Phones ringing, animated chatter and cheers when making a placement, Sugarman Education’s HQ is vibrant and energetic – just like its surroundings. Nestled in the corner of the famous Soho Square, the area is trendy and has a unique vibe and this continues as you walk into the contemporary office space.
Although now working in a new office, Sugarman Education has operated out of London since it was established in 2006 and prides itself on the long-lasting relationships it has with its clients and candidates. The majority of the team have five or more years’ service including Team Leader, Lieneke.
The cocktail of success
A former music teacher, who “fell” into recruitment, Lieneke has made a successful career in the industry thanks to her determination, ambition and eagerness to succeed.
Lieneke was enticed by the bright lights of London and she travelled from South Africa to England’s capital city after graduating with a Bachelors in Education. She planned to travel around Europe but after falling in love with the city, she soon settled in the area.
From Teacher to Recruitment Consultant
Her first role in London was working as a supply teacher at a special educational needs school teaching pupils with autism and coincidentally this school is now one of Lieneke’s long-standing clients.
“Although I loved music and teaching, I have always had a passion for business and so I decided to explore opportunities within recruitment. I had dealt with agencies when I was a supply teacher so I thought I would give it a go.
“At the beginning it was hard. I had to build a name for myself. I learnt on the job and pushed myself to succeed. Working at Sugarman has enabled me to do this and I love what I do. I can’t see myself doing anything else, to be honest.”
Sharing experiences
Despite Lieneke having no experience within recruitment, her teaching background helped her when building relationships and has assisted her candidates to shape their future.
She explained: “When I tell my clients that I have been a teacher and worked in SEN schools they know I understand what type of qualities they are looking for when recruiting supply teachers and teaching assistants. I understand the challenges they face, the pressures they are under and what makes a reliable member of staff.”
Shaping a future
Since joining Sugarman Education Lieneke has shaped her future and has developed her career in recruitment. She joined Sugarman Education as a Recruitment Consultant, before being promoted to Senior Consultant and has now taken on the role of Team Leader. This sees her take on the extra responsibilities of training and developing a new consultant, Jordan so he too can shape his future.
“I suppose with line managing someone the teacher side of me is coming out again. I want to give Jordan as much support and understanding of the role so he too can forge a career within the recruitment sector.”
This opportunity has arisen since Sugarman Education became part of Affinity Workforce and Lieneke believes that there are more opportunities to progress now that Sugarman is part of the Affinity family.
“I am proud to work at Sugarman Education. I know it sounds cliché but there is a family feel around the team. Since being part of Affinity Workforce there seem to be even more opportunities to develop your skills and career if you want to.”
If you’re looking for supply work within schools across London and Essex or you want to start a career in recruitment then get in touch.
