We’re pleased to welcome Michaela Baddeley to OFR as our new Recruitment Coordinator, based in our Manchester office. Bringing experience from both agency and in-house recruitment, Michaela joins us at an exciting time as we continue to grow across the UK and Europe.
Passionate about connecting people with opportunities where they can thrive, Michaela is already working closely with our teams to support recruitment activity, enhance candidate experience and help us attract more talented people who will continue to shape OFR’s future. We caught up with her to learn more about her career journey, what attracted her to OFR, and her advice for anyone considering a career with us.
1. Background & Career Journey
Can you tell us a bit about your career journey so far and what led you into recruitment?
I actually started my career in a law firm, but I fell into recruitment while studying for my master’s degree because I needed a role that offered flexibility around my university schedule. What began as a practical decision quickly turned into a career I genuinely enjoyed, and I haven’t looked back since!
What aspects of recruitment or people-focused roles have you enjoyed most, and why?
The most rewarding part of recruitment is helping someone make a career move that has a positive impact on their life, whether that’s achieving a better work-life balance, development opportunities, or progressing their career. Knowing you’ve played a part in that journey is incredibly fulfilling. I especially enjoy working with graduates who are taking their first steps into the professional world, and it’s always great to see where their careers take them further down the line.
2. Joining OFR
What attracted you to OFR, and what made you feel it was the right next step?
Initially, there were plenty of green flags when it came to OFR, from the job description and benefits to the company culture. That positive impression continued throughout the interview process, where I had the chance to meet some of the lovely people who make OFR what it is. What really made it feel like the right next step was the opportunity to use my recruitment experience to help shape and improve processes and ways of working. It was exciting to join a business where I felt I could make a real impact, and where the hiring managers had confidence in what I could bring to the role. It felt like a great opportunity, and a company I’d genuinely enjoy being part of.
What stood out to you about OFR’s culture, values or way of working?
The Employee Ownership model was something that really stood out to me, as it gives everyone a voice and the opportunity to have a real say in the business. There’s also a strong sense of trust at OFR, whether that’s through flexible working or autonomy in how you approach your work. Most importantly, everyone is genuinely friendly and supportive, and that shines through in the culture that’s been created.
How do you see your experience supporting our people and growth plans?
As a growing business, having robust and scalable processes becomes increasingly important, which makes it an exciting time to join OFR. Having worked in both agency and in-house recruitment, I’ve gained a well-rounded perspective on what makes a recruitment process successful. For me, it’s about creating an experience that works effectively for the business while also delivering a positive experience for candidates and hiring managers. I hope to bring fresh ideas and best practice that not only improve processes but also support productivity, efficiency and continued growth.
3. Looking Ahead
What are you most excited to get involved with in your new role?
I’m excited to bring fresh ideas and help introduce new processes and ideas, but first and foremost, I’m looking forward to getting to know the people across the business. Building strong relationships with hiring managers, understanding their priorities, and learning what works well for them will be key. Having that understanding of the wider business will help me put the right processes in place and make a meaningful impact from the outset.
Are there any areas of recruitment or people experience you’re particularly keen to develop further?
OFR places a strong emphasis on learning and development. I’m fortunate to be working alongside a brilliant HR team, and I’m already learning a lot about areas I haven’t had much exposure to before. I’m looking forward to continuing to develop my knowledge, broadening my experience beyond recruitment and gaining a deeper understanding of the wider people function.
What would success look like for you in your first year at OFR?
Getting to know the wider team and hiring managers, and making improvements to recruitment processes, would be a great start. From a recruitment perspective, success would also be helping the business attract and hire great talent efficiently, while identifying opportunities to bring more recruitment activity in-house.
4. Recruitment Approach
What do you think makes a great candidate or a great hiring experience?
A great hiring experience starts with a clear process and strong communication. Recruitment is all about people, and things don’t always move as quickly or as smoothly as we’d like. As long as there’s transparency, regular communication, and clear expectations throughout the process, it should be a positive experience for everyone involved.
What do you enjoy most about connecting people with the right opportunities?
I enjoy helping people find roles where they’ll be genuinely happy and successful. The right opportunity can have a huge impact on someone’s career and overall quality of life, so it’s rewarding to know you’ve played a part in making that connection.
What advice would you give to someone applying for a role in a consultancy like OFR?
Do your research. I don’t think you can ever be overprepared when it comes to understanding a company and the role. Ask questions. Most importantly, be yourself – authenticity goes a long way.
5. Personal Perspective & Interests
What’s something your new colleagues might be surprised to learn about you?
I have qualifications in makeup artistry and it’s something I’ve always had a huge passion for.
Outside of work, what do you enjoy doing to unwind?
I’m quite fond of a mid-week cinema trip. I think it’s important to make time for things during the week that aren’t just work. I also enjoy cooking and staying active.
If you weren’t working in recruitment, what might you be doing instead?
Maybe law if I’d continued down that route. But I think I’d love working with animals in some capacity too!