Laura Celebrates 1 Year with Ashley Kate
This month, we’re delighted to celebrate Laura Palmer, HR Recruitment Consultant, as she marks her one-year anniversary with us here at Ashley Kate. Laura has spent the past year specialising in junior HR recruitment in the Midlands, connecting emerging HR professionals with exciting opportunities and helping clients build the next generation of HR talent. Her passion for people, keen eye for potential, and commitment to delivering an exceptional candidate and client experience have made her an invaluable part of the Ashley Kate team.
To celebrate her milestone, we caught up with Laura to look back on her first year, reflect on her highlights, and talk about what she’s most looking forward to in the year ahead.
What have you enjoyed most about your first year recruiting within the HR sector at Ashley Kate?
I’ve really enjoyed building relationships with both candidates and clients. I’m a real people person, and HR professionals are incredibly people-focused, so being able to connect, have great conversations, and develop meaningful relationships has been a highlight for me. I’ve also learnt a huge amount about the depth and variety within HR, which has given me real insight into how important HR is in shaping the core of a business.
What’s been your proudest moment or achievement this year?
Making a positive impact on the team and building strong relationships within the HR community. It’s not just about the business side – forming genuine friendships within the wider network has been something I’m really proud of.
How do you build strong relationships with HR professionals and clients?
By being honest, transparent, and above all, consultative. Communication is key – staying in touch with my candidates and clients, supporting them not only with recruitment but also with market insights and challenges. My goal is always to become a trusted advisor, not just a service provider.
What’s one thing that’s surprised you or stood out about working in HR recruitment?
What has really stood out is how friendly and supportive people are. It’s great to have meaningful conversations with HR leaders, and I’ve learnt so much from them, as well as from my manager, who has over 20 years of HR experience. The knowledge they share is second to none.
What are your goals and aspirations as you move into your second year with Ashley Kate?
My goals are to become the top biller in 2026, progress to senior consultant, and establish myself as the number one trusted HR specialist for junior HR roles across the Midlands – not much!
A huge congratulations to Laura on her one-year anniversary with Ashley Kate. Over the past year, her energy, dedication, and people-first approach have made a real impact – strengthening client relationships and helping countless HR professionals take the next step in their careers. We’re so proud of everything Laura has achieved and can’t wait to see her continue to grow and succeed as part of our team.