Meet David Parker: Driving Excellence Through Specialized Training
David Parker is a well-respected member of the Oliver James team and a prime example of our commitment to building great futures with people. His career trajectory demonstrates the brand’s flexibility and dedication to retaining top talent. David began his journey on the recruitment front lines before moving into internal talent attraction and eventually settling into our award-winning Learning and Development (L&D) team.
As a Lead L&D Consultant, David is instrumental in ensuring our people-first mindset remains at the heart of everything we do. In this Q&A, we explore the professional journey of one of the company’s most effective trainers.
A Journey from Specialist Recruitment to Lead L&D Consultant
David, when did you join the business and what is your current role?
“I joined Oliver James in 2011. Over the years, I have worn several hats. I started on the actuarial desk, where I was mentored on the candidate side and earned a promotion within three months. After three years, I sought a new challenge and transitioned into talent attraction. My objective was clear: find and bring great people into our recruitment agency.
I realized that meaningful interaction with talented people was my primary driver. After successfully placing the Head of Learning & Development, I found my true place in the business. Today, I am the lead L&D consultant for our UK and Ireland offices.”
What is your professional background?
“I attended the University of Northumbria but left my course after 18 months. Ironically, I loved university life but not the traditional learning environment. I transitioned into direct sales, which was a great fit for my outgoing personality. I spent two years in face-to-face selling before realizing it wasn’t a long-term prospect. I joined OJ shortly after, and the rest is history.”
Finding Career Opportunities in the Recruitment Industry
What attracted you to a career in recruitment?
“My wife actually suggested it. She was interviewing for roles in Manchester and her recruiter thought I would be a natural fit. At the time, I possessed the core attributes for success: I was positive, hard-working, and eager to learn.
The benefits were also a significant draw. The competitive salary and fast-track progression offered a clear path to a professional, corporate environment. I received three offers on the same day, but Oliver James felt like the most natural fit.”
Why did you choose Oliver James over other recruitment companies?
“The people were the deciding factor. My interviews were with Oliver and James, the MDs. They were incredibly personable and their vision for the business was entrepreneurial and ambitious. They weren’t selling a pipe dream; their plans were realistic and backed by measurable results. Seeing the MDs on the sales floor of a 75-person company was rare. Even as we have grown to 350 people, that grounded leadership remains unchanged.”
Developing Talent and Building Great Futures
What does your day-to-day entail?
“Variety is essential for me. This is not a typical desk job. I am constantly on the phone with people globally, attending meetings, and leading sessions in training rooms. My work ranges from one-to-one coaching for new starters to developing senior directors. We utilize the latest learning technology to ensure our L&D programs are innovative and effective.”
What is the most rewarding part of your role?
“Seeing the people I have coached achieve their goals is incredibly gratifying. This industry requires resilience and a willingness to learn. Whether it is a first deal, a promotion, or a team hire, I take immense pride in being part of their success. This is exactly why I moved into L&D.”
A Culture of Continual Growth and Innovation
How would you describe the culture at Oliver James?
“It is a culture of continual improvement where we consistently strive to be the best. We are always looking at how we can amplify our results and inspire record-breaking performance across the business. If I had to sum up the company in three words, they would be: hardworking, positive, and innovative.”
How has the business recognized your achievements?
“I was named the 2014 OJ Personality of the Year and have received several promotions, moving from L&D consultant to lead L&D consultant. For me, the most meaningful recognition comes from the positive feedback we receive on our courses and seeing the tangible impact of our training.”
Advice for Those Seeking New Career Opportunities
What advice would you give to someone thinking of applying to Oliver James?
“Research us online and check our Glassdoor to get a sense of our values. However, the best way to understand us is to visit our offices. Whatever your professional goals are, you will find a success story here that mirrors your ambitions. We value confidence and a positive mindset.”
Where do you see your future at the company?
“Our team is working on exciting projects involving D&I and new internal communication platforms. Our vision is for our learning function to rival those of major global institutions like Barclays or Deutsche Bank. Personally, I aim to lead the European initiative for L&D as we continue our global expansion.”
If you’re visited in a career at Oliver James, visit our Work For Us page or contact us.
Connect with David View David Parker’s LinkedIn Profile
