Working for Vitae - An Insight
Over the last decade Vitae has set about creating a brand synonymous with quality. We chose to avoid quick wins and set the bar high in terms of our product offering, focusing on candidate calibre and avoiding the numbers based approach synonymous with our industry.
The client portfolio that we now work with across the Home Counties, Greater and Central London is testament to our efforts, and proof that recruitment consultancy can be carried out by credible individuals looking to add real value at every stage of the recruitment process.
At the core of our philosophy to practice 'real' consultancy is our own recruitment policy. If you fit the mould of the stereotype, loud, in your face, Apprentice-esque show pony, then you are probably not for us. However if you have a multifaceted personality, are in tune with your own strengths and capabilities, and feel that you are a great judge of character, subtly getting under the skin of all those you make contact with, then Vitae may be the perfect environment to forge a long term career.
Each Vitae consultant is taught how to operate in all areas of recruitment from candidate sourcing, client and candidate negotiation, as well as commercial business development.
When we take on a new member of staff we do so in the knowledge that overnight success isn't always the reality when it comes to a successful career in the industry, so as long as we see ambition, drive, tenacity and intelligence, we provide a training and support structure that allows for long term learning and growth.
Aside from a highly competitive remuneration package and bonus structure, we provide a culture and working environment that is second to none. Once you research the industry you will find that for every moment of euphoria there is also the metaphorical slap in the face. We take this into account at all times and ensure that each day is filled with positivity, team based camaraderie, and a solution driven approach.
If any of this appeals, we will be keen to receive your details together with a covering note indicating why you believe you would be a good match for the sector and specifically Vitae.
All Vitae employees are on hand to give their own accounts of their respective experiences but here are just a few case studies:
Charlotte Garfield - Senior Consultant
“I graduated in 2011 with a Degree from The University of Nottingham in European Politics and decided after 3 years of hard-studying, to spend a year travelling with the hope that I would have some sort of epiphany along the way, in regards to which career path to take.
After making some unforgettable memories in India and South East Asia and returning home, I was unfortunately no closer to this revelation, until I came across an advert on one of the popular job sites for a Graduate Recruitment Scheme at Vitae.
Recruitment was something I had never before considered, as I had never identified it as an industry which offered serious career opportunities and I was guilty of associating it with all the negative stereotypes that are so commonly accepted. The advert for the opportunity at Vitae addressed all these issues and went on further to say what a positive and supportive working environment they offered, which for me, as a Graduate going into a new sector, was a hugely important factor. Whatever sector I chose to go into, I knew the key factor for me would be waking up on a Monday and actually looking forward to the working week ahead.
The first year especially was a huge learning curve, but the level of training and exposure to the entire consultative process meant my confidence grew quickly and my Directors and Colleagues worked with me to develop my skills and identify my strengths. In 3 years I’ve worked my way up to Senior Consultant and am incredibly proud looking back at what I’ve achieved in such a relatively short space of time. Vitae delivered every promise it ever made to me, in terms of professional development and a fantastic working culture that’s so unique.
Not only this, but I couldn’t be more excited about what’s to come at Vitae, as we continue to grow and I’m able to help new Graduates through the same journey.”
Nick Hallworth - Senior Associate
"I joined Vitae after Graduating with a Degree in Business and Property and 8 months subsequent recruitment experience within one of the large recruitment PLC's. Vitae approached me and to be honest I was a little hesitant as things were going well where I was and I had been assured by my then employer that I had a very bright future within the business. However, my gut feel was to accept the Vitae offer and I can honestly say that I haven't looked back.
Like with most employers looking to recruit, the Directors at Vitae told me that I would have the opportunity to practice consultancy in the true sense of the word, doing away with the numbers game that I was used to and allowing me to focus on what I am good at, namely building relationships and finding solutions. I was also promised a more collaborative environment with teamwork at its core and a mature and respectful culture.
Four years on and it is fair to say that I have totally embraced the Vitae way and achieved so much in a relatively short period of time (although a lifetime in recruitment terms!) . The training was and is comprehensive and although I am constantly reminded that this job does not fail to surprise when least expected, I feel that I can genuinely call myself a Consultant, business partnering with multiple blue chip entities and providing a real quality service.
Aside from the satisfaction of being able to carry out the job in the right way, I am also thrilled that I have secured a senior promotion based on my performance, and financial reward that has improved dramatically as I have developed in my role".
Neil French - Senior Associate
"Having taking none of my teachers' or parents' advice, I shelved my University place in favour of a brief but enriching career as a musician! Whilst the life of an amateur bass guitarist was much fun, rock-stardom never came and it didn't pay the bills! Prior to joining Vitae I gained 4 years sales experience in an entrepreneurial SME and discovered that building relationships and selling was a great way to make a living for the competitive and self motivated.
I joined Vitae in October 2007 as part of a small, ambitious team in an even smaller room and quickly found that business and fun could go hand in hand! It was a steep but enjoyable learning curve from day one, but both my initial music and business experience assured me that being part of an independent and highly entrepreneurial set up was well suited to my personality and creative side. Parts of the job that resonate with me the most today, were not that apparent when I first started, namely building a good grasp of psychology, having a broad commercial awareness and being able to meet and hold my own with individuals at all levels in boardrooms, cafes and restaurants.... whilst constantly wearing the thickest of skin! 8 years in and having now navigated the worst UK recession in generations, I have seen Vitae grow year on year and I am very proud to have been part of the growth and to have assisted with the building of finance teams for our clients, both SMEs and FTSE 100 businesses. I have grown with Vitae as a person and a professional and now enjoy wider responsibilities including recruiting for Vitae and organising networking events whilst continuing to service and grow a diverse client base".