olivia huxstep | making work meaningful story.
Olivia Huxstep, strategic account director — Kent, UK, Randstad RiseSmart
a serendipitous switch
About two years ago, I wasn’t particularly looking to switch jobs, but destiny introduced me to Randstad RiseSmart, and I was instantly captivated by its story. I joined Randstad RiseSmart in April 2021, and I’m proud to say I’m happy with how my career is growing.
Like many of my colleagues in Randstad RiseSmart, we wear many different hats! However, the core of my role as a strategic account director is to assist in enterprise sales pitches, moving through to implementation and account management, and collaborating with my colleagues on legislation and cultural implications.
In my role, there is no such thing as a typical day. My work at Randstad RiseSmart is so dynamic! But for the most part, I juggle between delivering pitches to large prospect clients, running implementation meetings with existing clients, conducting HR orientations and performing daily check-ins on client requirements, always looking for opportunities to present further Randstad solutions!
a culture of collaboration
I love that I’m among a highly collaborative team taking on different roles and working together on multiple projects simultaneously. It always surprises me how often we’re underestimated by our competitors and prospects, but I’m proud of how our high win rate speaks for itself. I sincerely appreciate how I have the opportunity to learn as I grow with the team. As an example of how Randstad invests in their employees, I have just completed the first of four “destinations” on the Future Executive Program, which I was very honored to be nominated for. I had the chance to meet 25 colleagues from 8 countries, as we learn all things strategy.
The best thing about working at Randstad RiseSmart is, hands down, the people I work with. Whether it’s the operational teams, sales or the leadership team, everyone works hard to achieve the same goals with a shared passion and enthusiasm.
finding the right balance
Outside of work, I am a weightlifter and an amateur kick-boxer. When I’m not at the gym, you will find me walking my whippet, Darcy, or running around with my three girls (ages 10, 8 and 7) and my husband (who I just married in March 2023). I also love to cook and to challenge my friends in a game of cards.
I believe that making time for your hobbies and interests is always a work-in-progress task. I try to step outside of my house as often as possible throughout the day — thanks to Darcy — and other times, I hit the gym. However, nothing relaxes me more than winding down with a good book and a bubble bath!
Working at Randstad RiseSmart makes it more feasible for me to have a life outside of work. I can go watch the odd school netball match, then come back and make up for the time spent away from my desk.
The motto I’ve always stood by is to work smarter, not harder. I had learned early in my career that working for a ridiculous number of hours is, well, ridiculous and can backfire and lead to burnout. Fortunately, I work for a company where I’m empowered to be my best self — during the work day and beyond.