Interview with Sophie Goymer, Senior Finance Consultant, BMC Recruitment Group
Find out why Sophie Goymer, Senior Finance Consultant, BMC Recruitment Group, loves her job and is determined to give recruitment consultants a better name.
What’s your career background?
I graduated from Northumbria University with a degree in fashion, I wasn’t really sure what I actually wanted to do, but I loved learning about businesses- and what it takes to make them work. I thrive in a competitive environment, and I love seeing businesses succeed.
My first job was working in sales, in the banking sector. I was quickly promoted in my role at a young age- managing a team of five when I was 17 was a massive learning curve for me, I then moved into insurance sales.
My career in recruitment started when I was 23 at a large national agency, I specialised in technology recruitment and then moved on to senior finance. I found my niche here – and really enjoyed meeting candidates and client within the finance market across the North East.
I joined BMC in 2017, and can honestly say it is the best career decision I have made.
What’s your USP?
Communication skills, and building relationships. I am always open and honest with my clients and candidates. I have learned over the years clients really appreciate honesty.
Recruitment consultants can have a bad reputation, and I am very much of the mindset that you are always learning. I am not afraid to admit to any mistakes and move forward. I also think a sense of humour goes a long way.
Who’s your target audience?
Qualified finance professionals, at all levels, and any hiring managers who are looking to add to their team. Anyone looking to discuss their career options!
How do you spread the word about what you do?
We’re lucky enough to have an in-house marketing manager here at BMC – she’s fantastic! Marketing strategy aligned to our business strategic has really helped to shape and communicate the BMC brand.
Marketing is key to recruitment, and to BMC. The difference it can make to a business is fascinating to see. I have had various recommendations, both clients and candidates, who have been fantastic, through our marketing campaigns, networking events we attend, and our social media presence.
Having a marketing manager who is on hand to immediately advertise various roles is a huge help, and has been so valuable and helped in my success through my time here at BMC.
What’s been the biggest obstacle you’ve had to overcome?
Businesses change all of the time, it is key to growing a business. Admittedly, I can sometimes find change daunting. There has been various changes to our business that have changed the way I work- adapting to this is important. Although initially I can find it hard, I have pushed myself to adapt to these changes and the business decision has been right!
And your proudest moment so far?
There have been many, and the majority have been with BMC!
Securing a number of contracts with top businesses across the North East for BMC, exceeding my target in one month, and making the highest fee on record.
Another highlight is placing really exceptional candidates in their roles. To provide an example, a candidate I had known for a while is joining an ideal business for him, next month. Helping him through the process to the point of offer where he was so delighted, really did make me proud.
I also recently bumped into a candidate of mine in the pub this week, who I placed in a role in January of this year, he has just been promoted. To have him express thanks to me for pushing him to go for the role, which has paid off in his recent promotion, was really lovely.
Why is work so important to you?
The majority of our time is spent at work. You have to value what you do, and enjoy it! I definitely do. It is important to me for various reasons, I want to make myself proud more than anything, but also my family.
I am surrounded by successful family and friends who all work incredibly hard – perhaps that’s where it comes from!
I like knowing I am helping people find their dream jobs. I also like pushing myself, and knowing I have done everything I can for my clients. When it comes to a weekend, I will enjoy time out much more if I have pushed myself Monday-Friday.
Who inspires you?
I have had the pleasure of working with fantastic management in my time at BMC. I have learnt more in my time here, than I have anywhere else, and that is due to the time and energy management have put into my development.
Working for a team who work just as hard and are just as passionate and determined is what motivates me. I can honestly say that the team at BMC is like no other. We work together well, motivate and support each other, and are genuinely delighted when one another does well!
The energy in our office is inspiring, we are all determined. We also have such a laugh, which obviously helps!
How do you balance your career with your family?
I often work late, and sometimes by choice, work on a Sunday. I know when it’s time to switch off, and I believe it’s so important to do so. You have to make an effort to spend time with friends and family – its imperative to keeping a clear head, I think!
What are your three top pieces of advice for someone wanting to do something similar?
- Work hard. Be determined. Be resilient. Have confidence. Network. Make friends. Be honest, always. Be supportive to your colleagues. Respect people who have more experience than you, they can teach you a lot.
- Surround yourself with good people, I am lucky enough to have worked with some incredibly talented people who have taught me a lot.
- Most importantly, have a laugh!
