Get to know… Melanie Pye

What do you do at MRG?

I work in the Schools team, responsible for placing non-academic professionals into Independent Schools and Academy Trusts. Roles include, but are not limited to, Chief Operating Officers, Bursars, Directors of Estates, Directors of Finance and Operations, Heads of Human Resources and Recruitment and Admissions.

What are you most proud about that you have achieved in your career to date?

I have a few but I guess if you relate it to MRG – building an established client base.

How did you get into recruitment at MRG, and why?

I joined MRG in 2012, having been through a number of recessions and having a young daughter, my priorities changed, and I wanted a role that could use my recruitment skills but without the pressure. I joined MRG to work with Ben Duffill, heading up the research function predominantly focused on sourcing project and estates management professionals for the Higher Education Sector. Fast forward 2 years, the consultant who focused on PM left and the timing was perfect – I was ready to move back into a 360-recruitment role, I worked in the property and real estate team, working with project management consultancies for 7 years before joining the Schools team in January 2022.

From the start, I have found MRG to be a proactive business, allowing consultants to explore /  progress their career, which is evident from my journey here.

What energises you about working in this sector?

It’s dynamic and the skyline is constantly changing. I get a buzz out of finding candidates their “work home” as well as seeing individuals progress through their career.

What is the biggest thing that’s changed in recruitment since you started?

Fundamentally – recruitment hasn’t changed in terms of match making i.e. right job for the candidate, and the best candidate for the client – however, the industry has certainly evolved since I first entered it 25 years ago. Emails didn’t exist, we were old school. Either selling a candidate on the phone or offering a working interview. Occasionally we used to fax CVs as well.

I would also say that as professionals we have adapted and progressed with an appreciation that one communication style doesn’t fit all and making sure we tailor communication to their profession / seniority in the business for example.

What do you think the biggest misconception people have about you is?

Just because I make cakes, it doesn’t mean I like to eat them (except my Christmas cake).

What’s one thing that most people don’t know about you?

I’m actually going to go with 2 things…

I trained as a clinical hypnotherapist when I was 30. I’ve never practiced, and before you ask… No, I can’t turn you into a chicken – or can I?

Secondly, I used to ride a motorbike (my commute is too far now). One time, when I was leaving the gym in my bike kit, I was told I was cool by a celebrity (who I won’t name) who was at the Waldorf having a beer with his agent!

What’s the best advice anyone has every given you?

“Treat people how you would want to be treated” – something my mother taught me at a very young age

And

Never stop learning…

What three words would your colleagues use to describe you?

Persistent, netball geek

And finally, who would play you in the movie about your life?

Helena Bonham-Carter

Get in touch with Melanie for an informal chat about how MRG can help you and your recruitment needs.

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