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Rachel Steward
Project Enhance at University of Exeter - Recruitment & Development professional - MSc Psychological Sciences student
Professional Background
Rachel Steward currently holds the position of Line Manager and Project Coordinator for Project Enhance at the University of Exeter, where she successfully oversees a vibrant team of 93 talented Digital Learning Developers and Digital Learning Assistants, comprising recent graduates and student interns. Rachel’s experience in recruitment and development is extensive, marked by her remarkable ability to enhance learning environments and create effective programs that support student development. Under her guidance, Project Enhance not only fosters digital learning but also emphasizes skill development and industry readiness.
Previously, Rachel has worn many hats within the recruitment industry, working across various reputable organizations in both the UK and New Zealand. In her role as Senior Consultant at Talent Solutions, she demonstrated her deep understanding of talent acquisition and organizational development, producing innovative recruitment strategies that address the specific needs of the organizations she collaborates with. Her focus on recruitment has always been complemented by a passion for developing future leaders, making her an integral part of any team's success.
At Chapman Tripp, Rachel's career further flourished as she stepped up from Graduate Recruitment Specialist to Recruitment Lead. Here, she played a crucial role in mobilizing recruitment efforts that attracted top graduate talent, showcasing her proficiency in managing comprehensive recruitment campaigns and developing interns. Notably, her tenure with KPMG New Zealand spans several years, where she contributed significantly as a Consultant in Graduate Recruitment, illustrating her commitment to shaping the next generation of professionals. Her early career foundation was built at Allen & Overy, where she gained vital insights into the recruitment process, setting the stage for her successful transition into influential recruitment roles.
Education and Achievements
Rachel Steward's educational background and professional achievements complement her extensive career in recruitment and development. With an academic foundation that supports her strategic insights into human resources, she has been instrumental in designing innovative graduate and internship programs that have received recognition across various industries. Rachel's commitment to excellence has not gone unnoticed; she received the prestigious New Zealand's Best Graduate Recruiter award in both 2018 and 2019 during the New Zealand Association of Graduate Employers (NZAGE) Industry Awards. These accolades underscore her strategic prowess in recruitment and her determination to foster environments where emerging talent can thrive.
Notable Contributions
Throughout her career, Rachel has not only focused on recruitment but also on long-term development initiatives that have enriched the organizations she has worked with. Her forward-thinking approach and commitment to enhancing organizational culture through effective talent management practices have led to improved employee satisfaction and retention. Moreover, Rachel’s leadership style is characterized by her dedication to mentoring and empowering her team members, ensuring that they are equipped with the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in their respective roles. By prioritizing the growth of her team, she is not just shaping future leaders but also establishing a standard of excellence within the recruitment industry.
Achievements
- Line Manager and Project Coordinator for Project Enhance at University of Exeter, leading a team of 93 Digital Learning professionals.
- Awarded New Zealand’s Best Graduate Recruiter at the NZAGE Industry Awards for two consecutive years, 2018 and 2019.
- Successfully developed and implemented award-winning recruitment campaigns across multiple industries.
- Innovated graduate/internship programs that significantly boosted student engagement and readiness for employment.
- Proven leadership within consultancy roles at Talent Solutions and Chapman Tripp, emphasizing strategic talent acquisition and management.
