Chairperson of Pertemps Network Group
Carmen has over 30 years' experience in recruitment and is currently chairperson of Pertemps Network Group, a £1bn turnover operation.
She has steered the business through two recessions and implemented a strategy for growth which saw turnover increased tenfold with customer service at the heart of recruitment solutions services. She is responsible for promoting and delivering best practice in the field of attraction, recruitment and retention of talent on behalf of clients ranging from SME's to blue chip organisations, servicing both the public and private sectors across the UK.
Carmen is an active Board member of Race for Opportunity. Carmen is a strong advocate for equality, diversity and inclusion in the workplace and as well as heading up the ED & I committee within Pertemps she works proactively with external customers to help them achieve their objectives.
What are the challenges for business leaders?
"Finding talented people and the right skills for the future. Where are they going to find them now and in the future?
Managing people and managing people in lots of different circumstances, working in the UK, working abroad, working at home and in the office. Also, creating a culture with the right mix of people that they can relate to and work with.
Technology and the pace of change with technology and mixing the virtual with the physical world.
Business sustainability is becoming the number one issue. How do we care for people and the planet? Business leaders need to find a way of managing all those things together and find a way of remaining visible to their staff."
What is the role of universities?
"The role of universities has never been more important – we are going to see more collaboration. We need to be working together to identify what requirements for the future look like. What research do we need and how do we fund it?"
Why did you want to be a Visiting Professor?
"Hugely excited at being involved. We need bright, young, educated people for the future with new ideas and new innovation."