2025 at P.J. Recruitment: A Year of Learning and Leadership

As 2025 comes to a close, we’ve been taking a moment to pause — really pause — and reflect on what we’ve learned, individually and as a team this year. You often don’t talk about learnings (team) at the end of each year, nor carve out time to reflect, but I think as a team we move into Christmas feeling hopeful that 2026 will be a little less bumpy.

Because care sector recruitment is what it is, this year patience has been tested, tolerance has had its limits, calm has been something we crave and because of that, like most people this time of the year, we’re very much looking forward to a holiday.

We profess to be ‘Transforming the Face of Care, One Leader at a Time’ and that’s it. We’ve done it for another year, placing over 40 leaders and managers into the Care sector.

There are lessons learned in every role we recruit. Enjoy reading about our individual learnings and you’ll feel the vibe of what it feels like as a team when you put them all together.

2025 Reflections:

PJ:

Nurturing relationships is something to cherish — the genuine relationships endure. In a sector built on and for people, the real magic sits in the long game of showing up honestly, consistently, and with intention.
Sometimes you don’t need a long shortlist — you just need the one. The right person can change the trajectory of an organisation, a community, and a board’s future. Quality over quantity. When you are presented with ‘the one’ you only need one!
You can offer thoughtful advice and experienced counsel, but people will ultimately choose their own path. Acceptance of this has kept my work anchored, respectful, and human. 🌱
Aged care is hard yakka — tougher than most outside the sector will ever understand. But it’s where the most extraordinary leadership, grit, and heart live.
What we do in executive search for the care sector is a privilege. Every appointment shapes care outcomes, and changes the face of care. It can also change people’s lives at that point in time.
This year reaffirmed that impact isn’t always loud – it’s built on brand and reputation.

Ely:

Curiosity helps more than assumptions.
My best placements came from digging deeper, not taking things at face value.
Stay grateful for the people who choose to do this work with heart. They’re the ones who keep the hard days in perspective.
Small, consistent actions build trust over time.
Stepping outside your comfort zone is still the best teacher.
When doubt hits, pause and go back to the values and purpose that guide you.

Ness:

Supporting a team you believe in makes even the busiest days feel purposeful.
I’ve learned that organisation isn’t just paperwork — it’s creating calm, structure and clarity so others can lead with confidence.
I’ve learned the real value of teamwork — the way everyone carried me and supported each other while I was off caring for my son reminded me what a special team this is.
I’ve learned that showing up with kindness matters. Even small interactions shape how people feel walking into their day.
I’ve learned that being adaptable isn’t optional — plans change, needs shift, and staying steady in the middle of it all is part of the heartbeat of admin.
I’ve learned that you can be strong and still need help — and that asking for support doesn’t lessen your contribution; it strengthens the team.
I’ve learned that gratitude grows in tough seasons — and this year has taught me to be deeply grateful for a workplace that genuinely cares.

Final Reflection:

2025 reminded us why this work matters — and why the care sector deserves leaders who show up with integrity, resilience, and heart. Thank you to everyone who trusted us this year.

If 2026 is a year where leadership matters more than ever for your organisation, we’d love to talk in January. Wishing you a safe, restful Christmas and all the best for the New Year.

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