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Alastair Macdonald — Recruitment & Engagement Coordinator

Name: Alastair Macdonald
Job title: Recruitment & Engagement Coordinator
Employer: Cranswick
Qualification: B.A Business Management & the Human Resource
Salary Range: £25k - £30k per annum

Describe your job in 20-25 words.
My role involves attracting top talent to the business and ensuring their continued engagement through communication and support, so we can fully utilise their unique skills and expertise.

After you qualified, did it take long to find a job?
It took 12 months to secure a position in my field after graduating, despite actively searching throughout this period. This unexpected gap year taught me to enjoy the unexpected as well as the importance of perseverance and networking in finding the right opportunity.

If you had the chance to do it all over again, what would you do the same/differently?
I would consider pursuing an apprenticeship to gain real-world experience rather than going straight into further education. Understanding the balance between practical experience and academic qualifications would have helped me enter the workforce more prepared. Gaining early exposure to a professional working environment can provide valuable insights and a clearer career path.

How long have you been doing your job?
I have been with Cranswick for 15 months, in which 13 months have been in my current role. During this time, I’ve had the opportunity to grow professionally and contribute meaningfully to the team. I started with the company on a temporary contract as a Human Resources Administrator.

Did you buy something special with your first pay cheque?
I treated myself to a top-of-the-range phone, replacing my 5-year-old device. It felt like a well-earned reward for my hard work, and while it was a treat, I also saw it as a practical investment, expecting it to last another five years or more.