Octo:
Candidates / Clients
Tel: 0113 532 3418
43 Park Place,Leeds,West Yorkshire,LS1 2RY
Our Story
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Connectivity is central to our working lives. So why should our approach to talent acquisition be any different? At Blue Octopus, we don’t think it should.
With a decade of experience, we’ve made a bold move to set up a fresh proposition that joins the dots for everyone. As a dynamic business, we are true disruptors in the marketplace. We don’t have layers of bureaucracy. Just a Board and a team of over 30 ready and willing to take risks and lead the way in talent acquisition.
We are dedicated to driving progression – for our clients and for their potential talent. We don’t waste time, money or other precious resources. We know what we need to do, and we get on and achieve it. We listen to the market and we use our knowledge and insights to develop smart solutions and next generation technology that address end users’ needs.
Recruitment was the starting point. The end has yet to be defined.
Our Values
We areConnected
We areSeamless
We areAssured
We areBold
We areSmart
We areDynamic
Whatever your question or project, or even if you just want to pick our brains, we’re more than happy for you to get in touch with one of our key contacts.
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Director
Digital Director
Operations Director
Client Delivery Manager
Service Proposal Coordinator
Client Delivery Team Leader
Client Delivery Coordinator
Key Account Administrator / Resourcer
Key Account Administrator
Client Delivery Administrator
Marketing Executive
Senior Developer
Developer
Junior Developer
Accounts Manager
Finance Manager
Whether that value comes in the form of non fee-based advice or supporting them in finding talent that allows their business to grow.
At Blue Octopus, I’m responsible for driving the strategic direction of the business, helping it reach its full potential and engaging excellent talent to drive us forwards.
If not this job: I’d be working for MI6!
Contact Jen Riley
E: jen.riley@blueoctopus.co.uk
T: 0113 532 3418
We’ve reached so many milestones over the years and I’m certain there are many more ahead. Weather permitting, I love unwinding in the garden at home. Or on holiday!
Top tip: Ask for feedback to ensure your candidate experience is on point
Contact Liam Coleman
E: liam.coleman@blueoctopus.co.uk
As a client-facing Director, I’m heavily involved with business development. My responsibilities also include helping to make key decisions that support Blue Octopus’ continued growth.
With five daughters, I’m kept very busy away from work. I do enjoy cooking and winding down with a glass of red though!
Contact Chris Coleman
E: chris.coleman@blueoctopus.co.uk
As Digital Director, I oversee the Development team at Blue Octopus. One of my most memorable moments has to have been working right through to 7am to migrate a client’s data during minimal impacting hours.
Programming is what I do for fun (honestly!) – so that’s generally what you’ll find me doing outside of work.
Contact Marc Wrench
E: marc.wrench@blueoctopus.co.uk
In addition to managing the Client Delivery team, I provide account management for some of our largest clients and run online demonstrations of Octo Platinum.
Providing a positive candidate journey can truly elevate your employer brand.
Ideal night in: Games night with my family – and a nice glass of wine!
Contact Kelly Laurenson
E: kelly.laurenson@blueoctopus.co.uk
I really enjoy showing businesses how we can add genuine value. Operating in a competitive environment motivates me – which is exactly why I’m a keen football player too.
You can find me out with the family on a weekend, most likely having a meal.
Top travel destination: Greece
Contact Keith Tottingham
E: keith.tottingham@blueoctopus.co.uk
When it comes to attracting and engaging top talent, it’s more important than ever to clearly define the job role and to really sell your company culture. It’s a candidate-driven market.
Favourite movie: Got to be Rounders – Matt Damon and Edward Norton are great
Contact Alex Spivey
E: alex.spivey@blueoctopus.co.uk
It’s fantastic being that first ‘stepping stone’ in the process of building strong and effective partnerships. Over the years, I’ve been lucky enough to be involved with some of our longest-running client relationships.
From looking after four children (plus pets!) to running and DIY, I’m a busy woman when I’m not at work. My favourite way to wind down is going for a run with my headphones in!
Contact Laura Coleman
E: laura.coleman@blueoctopus.co.uk
T: 01943 461327
I believe it’s vital we remember that candidates are consumers. Your marketing activity can cross over to support your recruitment function too. Ensure your candidate experience is both informative and engaging.
Hobby: Cooking (I love anything food-related)
Contact Kallon Mountain
E: kallon.mountain@blueoctopus.co.uk
Two of the most important things to remember when it comes to talent? 1) You need to make sure your recruitment process is as streamlined as possible, and 2) if you find a candidate you like, don’t hang around! Being proactive is absolutely key.
Outside of work, you’ll probably find me hanging out with friends (alongside a bucket of G&T).
Contact Steph Long
E: steph.long@blueoctopus.co.uk
There is no typical day for me but that’s why I like my job. I might be writing job adverts and posting them to job boards in the morning and calling candidates about their interviews in the afternoon.
When I’m not at work, I’m usually running here, there and everywhere with my little boy.
Favourite movie: Bridesmaids
Contact Kelsie Bolton
E: kelsie.bolton@blueoctopus.co.uk
Communication is such a significant aspect of what I do – as well as in talent management as a whole. It’s great to be able to join the dots between managers and the right talent.
Away from work, I love going to gigs and music festivals.
Contact Emma Johnsen
E: emma.johnsen@blueoctopus.co.uk
When it comes to my job, there’s no better feeling than matching a candidate with a vacancy and knowing I’ve provided a high-quality experience. For my client and the candidate.
Favourite TV series: Game of Thrones or Killing Eve… you can’t beat a bit of gore and drama
Contact Vicky Nicholson
E: vicky.nicholson@blueoctopus.co.uk
I’m lucky enough to get to speak with people from a huge variety of industries on a day-to-day basis. Not to mention people from all walks of life. That keeps my job interesting!
Unofficial job title: Queen of Spreadsheets / Team Transport Coordinator
Contact Ashleigh Boocock
E: ashleigh.boocock@blueoctopus.co.uk
I first joined Blue Octopus in a Client Delivery Administrator position. I’ve since worked my way up to my current role, supporting a number of high-volume clients by sourcing and managing talent.
Most memorable moment: Breaking my ankle at the Christmas party!
Contact Amie Gee
E: amie.gee@blueoctopus.co.uk
It’s fortunate I love talking as I spend the majority of my day on the phone! Whether I’m answering questions for candidates, booking interviews or contacting people about suitable opportunities.
Favourite TV series: Can’t Pay We’ll Take It Away (I’ve watched every episode!)
Contact Holly Quantrill
E: holly.quantrill@blueoctopus.co.uk
As Client Delivery Administrator, my day involves answering incoming calls to the office, answering questions or offering advice. I search CV databases for talent for the vacancies we’re working on and schedule interviews to reduce administration for our clients.
I’m a huge ‘Friends’ fan – I know a lot of random facts!
Contact Amelia Greenbank
E: amelia.greenbank@blueoctopus.co.uk
I’ve seen the capabilities of the tech and services we offer. So I feel pretty privileged to be able to deliver our message to market at such a pivotal time – both for the business and talent acquisition.
Favourite book: To Kill A Mockingbird – it’s all about doing the right thing even when it seems hopeless!
Contact Grace Procter
E: grace.procter@blueoctopus.co.uk
I’m quite a recent addition to Blue Octopus, having just joined the in-house IT team. I’m sure I’ll be adding some memorable moments in the years to come.
Aside from programming, which is something I really enjoy, I’m also a runner. It’s a good way to unwind.
Contact Wayne King-Farlow
E: wayne.king-farlow@blueoctopus.co.uk
One of my proudest achievements to date is progressing to my current role of Developer. I joined the business with no experience and have since been able to learn and progress. It’s awesome.
My family is growing quickly. I don’t want to miss any of it, so my evenings and weekends are spent enjoying time with them.
Contact John Gill
E: john.gill@blueoctopus.co.uk
As part of the Development team, I’m responsible for helping to maintain and drive progression in business software, hardware and support. We’re here to ensure Blue Octopus colleagues, clients and candidates can ‘get on’ without encountering issues.
When I’m at home, you’ll probably find me playing on the PC or traversing Netflix.
Contact Raymond Boyd
E: raymond.boyd@blueoctopus.co.uk
Managing invoicing, credit control and supplier payments – I also provide regular cash flow forecasts to the business. I work with a great team so there’s always something to giggle about.
I’m a member of my local book club… although it’s now more of a ‘dining out’ club. We never seem to talk about the book!
Contact Judith Shaw
E: judith.shaw@blueoctopus.co.uk
…while listening to heavy metal music. With a background in debt management, I joined Blue Octopus at the end of 2014.
Rock and heavy metal are a big part of my life, alongside reading and travel.
Favourite band: Iron Maiden (the best live act of all time)
Contact Ian McGinty
E: ian.mcginty@blueoctopus.co.uk
Our Awards
Best Online Candidate Experience
Onrec Awards 2019
Innovative Use of Social Media in the Recruitment Process
Best Use of Online Recruitment
Onrec Awards 2018
Creative Online Marketing
Onrec Awards 2017
Onrec Awards 2016
Creative Offline Marketing
Onrec Awards 2015
Onrec Awards 2014
Onrec Awards 2013
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