 We would like to welcome Sandra Jones to Datacenter People. Sandra has over 20 years of experience in the recruitment industry and brings a fresh, unique perspective to our team.
Question: Why Datacenter People and how have the first few weeks been?
Answer: I had two other job offers when the Datacenter People opportunity was presented to me. I knew within 10 minutes of meeting Steve Brown and Adam Paris (both of Datacenter People) that DCP was the right company for me. They made the difference. Their expertise in the Data Center industry, coupled with their passion and competitive nature suited me perfectly. I jumped at the chance to work for DCP! I thrive on a challenge and I am incredibly competitive, which makes for a professional yet fun working environment. The first few weeks have been productive and I’m enjoying every minute.
Question: Tell us about your background in recruiting? (Number of years of recruiting experience, specializations, what has kept you in the field etc.)?
Answer: I have extensive recruitment experience across the IT, Healthcare and Commercial sectors. I started
my career in recruitment in Sydney, Australia 23 years ago. I have worked successfully at all levels from Recruitment Consultant to National Account Manager, Team Leader and Regional Director. I enjoy every aspect of recruitment and every day is different. The best part of the job is the people—from candidates to clients. I like developing and nurturing relationships, problem-solving
and adding value wherever possible. I believe that the difference between the competition and me is me.
Question: Overall how have firms changed in strategies related to assessing skills, people and culture? Have you seen a shift in how candidates are evaluated today? (i.e., algorithms)
Answer: Companies are still interested in the skills and experience of people. However, there has been a noticeable shift towards solid cultural fit whether this is through the introduction of cultural directors or cognitive aptitude evaluation tests to secure long term employment versus high levels of staff turnover, which is costly to any business.
Question: What are the two or three most important personality traits required for senior-level managers to succeed in this age of digital transformation?
Answer: I believe the most important personality traits in this age of digital transformation are:
- The ability to be adaptable and flexible to allow fluidity in the workplace.
- Self-motivation and self-belief as digital transformation allow for more autonomy.
- Strong interpersonal skills are key as is the ability to listen. A considerate personality to nurture a team whether in an office, remotely or a combination of both.
Question: What challenges have you found, if any, while recruiting in the data center sector?
Answer: The data center sector has an under-resourced skill base due to its rapid growth over recent years. It consequently requires in-depth and wide-reaching research coupled with building trusting and loyal long-term relationships, to source and attract the very best candidates.
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The Portman Partners Executive Team 
