested in Indirect Tax.

We also found out Bart's golden nugget of recruitment – it's a top tip that any professional in any discipline can apply to the interview process!

Although we tried not to focus too much on COVID-19 during the podcast, it's difficult to have a conversation with anyone today without the coronavirus coming up. Paul asked both Anitha and Bart to explain how they've kept their teams motivated during the pandemic. As managers, they both have very human approaches, with positive outlooks for the future.

Inevitably, the conversation also turned to women in Finance, which has become an increasing focus of companies' Diversity & Inclusion agendas. Anitha has some inspiring words for all Finance professionals, but also offers advice for women in the industry.

Bart echoes Anitha's points, having worked with lots of women during his career in Tax.  

We ended by asking Anitha and Bart for their dream podcast guests – while Bart sticks with Finance, Anitha's are at the opposite end of the spectrum… Listen to the full episode below to find out who they'd most like to interview.

We hope that you enjoy this special Indirect Tax episode of the EMEA Recruitment podcast – please share it with anyone in your network that you think would benefit from Anitha and Bart's advice.

Use these helpful timestamps to find the section you're most interested in:

02:20 – The new Digital Services Tax
06:32 – New taxes and technology
11:52 – Why to choose Tax
15:31 – The characteristics that Anitha looks for in Tax professionals
19:40 – Bart's key piece of recruitment advice
21:23 – Routes into the Tax industry
28:50 – Keeping teams motivated during COVID-19
33:03 – Moving forward in your career
35:56 – Advice for women (and men) in Finance
40:02 – Women at Expedia
44:24 – Anitha's dream podcast guests
45:27 – Bart's dream podcast guests
46:55 – How to reach out to Anitha and Bart

You can listen to the full episode here:

Or at:

If you're prefer to watch the episode, you can view it below:

This Indirect Tax special of the EMEA Recruitment podcast is brought to you in partnership with Operation Smile. Our international charity partner provides life-changing surgery to children and adults with cleft lip and palate. We're hoping to raise vital funds and awareness for this cause, which is very close to Paul Toms' heart. If you would like to find out more or donate, click here: https://www.emearecruitment.eu/operation-smile

The EMEA Recruitment podcast is hosted by Paul Toms, our Founder, and Jenny Callum, our Associate Director. 

If you'd like to find out more about our services, visit our website: https://www.emearecruitment.eu/

You can also follow us on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/emea-recruitment-limited/

To connect with Paul, visit: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paultoms/ 

Or Jenny, at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennycallumemea/

If there are any topics you'd like to hear more about on the EMEA Recruitment podcast, please let us know through LinkedIn.

#emearecruitment #emearecruitmentpodcast #anitachakravarthi #bartcaluwé #paultoms #ebay #expedia #finance #operationsmile 

We were honoured to welcome Shari Levitin to the EMEA Recruitment podcast. Shari is a passionate global sales leader and CEO of Levitin Group, which she founded in 1997. 

"We want to do good at work, but there's not a human being out there that doesn't also want to have a fulfilled, happy life."

Shari spoke to Paul Toms, our Founder, as the cold season sets in at her home in Park City, Utah. 

She explained the core skills needed to be a successful salesperson. Shari also described to Paul the turning point in her career, when she realised she needed to reprioritise her life.

Although many of us hopefully won't go through the tragic situation that transformed Shari's life, she has some key advice for re-examining your priorities. It's especially relevant considering the global pandemic that has shifted many people's lives this year.

Shari herself talks about how she has managed to help her customers and, at the same time, grow her business during this turbulent time.

But Shari's priorities stretch much further than business, and she details this to Paul with a fantastic system, which she calls the triangle of fulfilment. For anyone struggling with work-life balance, Shari recommends instead looking for work-life integration, and shares her tools for managing this.

As Paul was keen to invite Shari onto the EMEA Recruitment podcast after reading her book, Heart and Sell, we also discussed how such a busy person got a book written and published to a tight deadline, all with four broken ribs!

In fact, traditional skills of reading and writing are the key to empathy, which Shari believes is the very skill needed to sell. She has some interesting thoughts on social media and how to use it effectively, as well as the ways we can still share love virtually.

Shari also shared with Paul some of her favourite inspirational quotes, and a heart-warming answer to the question of who she'd invite to her last supper. 

We hope you enjoy this episode of the EMEA Recruitment podcast, and find Shari's words inspiring, whether you're in the sales sector or not.

The timestamps below can help you find the most relevant section of the episode:

01:12 – Living in Park City, Utah
02:47 – The core of what is sales
04:54 – The moment that transformed Shari's life
07:45 – How to re-examine your priorities
11:54 – The key to being a successful salesperson
13:53 – Achieving work-life integration
20:03 – How to manage your energy
24:32 – Self-regulating your use of social media
30:50 – Shari's favourite quotes
32:40 – Who Shari would invite to her last supper
34:19 – Putting the love into what you do, virtually
38:12 – How to connect with Shari

If you would like to reach out to Shari, email her at shari@sharilevitin.com or visit her website: https://www.sharilevitin.com/

We are proud to be a partner of Operation Smile, which delivers life-changing surgery to children and adults with cleft lip and palate. Operation Smile supports the EMEA Recruitment podcast, to raise awareness of the fantastic work they do. If you'd like to find out more or donate to this wonderful cause, click here: https://www.emearecruitment.eu/operation-smile

The EMEA Recruitment podcast is hosted by Paul Toms, our Founder, and Jenny Callum, Associate Director. 

To read more about us, visit our website here: https://www.emearecruitment.eu/

You can also follow us on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/emea-recruitment-limited/

If you'd like to connect with Paul, visit: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paultoms/

Or Jenny: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennycallumemea/

If there are any topics you'd like to hear covered in the EMEA Recruitment podcast, please let us know via LinkedIn. 

#emearecruitment #emearecruitmentpodcast #sharilevitin #paultoms #operationsmile 

In this episode of the EMEA Recruitment podcast, we were pleased to be joined by Rajiv Ramani, the Group Chief Financial Officer (CFO) at Luxasia in Singapore.

"It takes ten years to build your own personal integrity, but it just takes ten seconds for all that to go away."

Rajiv spoke to Paul Toms, our Founder, in what has been an unusual year. He starts by sharing some advice on coping with the COVID-19 pandemic, both personally and professionally. In fact, Rajiv's calm and results-focussed approach forms the foundations of this podcast episode.

He explains the way he achieves a sense of buy-in from his team - with some strong sporting analogies – as well as the method he's used for managing employees over the COVID-19 period. 

Rajiv shares his core set of values and principles, which he applies to life both in the office and at home. But what do you do when you don't meet eye-to-eye with certain people? Rajiv has some top advice for dealing with everyone from the CEO to frontline staff.

We were inspired by Rajiv's investment of time and effort into mentoring graduates, so asked him about why he took this step. Being so supportive of his team members and upcoming professionals is obviously time-consuming, but Rajiv explains how he manages to fit so much into his diary – and how he switches off at the end of the day.

Rajiv also discussed the impact of Business Intelligence (BI) and Data on the Finance function of the future, insisting that it's happening already.  

He has a clear idea of how Finance will change in the next couple of years, but offers a word of caution on the information that we all share on the internet. 

One thing that stands out speaking to Rajiv is his very calm and considered attitude. It's something that he says he's honed along the way, and would be earning mega-bucks if it was something he'd been born with! 

We also found out what Rajiv has planned for the next few years and the way he begins each day – remember to share this episode with anyone that you think would benefit from Rajiv's advice.

You can use the timestamps below to find the part you're looking for:

01:04 – How to move on from the COVID-19 pandemic
03:05 – Rajiv's key actions for a successful team
06:46 – How Rajiv has managed his team during COVID-19
08:48 – Being authentic in business
11:07 – Rajiv's set of values and principles
14:58 – Why Rajiv mentors graduates
20:18 – How Rajiv manages his diary
23:02 – The impact of BI & Data on Finance
27:52 – Dealing with the concerns of data
31:30 – What Rajiv looks for in a business partner
33:55 – How Rajiv stays calm and considered
35:59 – Rajiv's plans for the next few years
38:10 – Climbing southeast Asia's highest mountain
41:08 – How Rajiv's day begins
44:22 – How to connect with Rajiv

If you'd like to connect with Rajiv on LinkedIn, click here.

We're proud to have partnered with international medical charity Operation Smile on the EMEA Recruitment podcast. We're hoping to raise vital funds and awareness of the work they do in changing people's lives. To find out more, or to donate, visit our website: https://www.emearecruitment.eu/operation-smile 

The EMEA Recruitment podcast is hosted by Paul Toms, our Founder, and Jenny Callum, Associate Director. 

You can find out more about us on our website: https://www.emearecruitment.eu/

Alternatively, follow us on LinkedIn here: https://www.linkedin.com/company/emea-recruitment-limited/

If you'd like to connect with Paul, click here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paultoms/

Or Jenny at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennycallumemea/

We'd love your feedback on the EMEA Recruitment podcast – please let us know of any topics you'd like us to cover in future episodes through LinkedIn. 

#emearecruitment #emearecruitmentpodcast #rajivramani #singapore #luxasia #finance #operationsmile 

We were proud to welcome Roberto Bollinetti, the Group CFO at AMC International, to the EMEA Recruitment podcast.

"To learn from mistakes, we have to be so brave to make mistakes."

From his home in Switzerland, Roberto discussed the challenges he currently faces as a Group Chief Financial Officer (CFO) with our Founder, Paul Toms. He explains that, although cash is king more than ever now, his challenges are not only financial; coronavirus is changing our way of working, making communication and motivation even more important.

The COVID-19 pandemic has had a huge impact on his organisation, but it has proven how quickly the company can adapt. Roberto explains how AMC International had planned a digital transformation in two to three years' time, but was forced to complete it in just three months. To Roberto, it proves how well human beings can get things done.

He has some interesting advice on how to create strong teams, which can be applied to all functions of a business. Although he claims to have no recipe for staying focussed, Roberto explains to Paul how he keeps projects moving in the right direction.

We also asked Roberto some slightly obscure questions, such as whether he could cut down to a four-hour work day and what he hopes is written on his epitaph!

Regarding the Finance function specifically, Roberto explains how quickly Business Intelligence (BI) and Data is changing the role, and which direction he believes analysis is going in. 

We also found out why Roberto thinks sports stars make such good mentors – listen to the episode to find out who he's most inspired by.

If you think that anyone in your network would benefit from this Finance podcast episode, please share it below.

These timestamps will help you find the section you're looking for:

01:40 – Current challenges for a Group CFO
06:29 – Roberto's key to success
09:34 – How to get everyone on board
12:26 – How Roberto stays focussed
16:21 – How Roberto would prioritise a 4-hour work day
22:50 – The impact of BI & Data on Finance
27:00 – Finding an inspirational person
31:34 – What Roberto wants written on his epitaph 

This episode of the EMEA Recruitment podcast is brought to you in partnership with Operation Smile, an international medical charity. We hope to raise vital funds and awareness of the work Operation Smile does to deliver life-changing surgery to children and adults with cleft lip and palate. To find out more, or to donate, click here: https://www.emearecruitment.eu/operation-smile

The EMEA Recruitment podcast is hosted by Paul Toms, our Founder, and Jenny Callum, Associate Director.  

To find out more about us, visit our website at: https://www.emearecruitment.eu/

You can also follow us on LinkedIn here: https://www.linkedin.com/company/emea-recruitment-limited/

If you'd like to connect with Paul, click here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paultoms/

Or Jenny: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennycallumemea/

If you would like to suggest questions or topics for the EMEA Recruitment podcast, please let us know via LinkedIn. 

#emearecruitment #emearecruitmentpodcast #robertobollinetti #switzerland #operationsmile 

The EMEA Recruitment podcast was pleased to welcome Jean-Michel Deckers, who serves on the board of various entities, and advises them on governance processes and growth strategies. 

"I've grown the most when I was confronted with my own limitations by management."

As a previous CFO, CEO and M&A professional, Jean-Michel also supports a portfolio of clients in the technology, life science, medical and cosmetic industries in their strategies, development and corporate Finance projects.

Jean-Michel spoke to our Founder, Paul Toms, from his home office in Switzerland. He discussed the challenges and opportunities that he's seen in different roles at various companies, and the biggest obstacle that he currently faces as a non-executive director. 

Jean-Michel combines his various interests, particularly in technology and life sciences, in his current work and is committed to using technology to have a positive impact on people's lives. It's this passion that helps him bring different perspectives to business. 

In fact, Jean-Michel explains the importance of using data correctly within the Finance function, as more and more data is available to companies. 

His focus on providing meaningful results is something that he also applies to management, as he describes himself as "more a mentor than a manager". Building for the long-term is also essential for retaining the best people, Jean-Michel believes. 

During these current strange and sometimes difficult times, Jean-Michel offers his best advice for prioritising, working from home and preparation. 

We also discussed who Jean-Michel has been mentored by in his own career and why he probably got more support than he deserved!

We hope that you're inspired by Jean-Michel's commitment to enriching the use of data and guarding of the Finance function – please share this episode of the EMEA Recruitment podcast with anyone that you think would enjoy it.

The timestamps below will help you find the section you're looking for:

01:20 – Challenges and opportunities
03:56 – How to draw the line as a non-executive director
05:01 – Using tech to have a positive impact
08:16 – Data as a key responsibility of the Finance function
13:38 – Using data in a meaningful way
19:20  – Jean-Michel's projects for the next 12 months
22:47 – Balancing people's strengths and weaknesses
26:35 – Retaining the best people
27:40 – How to prioritise
30:38 – The importance of exercise
32:50 – Creating a culture of feedback
40:13 – Jean-Michel's mentors
44:18 – How to reach out to Jean-Michel

If you'd like to connect with Jean-Michel, visit his LinkedIn profile here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jean-michel-deckers/

We'd like to thank our charity partner, Operation Smile, for supporting the EMEA Recruitment podcast. We hope to raise valuable funds and awareness for the work this amazing charity does through our partnership. To find out more and to support this cause, visit: https://www.emearecruitment.eu/operation-smile

This Finance episode of the EMEA Recruitment podcast was hosted by Paul Toms and Jenny Callum.

If you'd like to find out more about EMEA Recruitment, please visit our website: https://www.emearecruitment.eu/

You can also follow us on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/emea-recruitment-limited/

To connect with Paul, click here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paultoms/

Or Jenny, at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennycallumemea/

If you have any topics that you'd like covered in the EMEA Recruitment podcast, please let us know via LinkedIn. 

#emearecruitment #emearecruitmentpodcast #jeanmicheldeckers #switzerland #finance #techology #data #operationsmile 

For this episode of the EMEA Recruitment podcast, we were joined by Karin Aalbertsen, the Head of Finance Benelux/Group Manufacturing Controller at CPG in the Netherlands.

"Focus on the future and what you can do and what decisions you can take to change direction."

Karin discusses the lessons she's learned as a woman in Finance with our Founder, Paul Toms. She believes that it's okay that women and men think differently sometimes, but offers advice to other female professionals on understanding the industry.

We also found out her top tip for all Finance professionals that Karin feels will boost your career. 

Having progressed to the role of Finance Director, Karin has faced a wide range of challenges, which she discusses with Paul and explains how she manages them. 

Working with her team is something incredibly important to Karin, who finds it more important to hire people with complementary personalities than focusing purely on skills. 

We also found out how she almost didn't make it to her job interview at Philips, the type of books she can't get enough of and her two dream podcast guests. 

For anyone currently entering or moving through the Finance industry, listen out for Karin's advice on feeling happy with your career choices. 

The timestamps below will help you find the section you're looking for:

01:13 – Being a woman in a male-dominated environment
03:52 – Karin's personal strengths
07:11 – Why Karin went into Finance
08:56 – The challenges of being a Finance Director
12:53 – Recruitment and retention in Finance
17:11 – Why Karin almost missed her interview at Philips
20:51 – The books Karin reads
26:13 – Would Karin go down the same career path again?
27:45 – Karin's dream podcast guests
30:50 – How to connect with Karin

To connect with Karin via LinkedIn, click here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karin-aalbertsen-0b0885/

We are proud to bring you the EMEA Recruitment podcast in partnership with Operation Smile. Operation Smile is an international medical charity that provides life-changing surgery to children and adults with cleft lip and palate conditions. To find out more or to support this cause, visit: https://www.emearecruitment.eu/operation-smile

The EMEA Recruitment podcast is hosted by our Founder, Paul Toms, and Associate Director, Jenny Callum. 

You can find out more about EMEA Recruitment at: https://www.emearecruitment.eu/

Or through our LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/emea-recruitment-limited/

To connect with Paul, click here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paultoms/ 

Or Jenny: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennycallumemea/

If there are any topics you'd like covered in future episodes of the podcast, please let us know through LinkedIn. 

#emearecruitment #emearecruitmentpodcast #karinaalbertsen #thenetherlands #finance #operationsmile 

In this episode of the EMEA Recruitment podcast, we were proud to be joined by a "living legend of recruitment", Greg Savage. Greg is an advisor, consultant, investor, speaker and author in the recruitment industry. 

"We have no control over coronavirus, but we do have control over our response."

Inevitably, the topic of conversation between Greg and our Founder, Paul Toms, turned to the COVID-19 pandemic. Greg has been advising his clients about taking advantage of the recovery period as it comes. Keeping a positive mental attitude is something that he believes leads to resilience. 

In fact, since his career in recruitment started back in 1980, Greg hasn't had a single conversation about a job in any other industry. But he does have a warning for recruiters of the future, as he believes some roles are under threat of automation. Greg reveals to Paul the skills that he thinks recruiters need to survive the future of Artificial Intelligence (AI). 

He also explains why the recruitment sector is a fantastic career choice for women and other minority groups – it's an empowering discussion!

However, returning to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, Greg feels that a lot of leaders were exposed in the first month or two. He runs through the six things that all great leaders, either in recruitment or not, need in the current situation.

Of course, all leaders also need to switch off. Paul and Greg discuss the best practices for looking after yourself and being more productive. 

Whether you're an established recruiter, are new to the industry or are in another field entirely, Greg has some fantastic pieces of wisdom from his career in staffing and professional services.

We hope that you enjoy this episode – if you think your network would benefit from Greg's advice, please feel free to share it with them.

These helpful timestamps will direct you to the section you're looking for:

01:01 – What's on Greg's mind today
02:49 – Being resilient during the COVID-19 pandemic
09:15 – Why Greg has never considered leaving recruitment
12:25 – The impact of automation on recruiters
19:50 – The most important book for influencing people
25:40 – Why recruitment is a win-win-win
30:34 – Best practices for leaders
40:08 – How Greg switches off
46:17 – How to reach out to Greg

To check out Greg's website, click here: https://gregsavage.com.au/

EMEA Recruitment is proud to bring you our podcast in partnership with Operation Smile, an international medical charity. We're hoping to raise vital funds and awareness of the work that they do in providing life-changing surgery to children and adults with cleft lip and palate. To find out more, visit: https://www.emearecruitment.eu/operation-smile

This episode was hosted by Paul Toms, the Founder of EMEA Recruitment, and Jenny Callum, our Senior Consultant. 

If you'd like to find out more about us, visit our website: https://www.emearecruitment.eu/

To follow us on LinkedIn, click here: https://www.linkedin.com/company/emea-recruitment-limited/

You can also connect with Paul at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paultoms/

And Jenny: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennycallumemea/

If there are any topics you'd like covered on the EMEA Recruitment podcast, please let us know via LinkedIn. 

#emearecruitment #emearecruitmentpodcast #gregsavage #australia #recruitment #operationsmile