Change is a constant in today’s world of work, whether it’s adapting to new roles, new environments, or entirely new ways of working. For many professionals in recruitment, that change can come in the form of transitioning from the fast-paced world of agency recruiting to the more strategic, stakeholder-driven environment of in-house talent acquisition.
In this episode of Breaking the Chain, host Nathaniel Chapman sits down with Lea Giorgi, a talent acquisition professional whose career journey reflects exactly what it means to navigate change. From working in recruitment agencies across different markets to transitioning into an in-house role, Leah shares insights from both sides of the hiring process.
Originally from France, Leah’s career has also taken her across international teams and multicultural environments, where adapting to new cultures, communication styles, and even working in a second language became part of her professional growth. These experiences have shaped how she approaches recruitment, collaboration, and relationship-building in a global talent landscape.
Together, Nathaniel and Lea explore the realities of agency versus in-house recruitment, the identity shift that can come with moving between the two, and how recruiters can build stronger partnerships to support better hiring outcomes.
Key Takeaways from This Episode
- Why many recruiters begin their careers in agencies, and how the fast-paced environment builds resilience, negotiation skills, and market knowledge.
- The transition from agency to in-house recruitment, and how the pressures, expectations, and measures of success change across both environments.
- What working in international teams teaches recruiters, from navigating cultural differences to building confidence communicating in a second language.
- Why recruitment is ultimately about relationships, with placements sometimes shaping careers and partnerships, years down the line.
- How agency and in-house recruiters can collaborate more effectively, building trust through transparency, communication, and market insight.
If you’ve ever wondered what it takes to navigate the shift from agency recruitment to an in-house role or how recruiters adapt to new environments, cultures, and expectations along the way, this episode offers a thoughtful and honest look at the journey.
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About Impel Talent
At Impel Talent, we partner with forward-thinking organisations to develop confident, capable leaders who drive performance and sustainable growth. Through practical coaching, structured development programmes, and insight-driven learning experiences, we equip individuals and teams to navigate change, strengthen self-leadership, and build cultures rooted in clarity and accountability.
