I recently enjoyed catching up with our Business Development Manager, Sam Gedye, who specialises in recruitment advertising in the higher education sector. Fresh from the UKUPC 2023, Sam shared his experience at the conference, a significant milestone for us, given our recent recognition of being 1st place on the NERARS framework. Here’s a glimpse into our conversation:

 

Can you tell us about the UKUPC Conference?

 

Sam: The UKUPC Conference is a one-of-a-kind event, exclusively focusing on procurement in the higher education sector. It offers a rich line-up of professional development sessions and insights, with an exhibition featuring over 70 framework suppliers. It’s a fantastic platform to connect with attendees through the conference CPD programme and social activities.

 

How was the overall experience at the event?

 

Sam: The event was incredibly professional. The UKUPC team really looked after their attendees and exhibitors. The food throughout both days was great, and there was a fantastic line-up of speakers and topics for the delegates. It was really nice to be recognised as a key supplier on a HE framework, especially securing the 1st place on the NERARS framework. You can learn more about it here.

 

Can you share some highlights from the interactions you had at the conference?

 

Sam: Absolutely, the conference facilitated some excellent conversations with procurement contacts and UAG board members who are monitoring the progress of Webrecruit as we deliver on some of the early contract wins. We are in talks with London Metropolitan University and the University of Exeter, and it was good to have face-to-face conversations with their representatives. It was also great reconnecting with our existing clients like the University of Bath, JISC, Huddersfield, and Ulster University.

 

What about the awards evening?

 

Sam: The awards evening, hosted by Mark Tyler, was brilliant. It was great to witness some of the procurement initiatives from universities and suppliers that are adding real value to supply chains. I had the opportunity to chat with procurement contacts from the University of Birmingham and Leeds Beckett University at my table, they shared some really interesting insights about the world of procurement which is helpful as we engage more frequently with procurement.

 

Can you share a quote about your experience at the event?

 

Sam: I had a blast meeting with the universities that are currently using our services via the NERARS Framework! It was amazing to hear directly from them how we’re supporting their recruitment activities. Plus, I got to chat with some universities who were interested in learning more about what we do. We even had a few awesome delegates come over to our stand to congratulate us on our placement as first on the NERARS framework. We’ve attended events like this before, but this time around, we felt truly recognised for the leading recruitment solutions we provide to the higher education sector.

 

Looking ahead, what are your thoughts post-conference?

 

Sam: I am filled with a sense of pride and anticipation. The future looks bright, and we are excited to continue being a part of this vibrant and innovative sector. The connections made at UKUPC 2023 are promising, and we look forward to fostering these relationships further.

 

Thank you, Sam, for sharing your experiences with us. It indeed sounds like the UKUPC 2023 was a milestone event for Webrecruit, and we are eager to see where these new opportunities will lead us.