Nikki Foster
Senior Manager in Southampton
Nikki shares her experience on becoming a mother and advancing her career at Robert Half.
Why did you decide to join Robert Half?
I used to work for Reed and decided to join Robert Half as it was a much stronger and more promising brand. In 2011, I started as a recruitment consultant in the Swindon office specialising on the placement of finance and accounting professionals on a permanent basis. As I had some basic knowledge of the recruitment landscape, I jumped at the chance to make an impression in my first year and was recognised as Rookie of the Year, something I’m still proud of today.
At what point did you decide wanted to become a manager?
I always had a natural inclination to manage people and I knew that this would be the next step for me. I play field hockey, I'm part of a team and I try to instil that same comradery in the office.
What training and support did you find most helpful?
I was selected to join the Division Manager Readiness programme where we are taught firstly about self-awareness and the type of person I am, management accounts and budgets, motivating teams versus their individual motivations, and how to grow and develop others whilst maintaining consistency on my business -- and it was fantastic. In 2013, I got promoted into the role. It's a difficult role because trying to push along the people you're managing and grow them the best you can, while continue to support your candidates and client. It's a hard balance to strike, but I love seeing my team grow.
How has your career progressed since then?
I was a Division Manager for three years, during which time I had a baby. In January 2017, a year after returning to work, I was promoted to Senior Manager and selected to run our South Coast office. I had to relocate to Southampton and the company supported me in doing so. I love doing business development as well as the coaching aspect of my role.
What are the next steps for you?
My team and I have done a great job developing the Southampton office, I want to build on this success, grow the South Coast business to three hubs and give my team the careers they want and deserve, whilst seeing my team recognised on the UK and world stage for their recruitment successes.
What keeps you busy outside of work?
I play field hockey, I train once a week and I have a game every Saturday.
Interested in finding out more about working for Robert Half?
