Most growing businesses don’t have a people problem - they have a system problem.

About this event

Most growing businesses don’t have a people problem - they have a system problem.

Today is about stepping back and making sure attraction, recruitment and retention are working together to support your growth - not fighting against it. More important than ever in this rapidly changing future of the workplace.

This session is designed to move beyond “HR activity” and into commercial impact - helping you attract, hire and retain the right people to deliver your growth plans.

We’ll focus on three critical pressure points most scaling SMEs are experiencing right now:

  • Attraction – Why the right people aren’t choosing you (even when roles are open)
  • Recruitment – Why hiring is slower, riskier, and more expensive than it should be
  • Retention & Development – Why good people leave or plateau once they’re in


About the speakers

David Culley

David Culley is a co-owner of Pure Resourcing Solutions and Pure Executive, with over 25 years’ experience in recruitment, having started his career in 2000. He specialises in senior, C-suite appointments, leading search-led processes that are known for their depth, rigour and attention to detail.

Much of David’s work is with small to mid-sized, owner-managed businesses, where hiring decisions are often driven by significant moments of change. This might include business transformation, rapid growth, or ownership transition, where the right leadership appointment is critical to future success.

He holds a degree in Occupational Psychology, which underpins his approach to assessment and selection, and he is currently training as a hypnotherapist, reflecting a broader interest in human behaviour, performance and development.


Mark Wishart

Mark Wishart specialises in the recruitment of Accountancy & Finance professionals throughout Cambridgeshire. He has over 20 years' experience and an excellent track record working in partnership with Cambridgeshire’s wide and diverse clients. Having a strong local network and reputation, Mark prides himself on building long-lasting relationships with candidates and clients alike. Mark is a Mental Health Champion and avid runner having completed 5 of the major series marathons.


Please note:

  • Participants will receive their joining details 24 hours before the webinar, along with a reminder 30 minutes before the session begins.
  • The session may be recorded and shared afterwards.
  • The chat function will be used to engage with participants.
  • If there is an external speaker, their views will be their own and may not necessarily reflect those of the CIPD.
  • If any reasonable adjustments are required, participants are encouraged to make this known and assistance will be provided.