RECLive25

AI in Recruitment: What We Learned at RECLive25 

The future of recruitment isn’t waiting around. And this year’s RECLive25 proved that the agencies leading the way aren’t just investing in new tools, they’re rethinking what great recruitment looks like altogether. 

Held at Kings Place, London, the conference brought together recruitment leaders, industry innovators, and policymakers for a packed day of insight and strategy. The theme, “The market of today and the opportunity of tomorrow,” was brought to life through panel sessions, keynote speakers, and breakouts focused on transformation, trust, and the role of tech in shaping what comes next. 

We were proud to be part of the day, with Roxi Sweeney, our Head of Marketing and Digital, speaking on one of the most future-focused sessions of the event: “AI: The Use Cases Not to Ignore.” 

AI at the Centre, but People at the Core 

The breakout was chaired by Kate Shoesmith, Deputy CEO of the REC, who introduced and led the conversation with a panel of senior voices from across the industry. Speaking on the panel with Roxi were Annie Andrews (Chief Executive, Curo Services) and David Stott (Vice President, Bullhorn) for a conversation about what AI looks like in practice for recruitment firms, and why it’s as much about mindset as it is about models. 

Roxi shared how The Best Connection is approaching digital transformation, including the foundations needed to make AI work: a people focus, leadership alignment, and team confidence. It’s not about introducing a tool. It’s about enabling a culture shift. 

“The tech won’t be what constrains you, there are so many options available. You will be constrained by people. You can change tech overnight, but you can’t change people overnight. The best thing you can do for your tech strategy is to invest in your people strategy.”  

– Roxi Sweeney, The Best Connection 

This idea resonated across the session: that AI works best when it’s embedded into the rhythm of the business, not bolted on. Tools should support the people behind the placements, not replace them. 

Key Takeaways from the AI Panel 

The session moved fast but left behind some practical, grounded advice: 

1. Start with a problem, not a platform. AI is only valuable if it’s solving something real. 
2. Data doesn’t need to be perfect, but it does need to be clean. Sort the basics first. 
3. Adoption is the biggest challenge. Without trust, the tech won’t deliver value. 
4. AI should support, not override, human decisions. Recruiters still call the shots. 

What made the session stand out was its realism. Rather than focusing on theory or hype, the panel explored what it takes to make AI work within a recruitment business, from upskilling teams and building trust to securing early wins that demonstrate value. Roxi emphasised the importance of making technology feel accessible, and the conversation reinforced the need for people-first change strategies that empower recruiters, not overwhelm them. 

RECLive25 offered more than just insight; it sparked important conversations about how recruitment businesses adapt, grow, and lead responsibly. The AI breakout was a standout example of what’s possible when people come together to share ideas and challenge assumptions. As agencies prepare for continued change, it’s clear that transformation won’t just be about new tools. It will be shaped by culture, leadership, and the confidence to use technology with purpose. Because in recruitment and in business, trust is still built by people. 

What Else Happened at RECLive25? 

Across every session, there was one clear theme: change is here, and the best agencies are moving with it. Whether through smarter use of technology, closer client relationships, or strategies to support and retain great people, the message was consistent: this is a time to lead with clarity and confidence. 

The day included: 

• The economic and political outlook is helping recruiters prepare for a shifting landscape ahead of the general election. 

• Advise on building stronger client relationships, standing out in competitive markets, and staying compliant. 

• The future of recruitment talent focuses on how to attract, retain, and develop people who want long-term careers in recruitment. 

• Leadership in change, with strategies to guide teams through uncertainty and maintain momentum in a fast-moving world. 

• Ministerial keynote from Justin Madders MP, Employment Rights Minister, who shared insight on the upcoming Employment Rights Bill and what it means for staffing firms. 

Alongside these sessions, RECLive25 delivered a wave of inspiration on everything from inclusion to influence. There were powerful conversations about attracting long-term talent to the sector, strategies for navigating disruption, and creating lasting value for clients. 

Key quotes from the day captured the mood: 

• “People look to work for flexibility. It’s no longer just about salary.” – Kate Shoesmith 

• “The real work is getting the detail right… Lots of the real practical elements are covered in the secondary legislation.” – Justin Madders MP 

• “AI is at the point where it can do a lot of that entry-level work. That’s a challenge for government and workforce planning.” – Jimmy McLoughlin OBE 

And to close the day, leadership expert Timothy Bradshaw reminded delegates that, “Even with all the tech, don’t underestimate the power of human communication and connection.” 

What It Means for The Best Connection 

Being part of the REC means contributing to the conversation, not just listening in. Events like RECLive25 give us the opportunity to reflect, share, and connect with peers who are equally committed to raising standards in the industry. 

As we continue our own transformation journey, we’re focused on building systems that make work better for our consultants, our clients, and the people we place. AI will play a role in that. But it won’t lead the change. People will. 

Because no matter how recruitment evolves, trust will always be built by people. And we’re proud to be investing in both.