Stephen Baldwin

About Stephen

What industry and specialisms do you focus on?

I focus on civil engineering, construction, and infrastructure projects - particularly within defence, rail, and highways.

What roles do you recruit most frequently?

I most frequently recruit surveyors - topographic, land, and utility surveyors, as well as white-collar management roles and quantity surveyors, project managers, design engineers, structural engineers, and architectural engineers.

What do you enjoy most about working in recruitment?

I like the sense of humour amongst my colleagues, and I get a real buzz from placing someone in a permanent role. I enjoy the challenge that comes with it.

What sets you apart in how you work with clients and candidates?

I do a lot of listening and asking questions. I like to get underneath the skin of a client’s needs and really understand their problems, which helps me find the right solutions.

What’s been a standout moment or placement in your career?

Placing a Vice President for Cisco in New York back in the ’90s was a standout moment for me - definitely the most memorable placement of my career.

How does your background help you in recruitment?

I come from a background in advertising sales and recruitment within the military. Those experiences taught me the importance of listening and always being open to learning.

What can clients expect when working with you?

Devotion, an immediate response, and honesty. I like to keep communication clear and straightforward.

What advice would you give to someone looking for their next role in your sector?

Choose a role that offers plenty of variety and diversity, and look for a company that invests in long-term training and development.

What trends or challenges are you seeing in your market right now?

Candidates are harder to find. They’re more loyal these days and tend to stay with a company for a long time after they’ve been trained, which makes recruitment more competitive.

What do you enjoy most about working at HSQ?

Definitely the people around me. It’s a supportive and enjoyable environment to work in.

What do you enjoy doing outside of work?

I enjoy fishing and I’m a glider pilot. Both help me unwind and give me a sense of freedom outside of work.

Is there a motto you try to bring into your work?

Stick to it. Persistence always pays off.

How has your career evolved since you started in recruitment?

I started as a consultant and worked my way up to team manager and then area manager, overseeing five offices.

What’s the biggest lesson you’ve learned in your career so far?

Don’t give in.

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