Celebrating 10 years with Luke Cunliffe

Looking back over your 10 years at Thor, what's one major change you've witnessed that has significantly impacted your role and how you approach your work? 

Technology! I spent pretty much 8 of my 10 years at Thor as a recruiter, but now I’m the Data and Technology Manager, so that speaks for itself. But even whilst recruiting, the progression we saw with our CRM system, as well as LinkedIn, and all the other innovative tech offerings have massively changed the landscape. Technology develops so quickly and if you factor in GDPR, AI, and automation we can be sure the landscape will continue to change at a rate of knots. My approach is therefore to be in a constant state of readiness for change because we do not want to be left behind now do we?!?!

Having initially worked in sales, how did your experience and skills translate to your current role as a Data and Technology Manager? What were some of the biggest adjustments you had to make?

Even whilst recruiting, I always had a penchant for business efficiency through proficient use of systems, so I was heavily involved with our first CRM system, as well as the migration onto our current CRM system. These skills as well as my interest in the area leant itself very nicely to what I do now. I also have a very good understanding of recruitment which I can leverage when speaking with our sales teams, as well as current and prospective suppliers. Not being focused on metrics daily felt quite alien for about 3 months, but after that point, I was fully adjusted to the new way of working.

Can you describe a specific challenge you faced in your career here, and how you overcame it? What did you learn from the experience?

I didn’t have to wait very long for my first challenge. Two months after joining the wonderful (and apparently lucrative) world of oil and gas the oil price came tumbling down. We then had to diversify and find new markets, and then build them up. It’s a challenge I have fond memories of because it helped shape the business we are now. It was very much a collective effort to overcome that oil recession. We stayed tight as a core unit and supported each other. We all had a shared vision that we could build an amazing recruitment business, a vision that we continue to drive towards today.

I think the main learning is that with the right attitude and the right group of people anything is possible, and any challenges no matter how big can be overcome.

What keeps you motivated and engaged in your work, even after a decade with the company?

My motivation comes from my drive and my vision to provide the best possible technology environment for our sales heads to thrive. I also put a lot of emphasis on anything I have ownership of, so I want my function to be the best it can be. I enjoy developing people and imparting knowledge, promoting a growth mindset throughout the business. And last but by no means least, it’s a fantastic group of people at Thor that are constantly striving for excellence. My direct team in the back office is a bunch of superstars and the front office teams are also brilliant.

What are some of the most valuable things you've learned during your time here, both professionally and personally? 

• The importance of relationships (professional and personal).

• Leadership skills.

• Sometimes things don’t go your way, but stay focused on your goals, work hard, believe in yourself, and stay positive.

• Business never stands still.

• Expect the unexpected.

• Data integrity is more important than drinking water.

• Cycling clears the head better than most things.

• Vehicles will sometimes turn left without indicating, or without checking for cyclists.

• Don’t give up.

• Yoga.

• Wear sunscreen.

As you celebrate this milestone, what are you most excited about for the future of the company and your role within it?

I get the most excitement from the vision and the cultural shift towards technology adoption that is happening. When that is fully embedded and everyone here is reaping the rewards, we will be absolutely flying as individuals and as a collective. I’m also really excited to answer my 15th-anniversary questionnaire and refer back to this because I guarantee that technology adoption will underpin high performance. But don’t worry, I won’t say I told you so.

Interested in forging a long-lasting career?

Whether you are passionate about recruitment, business development, leadership or even technology adoption - we are here to support your career needs. With the company looking to continue our global expansion, now is the perfect time for you to join us.

Discover how you can start your Thor career today - https://www.thor-companies.com/about/careers