AI Isn’t Replacing Hiring  It’s Changing What You Recruit

AI Isn’t Replacing Hiring  It’s Changing What You Recruit

Apr 27, 2026 | Hiring Resources, Tips

There’s a growing narrative that AI will reduce the need for recruiting. From where I sit as an IT recruiter, that’s not what’s happening.

AI is not removing the need for talent  it’s reshaping it.

As organisations move through phases of AI adoption from AI assisted work to human agent collaboration  one thing becomes clear: someone still needs to design, build, manage, and optimise these systems.

We’re already seeing demand shift toward:

  • AI engineers and data specialists
  • Cloud and infrastructure experts
  • Cyber security professionals
  • Integration and automation specialists

The reality is simple: AI doesn’t run itself.

Employers who assume AI will reduce recruiting risk falling behind. Those who recognise that AI requires more specialised, adaptable talent will be the ones who stay competitive.

James: CAND141877

Apr 21, 2026 | Candidates

Lead Desktop Support / Infrastructure Engineer Ref CN00141877

Permanent £43k

A highly experienced and motivated Lead Desktop Support Engineer with over 20 years of delivering enterprise-level IT support, infrastructure deployment, and end-user solutions across complex environments. Demonstrates a strong track record of leading desktop transformation projects, improving operational efficiency, reducing downtime, and enhancing overall system performance within fast-paced, high-demand organisations.

Brings deep technical expertise across Microsoft technologies, including Windows Server, Active Directory, Office 365, Azure, Intune, and SCCM, combined with solid networking knowledge (TCP/IP, DNS, LAN/WAN) and virtualisation exposure (VMware). Highly skilled in device build, imaging, migration, and lifecycle management, with extensive experience supporting large-scale Windows 10/11 rollouts and enterprise hardware deployments.

Proven ability to lead and mentor teams, coordinate large deployment programmes, and manage high-volume workloads (e.g. processing 100+ device builds per day) while maintaining accuracy and strong documentation standards. Adept at troubleshooting complex hardware, software, and network issues across Windows, Linux, and mobile platforms, ensuring minimal disruption to business operations.

Experienced in working within ITIL-aligned environments using tools such as ServiceNow, with a strong focus on incident, change, and problem management. Combines hands-on technical delivery with strong stakeholder engagement skills, supporting senior executives and collaborating effectively with cross-functional IT teams and third-party vendors.

Recognised for strong communication, adaptability, and a proactive approach to problem-solving, with the ability to perform under pressure and quickly adopt new technologies. Offers a well-rounded understanding of end-user computing, infrastructure, and security, making them a valuable asset in both operational support and project-driven environments.

Key Strengths:

  • Desktop Support Leadership & End-User Computing
  • Windows 10/11 Deployment, Imaging & Migration (SCCM, Intune)
  • Microsoft Technologies (Active Directory, Office 365, Azure)
  • Infrastructure Support (Servers, Networking, VPN, DNS)
  • ITIL Service Management & Ticketing Systems (ServiceNow)
  • Hardware & Software Troubleshooting (Multi-Platform)
  • Security & Patch Management
  • Team Leadership, Mentoring & Stakeholder Support

 

Candidate Summary – Service Desk / IAM Specialist (Team Lead Potential) Ref CN 00183975

South Seat London, Contract £370 per day

A high-performing Service Desk professional with proven experience delivering 1st and 2nd Line support within fast-paced, highly regulated financial services environments. Currently operating within a leading global banking setting, providing critical support to trading-floor and front-office users where speed, precision, and security are essential to business continuity.

Demonstrates strong technical expertise across desktop support, identity and access management (IAM), and endpoint security, with a consistent track record of resolving over 90% of incidents within SLA. Experienced in managing user lifecycle processes (joiners, movers, leavers), administering Active Directory and Azure AD (Entra ID), and enforcing robust access controls including MFA and RBAC in line with security and compliance requirements.

Recognised for a proactive and leadership-oriented mindset, regularly identifying recurring issues, driving process improvements, and acting as a key escalation point for complex incidents. Combines hands-on technical capability with a structured, ITIL-aligned approach to incident, request, and problem management, ensuring high levels of service delivery and user satisfaction.

Brings excellent communication and stakeholder management skills, with experience supporting VIP and front-office users in high-pressure, time-critical environments. Adept at collaborating with infrastructure, cybersecurity, and application teams to resolve issues efficiently and maintain system availability.

In addition to technical expertise, offers strong leadership qualities developed through both professional experience and a background in elite-level sport, demonstrating discipline, teamwork, and the ability to perform under pressure. Now seeking to step into a Service Desk Team Lead or Desktop Support Lead role, with a focus on mentoring teams, enhancing service performance, and driving continuous improvement across IT support operations.

Key Strengths:

  • Service Desk Operations & Team Leadership
  • Identity & Access Management (Active Directory, Azure AD, RBAC, MFA)
  • ITIL-Aligned Incident, Request & Problem Management
  • Desktop Support (Windows, macOS, Microsoft 365, VPN)
  • Endpoint Security & Device Compliance
  • SLA/KPI Management & Continuous Improvement
  • Stakeholder & VIP User Support
  • Tools: ServiceNow, Jira, Intune, SCCM, Citrix, Bloomberg, Cisco Jabber

Should They Stay or Should They Go? The Post-COVID Stagnation Trap

Apr 14, 2026 | IT

“Should I stay or should I go now? If I go, there will be trouble… If I stay, it will be double.” The Clash may have been singing about a relationship, but in 2026, it’s the theme song for thousands of IT & Tech professionals.

The Narrative: Over the last few years, many long-term employees have felt “handcuffed” to their roles. Whether it’s the security of a legacy contract or the hybrid/remote setups that new employers are hesitant to match, there is a massive wave of “pent-up frustration.”

The Stagnation Factor: Many are desperate for change. They feel the “same shit, different day” syndrome—stagnation, few new projects, and no path forward. Some are even looking to move for similar or lower salaries just to feel a spark again.

The Employer’s Opportunity: When that resignation finally lands, don’t immediately reach for the counter-offer. Ask yourself:

  • Is this a “Golden Opportunity”? You could replace them with a “New Broom”—someone motivated to prove themselves, modernize, and embrace AI and Automation.

  • Are they too comfortable? Can you really reignite the flame in someone who is just holding onto the status quo?

The Result: Yes, I’m biased—I’m a recruiter. But replacing a stagnant manager with a fresh, motivated hire including our fee could save you thousands in lost productivity and reignite your internal culture.