Celnor Talent Acquisition Team named finalist in prestigious IHR Awards

At exactly the same time, the business entered one of the fastest periods of growth in its history. 

During the period covered by our award submission, Celnor grew from around 20 businesses to more than 45; headcount increased from approximately 1,200 to over 2,200 colleagues, and annual revenue grew from £120 million to £267 million. 

The team’s objective was never simply to recruit people; it was to build the talent infrastructure that would enable that growth. 

The team of one has grown to a team of four and a modern Talent Acquisition function has been established that supports every business across the Group. A group-wide applicant tracking system has been introduced, alongside workforce planning, recruitment governance, hiring manager development, employer branding and a consistent candidate experience, whilst preserving the entrepreneurial culture and identity that makes each of our businesses unique. 

The impact has been transformational: 

• More than 300 specialist hires delivered. 

• Nearly 400 vacancies managed. 

• Talent Acquisition ownership increased from 5% to 100% of Group recruitment. 

• Average Time to Hire reduced from 74 days to 20 days. 

• Candidate drop-off reduced from almost 50% to just 7%. 

• Agency dependency reduced from around 70% to virtually zero. 

• More than £1.2 million saved in agency costs. 

• Over £2 million in revenue capability added to the Group 

• More than 200 fee-earning specialists hired to support continued business growth.

Group Head of Talent Acquisition, David Dawson said:  

“Being recognised as an IHR Awards finalist is an incredibly proud moment for our team. 16 months ago, we were building a Talent Acquisition function from the ground up. Today, we’re finalists alongside some of the UK’s most established recruitment teams during the most competitive awards year in the event’s history. The nomination reflects the passion, resilience and professionalism of a small team that has worked tirelessly to support Celnor’s remarkable growth. It’s also recognition that great recruitment isn’t just about filling vacancies, it’s about creating the capability that enables an organisation to grow. Whatever happens on awards night, being named a finalist is already a tremendous achievement for everyone involved.” 

“I’m incredibly proud of what our Talent Acquisition team has achieved in such a short space of time. They have built a best-in-class function that plays a vital role in supporting our member companies as they continue to grow, helping them attract the talented people they need while preserving the unique cultures that make each business successful. To be recognised alongside some of the UK’s most established organisations is a fantastic achievement and thoroughly deserved. Congratulations to the whole team on this well-earned recognition.” 

Anushka Bakshi, CPO, Celnor Group. 

This year attracted the highest number of entries in the awards’ 15-year history, making it the most competitive year the awards have ever seen. The winners of each category will be announced at an awards evening in London on November 25.