We met with Nathan O’Connell, Founder of O’Connell Search Partners, to discuss building a specialist international recruitment business and the importance of culture, growth and client relationships.
What is the history of O’Connell Search Partners?
O’Connell Search Partners is a recruitment business that operates across London, New York and Texas. While Liverpool serves as our headquarters, we travel to London on a weekly basis and regularly visit the United States every four to six weeks to support clients and candidates across our markets. The business has been built on a foundation of niche, highly focused relationships with both clients and candidates. We believe that taking a specialist approach allows us to provide a better service and build long-term partnerships that support the growth of our clients, candidates and ultimately our own business. Our business has grown from a single employee to a team of five and has already outgrown its first office, moving into a new space to support continued growth. Collaboration and development are central to the way we operate. We have built a diverse workforce from a demographic perspective, which we believe is important in bringing fresh ideas, different viewpoints and new ways of thinking into the business. As we continue to grow, maintaining that culture remains a key focus.
What is the best part about running a business?
For me, the best thing about running a business is being able to create a high-performing culture where people genuinely enjoy coming to work. Recruitment can be a demanding industry, with long hours, plenty of highs and lows and periods that can be stressful. Because of that, creating a positive environment for the team has always been important to me. One of the most rewarding aspects has been building a business that is financially rewarding for staff while also providing an open and flexible working environment. We give people the freedom to choose working patterns that suit them while still maintaining high standards and delivering results. Seeing people develop, enjoy their work and contribute to the success of the business has been incredibly rewarding. Building a culture where people feel supported and motivated is something I take a great deal of pride in.
What is your day-to-day role in the business?
My day-to-day role is very varied and involves working closely with both clients and candidates across the UK and the US. A large part of my time is spent managing the recruitment process from start to finish. This includes taking job briefs from clients, identifying and approaching new candidates, managing recruitment campaigns and helping to close deals. I remain involved in all aspects of recruitment and enjoy staying close to both the client and candidate side of the business. Alongside this, I spend a lot of time supporting the wider team. We hold daily team meetings to discuss priorities, review progress and ensure everyone is aligned on their objectives. Training and development are also important parts of my role. I regularly conduct one-to-one training sessions with team members to support their growth and ensure they continue to improve their skills and performance. As a growing business, there are always new challenges and opportunities to manage, which means no two days are ever the same.
What is the biggest lesson you have learnt running a business?
The biggest lesson I have learned during the growth of the business is the importance of ensuring that the day-to-day work does not become overshadowed by the operational side of running a company. As a business owner, there are always operational tasks that require attention. Whether it’s processes, systems, administration or planning for future growth, there is no shortage of work happening behind the scenes. However, I have learned that it is equally important to remain focused on the day-to-day activity that generates revenue for the business. The recruitment work we do every day is what funds the business, while the operational side is what helps keep it running smoothly. Making sure I dedicate time to both areas has been one of the most valuable lessons I’ve learned. Finding that balance allows the business to continue growing while ensuring the foundations remain strong.
What services do you get from JDA and how do these benefit you?
We use JDA for everything accounting-related apart from bookkeeping. As someone who does not come from an accounting background, having access to experienced professionals who can provide advice and guidance has been incredibly valuable. They support us across a range of areas, including payroll, VAT returns and year-end accounts. Having that support allows me to focus on running and growing the business without worrying about the financial and compliance aspects of the company. The team at JDA are always available to provide guidance when needed and have helped us navigate the challenges that come with running and growing a business.
What do you like to do outside of work?
Outside of work, I enjoy travelling, running and playing padel. Staying active is important to me and I spend a lot of my spare time training. At the moment, I am preparing for an upcoming ultramarathon, which has become a major focus outside of work. The training requires a great deal of commitment and discipline, but it’s something I enjoy and find extremely rewarding. Alongside sport and travel, spending time with family is hugely important to me. I enjoy spending time with my wife, nieces and nephews whenever possible and those moments provide a welcome balance to the demands of running a business.