Summary
Overview
Work history
Education
Skills
Timeline
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Karen Graham

Belfast

Summary

Motivated and results-driven Recruitment Consultant, Sales Professional, and Entrepreneur with a proven history of exceeding sales targets and delivering exceptional client service. I bring multi-award-winning experience from my time at Yellow Pages, combined with entrepreneurial expertise as a former business owner. I have a strong background in advertising, data, telecoms, and catering, and I am currently excelling as a Senior Recruiter at Kennedy Business Services. I am keen to take on new challenges where I can make a valuable impact.

Overview

19
19
years of professional experience

Work history

Senior Recruitment Consultant

Kennedy Business Services
02.2022 - 10.2024
  • As a Senior Recruitment Consultant, I manage both permanent and temporary recruitment desks, placing candidates across a wide range of industries including insurance, the charity sector, healthcare, IT, engineering, business management, and energy
  • My role requires a deep understanding of each sector's specific needs and challenges, allowing me to tailor recruitment strategies for optimal results.

High Volume Recruitment Consultant

02.2022 - 10.2024
  • Led high-volume recruitment primarily in the public sector and facilities management, as well as Finance, Customer Service, HR, and Senior Management
  • Collaborated with internal teams and hiring managers to meet and exceed recruitment targets
  • Sourced diverse talent pools and conducted thorough assessments, ensuring high standards of hire
  • Ensured compliance and promoted diversity in a fast-paced environment.

Online Teacher & Recruiter

PalFish (TEFL)
02.2019 - 12.2022
  • Delivered online English lessons to primary school students in China, using a range of curriculum resources
  • Prepared students for tests and exams, while also teaching cultural lessons
  • Recruited and managed other teachers, conducting video interviews and meeting key performance targets
  • Maintained high standards of timekeeping and scheduling adherence.

Owner/Operator

Cupcakes by K
10.2013 - 01.2019
  • Launched and successfully ran a bespoke cake and cupcake business, overseeing all aspects from design to client consultations
  • Expanded into corporate sales and the wedding market through strategic marketing and trade shows
  • Conducted baking and decoration workshops for individuals and groups.

Sales Executive

Yell Ltd
02.2006 - 10.2013
  • Consistently ranked among the top 100 salespeople at Yell, winning a Gold Award for sales excellence and several quarterly awards
  • Specialized in selling directory advertising (print and online), managing high-value client accounts, and meeting challenging revenue targets
  • Provided training and support to team members, while consistently exceeding sales goals.

Senior Account Manager

IDS Irish Data Services
06.2005 - 01.2006
  • Managed key client accounts while driving new business through outbound sales efforts
  • Cross-sold a full range of products to maximize profits and ensure customer satisfaction.

Education

BA (Hons) English & Politics -

Manchester Metropolitan University
Manchester

Skills

  • Proficient in Microsoft Office and various CRM systems (SAP, Zoho)
  • Strong ability to streamline operations and boost productivity through technology
  • Skilled in managing and optimizing customer relationships
  • Adaptable and quick to learn new tools and technologies
  • Candidate assessment testing
  • Recruitment marketing strategies
  • Bespoke service delivery
  • Sales acumen
  • Recruitment software proficiency
  • LinkedIn recruiting tools

Timeline

Senior Recruitment Consultant

Kennedy Business Services
02.2022 - 10.2024

High Volume Recruitment Consultant

02.2022 - 10.2024

Online Teacher & Recruiter

PalFish (TEFL)
02.2019 - 12.2022

Owner/Operator

Cupcakes by K
10.2013 - 01.2019

Sales Executive

Yell Ltd
02.2006 - 10.2013

Senior Account Manager

IDS Irish Data Services
06.2005 - 01.2006

BA (Hons) English & Politics -

Manchester Metropolitan University
Karen Graham