Meet the Team
The Smile Education Team
Click Each Team Member To Find Out More!
Katy Rees
What did you do before recruitment?
Holiday rep and travel agent
Why did you move into recruitment?
wanted a proper job in HR...
What is your favourite thing about recruitment and your role?
Working with people to achieve their potential.
When did you join Smile Education?
2009
What is your proudest achievement at Smile Education?
Completing the MBO and owning the business out right
What do like doing in your spare time?
running, spending time with family, volunteering at greyhounds trust, reading, jigsaws, walking, TV, wine, theatre, sheffield united.
Mark Childe
What did you do before recruitment?
Is there life before recruitment?
Senior Finance Manager at a global Distribution company.
Why did you move into recruitment?
It was a city centre based job and allowed me to be lead a Finance team as N01 and have key input into strategic direction.
What is your favourite thing about recruitment and your role?
Vibrancy, flexibility, energy and pace.
When did you join Smile Education?
2015
What is your proudest achievement at Smile Education?
Steering us through Covid, going through an MBO, increasing profits 3 fold
What do like doing in your spare time?
Fitness, the outdoors, family time
Adam Price
What did you do before recruitment?
I was a Snowboard Instructor and worked in a travel agents
Why did you move into recruitment?
I had transferable skills and knew the money earning potential was extremely good
What is your favourite thing about recruitment and your role?
The buzz of a deal, seeing all the hard work, blood sweat and tears payoff
When did you join Smile Education?
May 2021 (never looked back!)
What is your proudest achievement at Smile Education?
I have a number of achievements I am proud of but I think gaining a promotion to Head of Talent Acquisition on a personal level and on a professional level supporting the business in expanding out into new regions
What do like doing in your spare time?
Anything active, I play a lot of sport, mainly football and golf and love nothing more than being in the snowy mountains snowboarding or on a hot beach surfing; you will also find me in a nice country pub with the dog and a good old fashioned pint of British ale.
Joanna Cassin
What did you do before recruitment?
I've been working in marketing since 2016, but before joining Smile Education, I've worked for businesses across a range of industries, including education, charity, retail, finance and more!
Why did you move into recruitment?
I wanted a new challenge! Also because I'd previously worked with recruitment businesses over the years and enjoyed it.
What is your favourite thing about recruitment and your role?
I love that no two days are the same - marketing can get quite repetitive sometimes, but with everything going on at Smile, I've got the chance to get creative, rise to the challenge and try new things!
When did you join Smile Education?
I joined in April 2023.
What is your proudest achievement at Smile Education?
Increasing our Instagram reach by over 200%, our engagement by over 300%, and launching our TikTok page!
What do like doing in your spare time?
I love seeing live music, spending time with Barry (my cat), and have recently got into wild swimming.
Satpreet Singh
What did you do before recruitment?
I have always worked in the educational sector but something in the technical space was my forte.
Why did you move into recruitment?
I liked the concept of education in recruitment.
What is your favourite thing about recruitment and your role?
Enjoy working in an interesting role and Smile as a brand goes a long way.
When did you join Smile Education?
Joined in January 2020
What is your proudest achievement at Smile Education?
Building processes and procedures around payroll
What do like doing in your spare time?
Enjoy going on scenic drives and working out.
Louise Wilkinson
What did you do before recruitment?
The majority of my working career has been within recruitment, so I'm not sure!
What is your favourite thing about recruitment and your role?
Building relationships. I'm always on the phone to the schools or internal team members, I love to talk.
When did you join Smile Education?
May 2023
What do like doing in your spare time?
Being a nana to my 3.5 grandchildren and going away in my campervan!
TEAM ADMIN
Louise Horan
What did you do before recruitment?
I was a qualified Hair Stylist working and also a part-time Radio Host for a local community radio station.
Why did you move into recruitment?
I wanted to challenge myself and decided I had more to offer than being a hair stylist. I started my Business Administration apprenticeship at the age of 18 and was given a work experience placement in an engineering recruitment agency. I performed really well and was offered a permanent role, where I was able to complete the rest of my apprenticeship and stayed for an additional 2 years following this.
What is your favourite thing about recruitment and your role?
It has to be the people - The variety of people you get to meet, from all walks of life really adds to your character.
When did you join Smile Education?
I joined in June 2016
What is your proudest achievement at Smile Education?
Possibly winning the Special Achievement Award where I was taken to Dubai with Kash, Emma McD and Emma Sheldon. I've had many proud achievements, but this is one that just came into my head.
What do like doing in your spare time?
In my spare time I practice meditation, as I'm a qualified Meditation Practitioner. I also enjoy going to the gym, spending time with my fiancé and step-daughter doing family things and watching anime and taking photos of my tortoise, Sheldon.
Amrita Kaur Rai
What did you do before recruitment?
I used to be a primary school teacher!
Why did you move into recruitment?
I thought that it would be the first step into the corporate world, while still being relevant to education.
What is your favourite thing about recruitment and your role?
I love compliance and the satisfaction of being able to support candidates in their journey through the compliance checks means so much to me!
Being a Compliance Team Leader is so exciting as I get to lead a team of Compliance Administrators, which is something I have always wanted to progress to do.
When did you join Smile Education?
September 2023
What is your proudest achievement at Smile Education?
Being a Team Leader
What do like doing in your spare time?
I love travelling and spending time with friends and family. I love going on holidays.
I also love to keep fit and do bhangra dancing twice a week!
Nasriin Yassin
What did you do before recruitment?
I worked as an English tutor after graduating, as I have an English and TEFL (teaching English as a foreign language) degree. I also worked part time as an adult social care compliance administrator.
Why did you move into recruitment?
I had experience working in this field before starting at Smile- the job was pretty much the same but the only difference was the sector and compliance rules.
What is your favourite thing about recruitment and your role?
My favourite thing about my role is that i am able to ensure candidates are meeting all compliance requirements, which means that we are putting staff into schools who are correctly meeting safeguarding guidelines. The forefront of everything we do is compliance is the safeguarding of the children.
When did you join Smile Education?
In October 2019
What is your proudest achievement at Smile Education?
My proudest achievements are winning the Non-Sales award at the conference last year, and also winning the special achievement award at the 2020 conference.
What do like doing in your spare time?
I like reading, watching football (both on tv and live), binge watching tv shows and spending time with family.
Ashkar Shihab
What did you do before recruitment?
Worked as a branch deputy manager for a leading UK bookmakers . Finished Bachelors and Masters degree.
Why did you move into recruitment?
Had friends at that time who were working in recruitment so wanted to join the sector. Joined a medical recruitment agency in London back in 2012 and continued working in recruitment ever since.
What is your favourite thing about recruitment and your role?
The whole candidate journey really. You convert a CV into a candidate and then work on their compliance all the way till they start working. You play a vital role in getting some one a job and may be a huge change their life.
When did you join Smile Education?
2024.
What is your proudest achievement at Smile Education?
Getting a candidate cleared within 2 working days and only in my 3rd week in the business.
What do like doing in your spare time?
Visiting live music venues, travelling , eating out etc.
Demi - Rae Jackson
What did you do before recruitment?
I have always worked in the recruitment sector since I have left school.
Why did you move into recruitment?
I have always loved recruitment as I am a bubbly person who loves to meet and talk to new people. In recruitment, you do this all the time, so it was perfect for me!
What is your favourite thing about recruitment and your role?
Meeting new people, it's very rewarding to know you have helped someone to find their job and made them happy, which makes me happy.
When did you join Smile Education?
January 2023
What is your proudest achievement at Smile Education?
So far, my proudest moment was seeing on the stats that I had made a candidate live, it was a nice feeling to have my name on there for the first time.
What do like doing in your spare time?
In my spare time I like to travel, go to different places and try new food, spending time with my family, friends and my boyfriend.
Amber Mahmood
What did you do before recruitment?
Worked as an auditor and accountant
Why did you move into recruitment?
Wanted to try something new!
What is your favourite thing about recruitment and your role?
My favourite thing is getting to speak to a diverse range of people, as they'll always be a few interesting calls each day! And in terms of my role, it's the fulfilment that comes from the purpose of the role- ensuring the people that are going into schools are safe to be around children!
When did you join Smile Education?
Feb 2022
What is your proudest achievement at Smile Education?
Clearing 12 candidates for work in one week, as well as winning a few awards!
What do like doing in your spare time?
I love to shop and go out to eat with my family & friends. I also love doing something creative, which mainly tends to be baking!
Freya Wastell
What did you do before recruitment?
I was in full time education.
Why did you move into recruitment?
I moved into recruitment because I was always interested in it. Whilst you don't see the end result when candidates are in work, you are a part of their journey to their goals, and this is really rewarding for me.
What is your favourite thing about recruitment and your role?
My favourite thing about recruitment is about the people you meet and the relationships you can build and helping them reach their full potential. My favourite thing about my role is that every day is different and how you can have a different relationship with each candidate and customise their journey through admin in a different way each time and make it as smooth as possible.
When did you join Smile Education?
I joined Smile in the later end of March 2023
What is your proudest achievement at Smile Education?
So far my proudest achievement was hitting the 10 perfect file challenge, which was hard but felt great when it had been completed.
What do like doing in your spare time?
I like to do dance, hang out with friends and family and going to the theatre, concerts and also festivals.
Louie Dolphin
What did you do before recruitment?
Construction and bar tendering
Why did you move into recruitment?
The internal Progression and fixed days a week also the office type environment
What is your favourite thing about recruitment and your role?
The people I work with as we are all friendly and get on well
When did you join Smile Education?
March 2023
What is your proudest achievement at Smile Education?
Being able to do two roles both in compliance and finance
What do you like doing in your spare time?
Going to football games and going on nights out
TEAM PRIMARY
Emma McDermott
What did you do before recruitment?
I was running a pub in Ireland. Before that I was a travel agent
Why did you move into recruitment?
I always had sales type jobs and recruitment always appealed to me. I liked the idea of it being fast paced and the potential to earn good money
What is your favourite thing about recruitment and your role?
The people that I work with. I also love that no day is ever the same. Its a bumpy ride at times but it is so worth it
When did you join Smile Education?
I was working for another education agency and wasn't very happy there. I used to see Smile all over socials having a great time so I got in contact and the rest is history!
What is your proudest achievement at Smile Education?
Building a successful desk that is still growing and hitting my double million
What do like doing in your spare time?
Spending time with my family, friends and dog. Visiting new places. Drinking Wine
Hannah Massey
What did you do before recruitment?
I was an 18-30 rep in the summer and sold cars in the winter.
Why did you move into recruitment?
Smile found me as I didn't know what I wanted to do as a career.
What is your favourite thing about recruitment and your role?
The buzz of filling a booking!
When did you join Smile Education?
February 2015
What is your proudest achievement at Smile Education?
Becoming a double millionaire
What do like doing in your spare time?
Spending time with my sausage dogs
Ian Bambrick
What did you do before recruitment?
Car Sales
Why did you move into recruitment?
Work life balance and opportunity to grow own business.
What is your favourite thing about recruitment and your role?
Being busy, pairing the right candidate to the right client.
When did you join Smile Education?
August 2022
What is your proudest achievement at Smile Education?
Too soon to pick.
What do like doing in your spare time?
Spending time with family and walking the dogs.
Tisha Anowar
What did you do before recruitment?
Team Manager at M&S
Why did you move into recruitment?
Money is the motivation! & wanted to work on my own professional development whilst doing something I enjoy
What is your favourite thing about recruitment and your role?
Placing candidates in the right roles, knowing they're happy and looked after and in turn, making clients happy as their need is fulfilled. The role itself always keeps me busy, there's never a moment where there's nothing to do and there's always challenges along the way which keeps you busy!
When did you join Smile Education?
27th February 2023
What is your proudest achievement at Smile Education?
Making it this far already!
What do like doing in your spare time?
Playing Fortnite and Fall guys
Ellie Lomax
What did you do before recruitment?
I worked in early years/nurseries for 5 years before recruitment. I began as a nursery practitioner and then became a room leader for a toddlers class!
Why did you move into recruitment?
I moved into recruitment as I was ready for a change that was going to help me progress within my career. When I looked into recruitment, I saw how many progression opportunities there were for myself as well as the business. Education recruitment enables me to still support schools and nurseries in a different way and I love it!
What is your favourite thing about recruitment and your role?
Since beginning at Smile, I have loved working as a consultant and supporting people and school settings. Seeing candidates happy in a role they wanted is always a nice feeling! The teamwork within the role is also a favourite of mine, working together to hit new goals is the best!
When did you join Smile Education?
I joined Smile Education in October 2022.
What is your proudest achievement at Smile Education?
Since working at Smile, I feel there have been many small proud moments. However, most recently I have hit over £1000 in a week with more long term bookings!
What do like doing in your spare time?
In my spare time, I love walking and exploring new places with my family.
Charlotte Stevens
What did you do before recruitment?
I worked in retail management, for a famous chocolate retailer!
Why did you move into recruitment?
I had worked in retail for many years and had held management positions. I wanted a change to showcase my skills in a different environment but still remain people-focused so recruitment is the perfect fit!
What is your favourite thing about recruitment and your role?
I absolutely love talking to passionate candidates who make a difference to children's lives day in day out. It brightens my day and i enjoy being able to support them with finding roles perfect for their needs.
When did you join Smile Education?
I joined 20/06/2022
What is your proudest achievement at Smile Education?
I won the special achievement award twice since being with Smile.
What do like doing in your spare time?
I love nothing more than relaxing, binging a good tv series, with my cats.
Chelsea Dutton - Small
What did you do before recruitment?
University Student
Why did you move into recruitment?
I fell into recruitment by accident! After graduating from university I accepted a temp job within a recruitment company and found a passion for helping people - 10 years later and I'm still in recruitment!
What is your favourite thing about recruitment and your role?
Meeting new people and helping them on the next steps of their career journey.
When did you join Smile Education?
June 2019
What is your proudest achievement at Smile Education?
Being part of the growing SWAP programmes and building a strong relationship with a local college.
What do like doing in your spare time?
Online gaming
TEAM SECONDARY
Olivia Bakewell
What did you do before recruitment?
Before working in recruitment I studied Maths at University of Birmingham whilst working behind the bar at the student union!
Why did you move into recruitment?
Smile was my first trainee graduate role - I was attracted to recruitment because I wanted to work in a social environment where I was speaking to candidates and clients every day. I saw the job as a being a professional matchmaker, matching people with their perfect job - which sounded exciting!
What is your favourite thing about recruitment and your role?
I love the feeling you get from making a successful placement, and also seeing your team do well - even after 9 years the buzz is still the same!
When did you join Smile Education?
September 2013
What is your proudest achievement at Smile Education?
Still successfully servicing long standing clients of over 10 years!
What do like doing in your spare time?
Spending time with my friends & family!
Stella Dryhurst
What did you do before recruitment?
I worked in a call centre before I joined Smile Education!
Why did you move into recruitment?
I was particularly interested in recruitment for the earning potential, as well as the opportunities for progression
What is your favourite thing about recruitment and your role?
Since starting work in recruitment, no day is the same as the other, and things are constantly changing!
When did you join Smile Education?
I joined Smile Education November 2020
What is your proudest achievement at Smile Education?
Hitting 3 promotions!
What do like doing in your spare time?
I really enjoy travelling, exploring new places, having fun and looking after my feral dog
Megan Glynn
What did you do before recruitment?
I worked in Insurance
Why did you move into recruitment?
I think like a lot of people, I fell into recruitment and now can't imagine doing anything else.
What is your favourite thing about recruitment and your role?
Being able to talk to and meet new people! I love getting to know people, their hobbies, interests!
When did you join Smile Education?
October 2023
What is your proudest achievement at Smile Education?
Booking two interviews in my second week here :)
What do like doing in your spare time?
I love to bake, have picnics and go on day trips
Sam Lawless
What did you do before recruitment?
Before recruitment I was a supervisor for Royal Mail warehouse.
Why did you move into recruitment?
I moved into recruitment because I was offered an exciting new opportunity to expand my skills and work in an environment I had not experienced before.
What is your favourite thing about recruitment and your role?
My favourite thing about my role is that I recruit for the city I was born in, so it feels like I am making a huge difference to Coventry's educational system.
When did you join Smile Education?
I joined Smile Education because I noticed their incredible training programme, and after speaking to them I really liked what they stood for and I saw how many people they helped.
What is your proudest achievement at Smile Education?
My proudest achievement at Smile is booking my first interview with a candidate whilst being on my 3rd day of training.
What do like doing in your spare time?
In my spare time I like going to the gym.
Rafal Drag
What did you do before recruitment?
University/Warehouse Operative for Sainsburys and setting up Birmingham arena and NEC for events.
Why did you move into recruitment?
Wanted to find a career for the long term that I would enjoy and some friends recommended recruitment. I like the idea of being in control of my earnings.
What is your favourite thing about recruitment and your role?
Interacting with different people and helping andidates to find roles.
When did you join Smile Education?
January 2024
What is your proudest achievement at Smile Education?
Placing a music teacher at a school for a 12 month maternity cover role.
What do like doing in your spare time?
Listening to music and going to music events, playing rugby and I have recently started to get into DJing.
TEAM SEN/RESIDENTIAL
Nicola Howells
What did you do before recruitment?
Worked in Retail or 5 years then worked in Early Years Settings as a Nursery Nurse whilst training as management
Why did you move into recruitment?
Wanted a new challenge and the opportunity to earn more money and progress in my career
What is your favourite thing about recruitment and your role?
I enjoy the fast pace environment and the varied parts to my job It's never boring!
When did you join Smile Education?
June 2016
What is your proudest achievement at Smile Education?
Creating a successful early years desk and hitting 4 promotions
What do like doing in your spare time?
spend time with my family, swimming, spa days and weekends away
Jess Knight
What did you do before recruitment?
I completed an apprenticeship at a Domiciliary Care agency
Why did you move into recruitment?
I like helping people, so being able to help people find jobs they enjoy is very rewarding
What is your favourite thing about recruitment and your role?
I enjoy how fast paced it is and how every day is different
When did you join Smile Education?
August 2022
What is your proudest achievement at Smile Education?
Hitting my targets and reaching new personal bests.
What do like doing in your spare time?
I enjoy spending time with friends and family and going out for nice meals
Emily Day
What did you do before recruitment?
I worked as a Duty Manager at Bannatyne's whilst studying Psychology combined with Criminology at University
Why did you move into recruitment?
I have always liked working with people and have always worked in a customer facing role and recruiting especially in the educational sector allows me to help children of the younger generation get the same support and opportunities that we all received.
What is your favourite thing about recruitment and your role?
Fav thing about my role in particular is that it supports SEN individuals to get the correct support and allow them to still get the best out of their education.
When did you join Smile Education?
I joined Smile Feb 2024
What is your proudest achievement at Smile Education?
Yet to come as i am still so new but working hard everyday to get there!
What do like doing in your spare time?
GYM! - Absolutely destroy legs 3/4 times a week haha
TEAM EAST MIDLANDS
Patrick Jones
What did you do before recruitment?
I worked in various hotels and restaurants.
Why did you move into recruitment?
I actually kind of fell into it and haven't looked back since!
What is your favourite thing about recruitment and your role?
I enjoy helping newer consultants train and develop.
When did you join Smile Education?
September 2023
What is your proudest achievement at Smile Education?
Becoming a TikTok legend.
What do like doing in your spare time?
Cooking, listening to music and spending with my kids, mountain walking
Rosie Thornhill
What did you do before recruitment?
I moved into recruitment straight from university but I'd done work previously in hospitality and as PA for a young girl with cerebral palsy.
Why did you move into recruitment?
I wanted a new challenge and to do something different! From previous experience and my degree I have an interest in education and in particular special educational needs.
What is your favourite thing about recruitment and your role?
I've only been here a few weeks but I'm really enjoying learning all about the role and the industry. I'm excited to place my first candidate as I hear it gives you a real buzz!
When did you join Smile Education?
September 2023
What is your proudest achievement at Smile Education?
Too early to say!
What do like doing in your spare time?
Getting outside and seeing my friends and family.
Holly Barnes
What did you do before recruitment?
I was a cook in a pub kitchen!
Why did you move into recruitment?
After working mainly in hospitality after graduating, I was looking for the opportunity to grow in both a different industry and working environment. Also, especially in the education industry, assisting people in finding the right job can be incredibly fulfilling!
What is your favourite thing about recruitment and your role?
Whilst there is still rhythm to the work, each day differs massively which I really enjoy. Recruitment is a people's business, and I love how each day is full of interaction!
When did you join Smile Education?
October 2023
What is your proudest achievement at Smile Education?
As I'm still pretty new to Smile, my proudest achievement is simply settling into the team and a new style of working!
What do like doing in your spare time?
I enjoy drinking with friends and taking my dog on nice walks.
TEAM NORTH WEST
Kash Singh
What did you do before recruitment?
I was at University!
Why did you move into recruitment?
I wanted to be financially independent and take advantage of the opportunities there were to progress within my career.
What is your favourite thing about recruitment and your role?
I enjoy the pace of work, the energy and earning potential!
When did you join Smile Education?
I joined way back in 2015.
What is your proudest achievement at Smile Education?
I hit 500 days!
What do like doing in your spare time?
I enjoy hiking, running and spending time outdoors.
Tiffany Fitzpatrick
What did you do before recruitment?
I have only ever done recruitment! Before then, I was living the dream as a uni student.
Why did you move into recruitment?
To make a lot of money! I also knew you could progress relatively easily if you put the right amount of effort in.
What is your favourite thing about recruitment and your role?
The flexibilty and variety, no day is ever the same.
When did you join Smile Education?
March 2023
What is your proudest achievement at Smile Education?
The progress we’ve made so far, taking Smile to the North West! Very proud of what we have achieved to far and our future growth plans.
What do like doing in your spare time?
Travel and chasing the sun is my passion! Aside from that, anything fun.
Vicky Gittins
Vicky is currently on Maternity Leave!
TEAM SMILE LEADERSHIP
Matt Collins
What did you do before recruitment?
Teacher, Executive Headteacher, Executive Search Consultancy.
Why did you move into recruitment?
I always enjoyed the recruitment part of my role as an Exec Head.
What is your favourite thing about recruitment and your role?
Recruitment: Happy schools and happy candidates!
My role: Building really great relationships with schools and delivering.
When did you join Smile Education?
April 2023.
What is your proudest achievement at Smile Education?
Presenting to, and playing a part in winning two Trusts as MSP partners has been a brilliant team achievement.
What do like doing in your spare time?
Lots of sport, holidays, walking my dog, pub beer gardens.
