AI in recruitment: why people, not technology, make the difference

In this episode of Talking Recruitment, REC Chief Executive Neil Carberry is joined by Katy Forsyth, Owner and Managing Director of Red Recruitment, Joe Taffurelli, Chief Executive of Ovio, and Antoine Poiron, Vice President Sales Europe at Pixid Group, to discuss what successful AI adoption really looks like in recruitment. Rather than asking what AI can do, the panel explores where it adds genuine value and where human judgement, empathy and expertise remain essential. From improving candidate journeys and automating repetitive tasks to preparing data, processes and people for change, they share practical lessons from implementing AI in recruitment businesses. The conversation also examines why the most successful firms won't be those that simply adopt the latest technology, but those that use it to strengthen relationships with candidates and clients, freeing recruiters to focus on the work only people can do. In this episode, you'll hear about: •How AI can improve recruiter productivity without replacing human expertise. •Why strong processes and high-quality data are essential before investing in AI. •The impact of AI on candidate experience and recruitment outcomes. •How recruiters can use AI to reduce administration and spend more time consulting clients and candidates. •Why empathy, judgement and relationship-building will become even more valuable as AI evolves. •Practical advice for recruitment businesses starting their AI journey. Host: •Neil Carberry, Chief Executive, REC Guests: •Katy Forsyth, Owner and Managing Director, Red Recruitment •Joe Taffurelli, Chief Executive, Ovio •Antoine Poiron, Vice President Sales Europe, Pixid Group