Recruit for the ceiling, not the floor!

If you are looking to shape your business so that it keeps its competitive edge, here are some valuable words of wisdom.

Managing Director & Founder at Exeter’s Oxygen Conservation, Rich Stockdale, has taken inspiration from some of the world’s most dynamic and disruptive businesses to shape the organisation's future talent programme.

He said: "The world is at a critical juncture. The need for conservation and regenerative practices has never been greater. To meet this need, we must not only steward the environment but also challenge how we do business.

"We’re currently developing our talent strategy, continuously evolving the way we attract, develop, and launch the future careers of the most talented people.

"We’d like to share a little of this thinking now, including some of our sources of inspiration."

The Most Inspiring Mission – Tesla, Scale Conservation

Inspiration: Tesla 

Tesla's mission is to accelerate the world's transition to sustainable energy and reinvent transportation. This audacious goal aligns with the urgent need for a more sustainable way of life.

Every member of our team is inspired by the idea that their work directly contributes to protecting and preserving our planet for future generations and we believe this is one of the most inspirational missions possible for the next generation of talented people. 

Our Culture is About Environment, Impact, & Adventure 

Inspiration: Patagonia 

Patagonia's corporate culture embodies environmental consciousness, integrity, justice, and a refusal to be bound by convention. They actively promote sustainability in everything they do – even so far as telling people to not buy their products. Patagonia employees are encouraged to participate in environmental activism and take paid time off to engage in grassroots efforts. 

Our culture is a unique blend of environmental consciousness, meaningful impact, and the adventure of making a difference. We provide a way to genuinely align your passions with your work in a way that makes a measurable impact on the world around you.

We Will Attract the Most Talented People 

Inspiration: Google

Google, known for innovative projects and global impact, has consistently drawn in the most talented individuals across various fields. The company's reputation for fostering a creative and inclusive work culture, combined with opportunities to work on ground-breaking projects, has made Google a magnet for top-tier talent and we are committed to becoming that same magnet for the environment sector.

We will only ever recruit people better than us in a meaningful way and are delighted to have continued to find increasingly incredible people. Four of our previous interns are now permanent members of the team and are thriving in a culture that challenges and supports their development.

Prioritise Early Career Talent 

Inspiration: The North Face

The North Face, a prominent player in the outdoor industry, is committed to prioritising early career talent. The company understands that fresh perspectives and a passion for the outdoors are crucial for innovation in their field. The North Face offers various programs, such as internships and entry-level positions, aimed at recruiting and developing young talent. 

We recognise that fresh perspectives, energy, and a disregard for the status quo are absolutely crucial for innovation. We also need those committed to lifelong professional development. We recruit for a person’s ceiling, not their floor, and care less about experience than we do potential. 

We Believe in Our Ability to Identify Talent and Coach

Inspiration: FC Barcelona's La Masia Academy

FC Barcelona's La Masia Academy is a shining example of believing in the ability to identify and coach talent to reach its full potential. The academy is famous for its ability to discover and nurture promising young footballers. This dedication to recognising and cultivating talent has solidified its reputation as a global powerhouse.

We love recruitment and back our ability to identify and develop the most talented people. We have an incredible Head of People and a team of exceptional experts in their fields. We will coach, mentor, and challenge everyone in a way that allows them to thrive.

We Will Compete for Talent

Inspiration: Vivobarefoot

Vivobarefoot, the trailblazing footwear company, beckons talented young individuals with a compelling vision and unwavering values. At its core, Vivobarefoot champions sustainability, minimalism, and foot health, igniting the passion of environmentally conscious and health-focused young minds. 

We will work incredibly hard to create roles that allow the most talented people to succeed in our overall system and company culture. When it comes to reward, and specifically financial reward, the same does not mean fair. We therefore believe in competing for that talent, offering reward packages that people are delighted to accept. 

We are committed to our mission and culture and dedicated to attracting the most talented early career professionals. If you're looking to make a real impact and thrive in an environment that's anything but ordinary, you've found your home with us! 

Oxygen Conservation was founded with the aim of tackling the climate crisis and biodiversity collapse by scaling conservation across the UK. For more information visit https://www.oxygenconservation.com/about-us/