What does it really take to put thousands of people in the right place, at the right time, to deliver some of the UK’s biggest events?

In this episode of Love What You Do, Ola sits down with Laura Rose, Head of People Deployment & Recruitment at Freeman’s Event Partners, to go behind the scenes of an industry where the pressure is high, the scale is huge and no two weeks look the same.

Laura shares how an unexpected move into recruitment at just 17 led to a career spanning more than 15 years and eventually into the fast-paced world of live events.

We talk about why recruitment is actually only a small part of her role, the extraordinary planning involved in deploying teams across hundreds of events each year, and why matching people to events they genuinely care about can completely change both the worker and guest experience.

From Silverstone and major sporting events to festivals and live music, Laura lifts the lid on what happens before the gates ever open, forecasting, transport, accommodation, scheduling, last-minute gaps and the constant juggling required to make everything come together.

We also explore what Laura looks for when hiring. Spoiler: it isn't necessarily the longest CV. Common sense, a can-do attitude, personality and a willingness to get stuck in can matter far more.

It’s a brilliant conversation about recruitment, operations, leadership and the thousands of people working behind the scenes to create the moments the rest of us remember.

If you've ever wondered who makes the magic happen before the crowds arrive, this episode is for you.

Loved this episode? Keep the good vibes going!
Follow us on TikTok, Instagram, and LinkedIn 👉 @Leisurejobsgb for behind-the-scenes, job inspo, and a few laughs along the way.

And when you’re ready to make your next move, head to leisurejobs.com, the home of great jobs, so you can Love What You Do

He started out collecting glasses in his auntie's pub. Now Thomas Breen leads people strategy for Lamington Group, and he's just overseen one of hospitality's boldest rebrands: Room 2 becoming Second Nature.

In this episode of Love What You Do, Thomas takes us behind the scenes of a transformation that started not with a logo, but with people. He explains why the rebrand began with listening sessions and roadshows, why the company chose to write its own failure points into its values, and what it really takes to attract, develop and keep good people in hospitality today.

Expect honest reflections on individuality, communication and judgement, and a clear belief that great hospitality starts with trust, clarity and care that shows up every single day.

Loved this episode? Keep the good vibes going!
Follow us on TikTok, Instagram, and LinkedIn 👉 @Leisurejobsgb for behind-the-scenes, job inspo, and a few laughs along the way.

And when you’re ready to make your next move, head to leisurejobs.com, the home of great jobs, so you can Love What You Do

Unlock the secrets to standing out in hospitality, retail, and leisure talent markets with insights from recruitment experts Daniel Brown and Dan Razavi.

This episode reveals the surprising reality shifts in candidate behavior, employer expectations, and what truly separates the top brands in attracting and retaining talent today.

You’ll discover why the traditional CV is nearing obsolescence and how AI, storytelling, and transparency are reshaping recruitment strategies. Daniel and Dan share straightforward tips on crafting tailored applications, why authenticity beats polish, and how to balance security with flexibility in a fast-changing industry.

If you’re a job seeker feeling overwhelmed or an employer struggling to find the right fit, this episode is your blueprint for success. Learn how to navigate competitive markets, make meaningful connections, and develop a compelling employer brand that attracts the best.

Don’t miss these game-changing insights, perfect for talent contenders and hiring managers alike, looking to adapt and thrive in the new era of hospitality and retail staffing.

Loved this episode? Keep the good vibes going!
Follow us on TikTok, Instagram, and LinkedIn 👉 @Leisurejobsgb for behind-the-scenes, job inspo, and a few laughs along the way.

And when you’re ready to make your next move, head to leisurejobs.com, the home of great jobs, so you can Love What You Do

Unlock the secrets to thriving in the high-energy world of late-night hospitality with Mike Phillips, Head of Talent at Nightcap. Discover why personality, resilience, and passion outweigh skills—and how Nightcap’s innovative approach redefines recruitment in a chaotic, fun, and fast-paced industry. If you’ve ever wondered what it really takes to attract top talent for vibrant venues or how to stand out in a crowded application process, this episode delivers proven strategies and insider insights.

Most hospitality companies rely on outdated CVs and generic interviews—Mike shows why focusing on personality first is the game-changer. He shares how Nightcap’s inclusive, creative recruitment methods—accepting poems, videos, and personality-driven applications—bring in the best talent, even when applications flood in. You’ll learn why a great bartender is someone who genuinely loves creating memorable moments and how resilience and energy make the difference between just surviving and thriving behind the bar, especially in late-night venues that deal with intoxicated guests and unpredictable situations.

We break down how Nightcap’s unique brand portfolio—from the energetic Cocktail Club to the refined Brighton i360—requires tailored hiring that captures each venue’s vibe while building a unified company story. Mike shares the importance of personality over experience, offering practical tips on how to showcase your authentic self and stand out, whether applying with a video, poem, or carefully crafted CV. Plus, find out why training, fun environments, and a focus on employee wellbeing—covering safety, mental health, and financial literacy—are vital to long-term retention in hospitality’s demanding world.

This episode is perfect for aspiring hospitality professionals, managers seeking better hires, and brands looking to disrupt traditional recruiting. Don’t miss Mike’s insights on how AI tools complement human judgment without replacing it—and why focusing on personality and authenticity is the future of hospitality hiring. Whether you're looking to join a brand that values fun and development or you’re an industry vet with experience, you’ll walk away with actionable strategies to revolutionize your recruitment game and create workplaces where both staff and guests thrive.

Loved this episode? Keep the good vibes going!
Follow us on TikTok, Instagram, and LinkedIn 👉 @Leisurejobsgb for behind-the-scenes, job inspo, and a few laughs along the way.

And when you’re ready to make your next move, head to leisurejobs.com, the home of great jobs, so you can Love What You Do

In this episode of "Love What You Do," host Olajide dives into the world of talent acquisition in the hospitality industry with guest Katie, Head of Talent Acquisition at DeVere Hotels. 

They explore the challenges and rewards of building brilliant teams in hotels, the importance of personality over skills, and the evolving landscape of recruitment. 

Katie shares insights on DeVere's emerging leader program, the role of AI in recruitment, and the significance of maintaining a human touch in hiring processes. Tune in to discover what makes DeVere Hotels a unique place to work and how they are shaping the future of hospitality careers.

Loved this episode? Keep the good vibes going!
Follow us on TikTok, Instagram, and LinkedIn 👉 @Leisurejobsgb for behind-the-scenes, job inspo, and a few laughs along the way.

And when you’re ready to make your next move, head to leisurejobs.com, the home of great jobs, so you can Love What You Do

In this episode, we explore the world of luxury hospitality with Nathan Craigie, Head of Talent and Development at Raffles London. Nathan shares his journey from a chef to a leader in recruitment, highlighting the values and culture that make Raffles a unique place to work. Discover how Raffles is not just a hotel for the ultra-wealthy but a welcoming space for everyone, and learn about the innovative ways they are using AI in recruitment. Whether you're interested in hospitality or career development, this episode offers valuable insights and inspiration.

Loved this episode? Keep the good vibes going!
Follow us on TikTok, Instagram, and LinkedIn 👉 @Leisurejobsgb for behind-the-scenes, job inspo, and a few laughs along the way.

And when you’re ready to make your next move, head to leisurejobs.com, the home of great jobs, so you can Love What You Do

 Gail’s Head of Talent Jordan joins Love What You Do to share the Hampstead “free bread” origin story, why the mission still anchors 180+ neighbourhood bakeries, and how small human moments (yes, a free cookie) build real community. 

We get into myth-busting “big chain = bad,” using AI to make hiring more human (including CV-free screening), and Jordan’s straight-talk advice for job-seekers. Plus: the ethos of a craft baker—and a daily plain croissant confession. 

Loved this episode? Keep the good vibes going!
Follow us on TikTok, Instagram, and LinkedIn 👉 @Leisurejobsgb for behind-the-scenes, job inspo, and a few laughs along the way.

And when you’re ready to make your next move, head to leisurejobs.com, the home of great jobs, so you can Love What You Do

In this episode of Love What You Do, Daniel Styles-Martin, the Head of People Experience at Five Guys, shares insights into the brand's journey, values, and customer experience. He discusses the importance of simplicity in the menu, the role of generosity in service, and the fresh ingredients that set Five Guys apart. Daniel also addresses common misconceptions about the brand and the hospitality industry, emphasising the potential for career growth within the sector. He shares his experiences in recruitment, the impact of AI, and offers advice for job applicants, all while highlighting the fun and rewarding nature of working in hospitality.

Loved this episode? Keep the good vibes going!
Follow us on TikTok, Instagram, and LinkedIn 👉 @Leisurejobsgb for behind-the-scenes, job inspo, and a few laughs along the way.

And when you’re ready to make your next move, head to leisurejobs.com, the home of great jobs, so you can Love What You Do

Tired of job descriptions that promise “fun teams” but deliver chaos and a box of Celebrations?

Love What You Do, the new podcast from Leisure Jobs, is here to reignite your spark at work. Each month we dive into real stories, hiring insights, and the future of hospitality, leisure, travel, and retail, helping you find joy in your career again.

 Expect bold conversations, honest laughs, and the inside scoop on what it really takes to build teams and thrive. 

Loved this episode? Keep the good vibes going!
Follow us on TikTok, Instagram, and LinkedIn 👉 @Leisurejobsgb for behind-the-scenes, job inspo, and a few laughs along the way.

And when you’re ready to make your next move, head to leisurejobs.com, the home of great jobs, so you can Love What You Do