From building a desk to leading a team: Ashleigh Anderson
posted 13 Apr 26
In this month’s Consultant Career Story, we speak with Ashleigh Anderson, Managing Consultant in Search’s Hospitality team.
Over the past four years, Ashleigh has progressed through three promotions, building her desk and developing into a leadership role. Here, she shares her journey into recruitment, what’s supported her progression, and how her role has evolved as she’s moved into managing a team.
Can you tell us about your career journey so far and what led you to join Search?
Before Covid, I was working in the beauty industry, managing a number of salons. When the pandemic hit and salons were forced to close, I made the move into recruitment, initially supporting a large nationwide account with administrative tasks.
In my previous role, I’d reached a ceiling in terms of progression and was working as a 180 recruiter, focused on servicing a single account. I wanted to develop further, particularly on the sales side, and broaden my skill set.
Search felt like the right place to do that, offering the opportunity to build a desk and take more ownership of my role.
You’ve had three promotions in four years — can you talk us through your progression and what’s helped you move forward?
It’s been a combination of strong training, leadership, and consistency.
The support from our Talent Development team has been a big factor, as well as having a manager who has always backed me and pushed me to improve. Having that balance of support and challenge has made a real difference.
My work ethic has also played a key role. I’ve always been willing to put the time in, stay consistent, and keep developing. Being open to feedback and taking on new challenges has helped me make the most of the opportunities available.
How have you found the transition into a management role, and what have you enjoyed most about that shift?
Moving into management has been a big shift and has helped me develop a new skill set.
A lot of it comes down to understanding different people and how to get the best out of them. I’ve had to become more patient, adaptable, and supportive, while also keeping performance and results front of mind.
What I’ve enjoyed most is being able to share my experience and support others in building their confidence and progressing in their own roles. Seeing people develop and succeed is a different kind of reward.
What does a typical day in the Hospitality team look like, and why would you recommend this market to others?
No two days in the Hospitality team are the same, which is one of the things I enjoy most about it.
It’s a fast-paced, high-energy environment where you’re constantly speaking with clients and candidates, reacting to bookings, and making sure shifts are filled at short notice. You need to think on your feet and stay organised.
I’d recommend this market to anyone who enjoys working at pace, building relationships, and being in a role where you can see the impact of what you’re doing day to day. It can be challenging, but that’s also what makes it engaging.
How would you describe the culture at Search and within your team?
Within my team, there’s a strong sense of teamwork. People are always willing to support each other, share ideas, and celebrate success.
Across Search, there’s a clear focus on recognising and rewarding performance. High standards are expected, but there’s also the support in place to help you get there, which creates a positive and motivating environment.
What advice would you give to someone considering a career in recruitment or joining Search?
Recruitment suits people who are driven, resilient, and enjoy working with others.
At Search, it’s important to make the most of the training and support available. It gives you a strong foundation, but progression comes from staying consistent and putting the work in over time.
If you’re looking for a role with variety, progression, and the opportunity to develop, it’s a strong option.
Ready to take the next step in your recruitment career?  Explore our current opportunities.  
Want to hear more about life at Search? Read Eilidh’s story of career progression at Search.
