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As Lisa prepares to celebrate a remarkable 25-year tenure with Oxford, she reflects on her journey, the company’s evolution, and the industry’s dynamic landscape. From her early days as an IT recruitment consultant in a small office in Cork to now leading a global team, Lisa’s story is a testament to her dedication, hard work, and the collaborative spirit that defines Oxford.
Q: How long have you been with Oxford?
A: In September, I will celebrate 25 years with Oxford.
Q: How has Oxford grown and changed since you started working here?
A: When I started at Oxford in our offices on Penrose Quay in Cork, I was hired as an IT recruitment consultant in a small office with seven other people, a phone, a fax machine, and a whole lot of determination.
While our US offices were already established, growing our European footprint was our priority.
Now, with over 900 employees and 35 offices worldwide, including Cork, Switzerland, Germany, the Netherlands, Belgium, and Spain, we are proud to provide our clients and consultants with such a wide range of staffing and solution offerings across global markets.
Q: How has the industry changed since Oxford started?
A: Our Industry is fast-paced and ever-changing. We constantly need to adapt, always be agile, and be ahead of the curve in our skill focus, partnerships, and execution with our clients and consultants.
While our core skills remain, we always expand and invest in emerging skills areas and markets and continue to grow our partnerships which now include SAP, AWS, Workday, and Salesforce.
Q: How do you feel you have contributed to Oxford’s success in your time here?
A: Building, expanding, and supporting our teams throughout Europe, we all work extremely hard, rowing in the same direction to grow our business. The result has provided wonderful opportunities for all our team, with continuous investment in Europe with new and expanded teams, new offices, a consulting services division, a team of practice directors, a strategic accounts program, a learning and development team, and top finance, marketing, legal, and IT professionals supporting us each day.
Q: Can you share a memorable moment you had at Oxford?
A: While we have many extremely special and beautiful events, what is most memorable and meaningful for me is when we are doing great work for our clients and consultants, and the team gets to enjoy the rewards of their success and hard work. This is what always brings me the most joy! I also love family events where we get to show thanks to all those who support us day to day as part of our extended Oxford family and of course President’s Club which is an exceptional time for all those who attend each year.
Q: What keeps you at Oxford?
A: For me, it has always been, and always will be, the exceptional people and teams across the globe with whom I am privileged to work every day.
I know I am surrounded and supported by the best in the business to ensure we deliver every day for our clients and consultants. I feel extremely grateful for that.
Q: How do you think Oxford’s core values contribute to its success as a business?
A: Our core values are a fundamental cornerstone of our business. We are always committed, and results driven. We hold ourselves accountable every day to ensure excellence and successful projects.
To stay ahead, we must have a vision, be forward thinkers, and be adaptable to our markets. Teamwork is vital for our success.
Q: What’s next for Oxford?
A: There is still so much to do; it feels like we are only getting started. We have so many exciting things to look forward to. We have just hired another 50 people in Europe and with our most recent acquisition announcement, there is always something exciting happening across the business.
While news stories of success and expansion will continue to happen globally at Oxford, our focus will always remain on our partnerships with our clients and consultants alike to offer best-in-class service and build and maintain strong relationships as trusted partners.
Q: What has been the most rewarding part for you as an Oxford employee?
A: We all get the opportunity to be the very best in our business, to lead by example, to be solution-driven in a fast-paced environment, and to spot opportunities in the business. To see our team succeed, expand, and grow with many lifelong friendships formed along the way has been the most rewarding.
Q: If you could give advice to yourself 25 years ago, what would it be?
A: Always believe in yourself and the power of hard work. Continue to be hungry to learn. Hold yourself accountable to the highest standards. Surround yourself with positive, motivated, driven, and dynamic teams. Bring your best each day.
Q: How has the business adapted to changes in technology and market trends?
A: Adaptability is a cornerstone of life at Oxford when it comes to technology and market trends.
Our teams constantly communicate with our clients and consultants to stay ahead, stay connected, and stay vital. We have teams of industry leaders, SMEs, Practice Directors, DSAs, and internal skills training to ensure we are proactive and prepared for technology and market trends.
Q: How have the relationships with clients/consultants evolved over the last 40 years?
A: Our service offerings have expanded greatly to meet the needs of our clients’ projects. We can tailor the best solution for each client, from individual consultants to project teams and consulting services across a wide skill area, making it easier for clients to choose Oxford as their number one provider.
We can offer our consultants many options as we work hard to continuously keep them working from project to project.
Q: What are your aspirations for the next 40 years?
A: Personally, to be happy, healthy and grateful with my family around me.
For Oxford to continue to strive, grow and exceed all the milestones we commit to each year.
Q: What message would you like to share with those who have supported Oxford over the years?
A: To everyone who has supported us throughout the years, a huge THANK YOU from Team Oxford.
Thank you for your continued support and for always trusting our team to deliver the best solutions and consultants for your projects.
To our wonderful consultants, a huge thank you for our continued partnership, commitment, and dedication, and we will continue to work extremely hard to ensure we assign you to the best clients and projects.
Q: How are you going to celebrate this milestone?
A: I am really looking forward to an office celebration with the entire Cork team this month.
Lisa Callanan’s 25-year journey with Oxford encapsulates growth, adaptability, and unwavering commitment. Her reflections highlight Oxford’s significant strides in expanding its global footprint, embracing technological advancements, and fostering strong client and consultant relationships. As Lisa looks to the future, her optimism and dedication remain steadfast, promising continued success and innovation for Oxford. We extend our heartfelt thanks to Lisa for sharing her story and to those who have supported Oxford throughout the years. Here’s to many more milestones and achievements together!