Welcome to the first edition of the Hydrogen Group newsletter!

In this edition we focus on who we are, Joel Forrester, EMEA region spotlight, Thrive 2025 and upcoming events.

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Let us introduce ourselves...

At Hydrogen Group, we believe great people build great businesses, and we're here to make that happen, every single day.

We’re a global recruitment partner with a mission: helping organisations across the world find the specialist talent they need to grow, evolve, adapt, and lead in their industries.

Our expert teams focus on some of the most dynamic, exciting and fast-paced sectors out there, including Life Sciences, Technology, Business Transformation, Legal, Energy, Finance, and Engineering. We’ve built deep expertise in each of these areas, so we’re not just filling jobs, we’re solving talent challenges and building long-term partnerships that really work, whether that is Project RPO, SOW, MSP or EVP and much more.

With offices across EMEA, APAC and the US, we combine global reach with local understanding to everything we do. Whether it’s placing a single expert or supporting a full-scale team build, we’re all about creating value, for our clients, for our candidates, and for each other.

If you’re looking for a recruitment partner who’s easy to work with, deeply knowledgeable, genuinely passionate about what we do, and always focused on the bigger picture, you’re in the right place.

Leadership Spotlight

Can you share a bit about your career journey and what led you to Hydrogen Group?

I started my career in the military, where I learned the true meaning of pressure, elite performance, how to build trust quickly, and leading with purpose. Those lessons have stayed with me throughout my time in business. Over the years, I’ve worked in both consultancy and staffing, leading client engagement and managing sales teams across complex global geographies at many hundreds of millions in value. I’ve always been drawn to roles where I can work closely with people, understand their goals, and help them achieve meaningful outcomes, whether that’s a client solving a challenge or a colleague trying to grow in their career. Joining Hydrogen Group & Argyll Scott felt like the right next step for me. It’s a business with real scale, ambition, and heart. I saw an opportunity to contribute to something bigger, bring a slightly different perspective, and help shape how we build long-term, meaningful relationships with our clients around the world.

How do you envision the future of recruitment, and what role do you see Hydrogen Group playing in it?

The future of recruitment is rooted in true partnership, where both sides are clear on what they bring to the table and committed to building something meaningful together. Clients don’t just need talent delivery, they need a partner who listens deeply, understands their unique way of working, and has the breadth of capability to solve real business challenges, from strategic scale-ups to niche workforce solutions. We focus on understanding specifically how each client wants to work, then shaping our engagement around that. With the flexibility to support a range of needs, we adapt our approach to deliver value in the way they define it. But strong partnerships go both ways, and when expectations are clear and commitment is mutual, that’s when lasting impact is created.

What sets Hydrogen Group apart from others in the industry, in your opinion?

It’s the mindset and the people, but more than that, it’s how those two forces combine to create something genuinely powerful. Hydrogen Group & Argyll Scott is truly connected on a global scale. Forward thinking, and agile, with a deep respect for our clients, colleagues & communities. We have an entrepreneurial spirit that encourages innovation, a diverse team that brings fresh perspectives, and a collaborative culture that unlocks potential across borders and specialisms. Many of our people have been with us for over 10 years, bringing deep expertise and continuity to our client relationships. We’re home to true subject matter experts, empowered by inspiring leadership from Hayley Still, our CEO, whose vision and authenticity sets the tone for what great looks like. We embrace change, stay ahead of the curve, and ebb & flow with our clients. What truly sets us apart however is our ability to adapt at pace without losing sight of what matters most, delivery, trust, and long-term value. We are incredibly passionate & ambitious about the future, but we’re also intentional in how we get there, and that balance is what makes us different. The journey truly matters.

What's the best piece of (career or personal) advice you've ever received, and why has it stuck with you?

A few things spring to mind, but the lessons that have always stayed with me.... sweat the small stuff, never be outworked, and remember people will forget what you say, but they’ll never forget how you made them feel. For me, hard work isn’t just about personal drive, it’s about setting a standards. Personally it’s how I show the people I care most about, my family, my team, those who believe in me, that I am truly committed. I aim to challenge myself daily to master everything that takes no skill. Preparing, being on time, positive attitude, accountability, challenging for best, being present and more.  People who have invested in my success over the years only ever asked me for this and they then provided me the platform to learn & succeed. I want to pay this back. Skill can always be taught... however those with the 'will', are the ones with character.

Outside of work, what do you enjoy doing to recharge and stay inspired?

For me, recharging is all about being present, and being the best version of myself for my beautiful daughter, Darcie. Whether it’s going for walks, climbing mountains, attempting ponytails and handstands, painting nails, swimming, camping, or just getting out into nature, I try to embrace all aspects of life to keep things balanced. We travel, we make memories, and those moments keep me grounded and remind me why I do what I do. It’s where I find energy, perspective, and inspiration. That said, my guilty pleasure? Married At First Sight, can’t beat a bit of chaos and drama to switch off!

Thrive 2025

Each year, the Thrive programme highlights top performers across all levels who demonstrate leadership, collaboration, resilience, and a positive impact on our culture. The winners are treated to an unforgettable trip, designed to thank them for their dedication and inspire continued excellence.

Barbados: Where success was celebrated and purpose came into focus.

Our Thrive 2025 winners from Hydrogen Group and Argyll Scott experienced more than just a well-earned break in the sun this month.

Yes, there were poolside views, rum punches, and the occasional “pipeline chat in flip-flops”…

We slowed down, and reconnected with who we are as a business. On the beach, in the pool, under the sun, bold ideas and honest conversations brought one thing into sharp focus.

It’s more than a statement. It’s the reason we exist, and this week reminded us that to truly unlock it, we must lead with culture and act with relentless client centricity.

Watch the highlights, and see what happens when high performance meets deep purpose.

Because when our people thrive, our whole business thrives.

EMEA Spotlight

The EMEA region remains a pivotal focus for us, delivering high-impact talent solutions across diverse sectors. With a robust presence in key markets, our teams combine deep local expertise with global reach to meet the evolving needs of our clients and candidates.

Leadership spotlight: Charlie Sell , COO - EMEA

In June 2024, we appointed Charlie Sell as the Chief Operating Officer (COO) for the EMEA region. Charlie brings a wealth of experience from startups to PLCs, with a strong background in international expansion, management buyouts, mergers and acquisitions. His expertise lies in people, process, and culture, aiming to deliver best-in-class services to our clients.

Charlie believes that great leadership involves providing a platform for those around you to thrive, fostering a growth mindset, ambition, and humility.

Sector specialisation across EMEA

Located in the heart of England's capital, our London office serves as the central engine for EMEA operations. From this strategic base, our specialist teams are focused on helping organisations thrive and professionals realise their full potential, we work across industries including:

• Technology & Data
• Life Sciences
• Legal & Compliance
• Business Transformation
• Financial Services
• Engineering & Infrastructure

Next month: US Spotlight featuring Michelle Miller , stay tuned!

London Legal Walk

On Tuesday 18 June, our colleagues will take to the streets of London to raise vital funds for theLondon Legal Support Trust, which helps keep free legal advice services running across London and the South East.

These services are a lifeline for people facing homelessness, poverty, and injustice.

Every pound raised helps ensure that those at risk can access the legal advice they need to achieve fair and secure outcomes.

👉Support our walkers and learn more about the cause here: https://lnkd.in/eZZKnCKj

Want to dive deeper?

Don’t miss our latest blogs, where our experts share insights, advice, and real-world perspectives from across the industries we serve. Whether it's AI in Workforce Management, how SOW solutions drive project success or skill-based hiring you can read everything you need to know here https://www.hydrogengroup.com/blog

Looking for your next career move?

We're proud to be partnering with some of the most exciting companies, check out the latest roles!

https://www.hydrogengroup.com/job-results#/

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