Talent Acquisition Manager (FTC)

At AKQA (part of WPP), we believe in the imaginative application of art and science to create beautiful ideas, products and services. We design digital experiences that are not only functional, but deeply considered,  where every interaction has purpose and every detail is intentional.

As a Talent Acquisition Manager at AKQA, you play a critical role in shaping the future of our studios by identifying, engaging and hiring exceptional talent across disciplines. You are not only responsible for delivering against hiring needs, but for elevating how we attract, assess and retain talent in an increasingly competitive and evolving landscape.

You will act as a trusted partner to senior stakeholders, bringing market insight, creative thinking and a proactive approach to recruitment, talent mapping and engagement. You will champion the AKQA brand, ensuring every interaction reflects our values and ambition, while continuously evolving our approach to talent in line with industry shifts, from emerging skillsets in AI and technology, to the changing expectations of creative and product talent.

This is a 6–9 month fixed-term contract, with a hybrid-working set-up. Requirement of 3 days per week onsite at our studio in Farringdon.

ROLE REQUIREMENTS

• Ensure AKQA hires and retains top talent across disciplines (UX, Creative, Delivery, Strategy, Client Services & Technology)
• Lead end-to-end hiring processes, balancing quality, pace and experience across both permanent and freelance roles
• Follow our recruitment process and expertly handle all administrative tasks related to recruitment in Greenhouse (ATS). This includes candidate communications, interview scheduling and offer preparations
• Build strong, value-added relationships with colleagues and hiring managers across all levels of seniority
• Identify and connect with with the best external talent and maintain an expert view of the marketplace
• Build and maintain proactive pipelines through direct sourcing, market mapping and network engagement
• Operate across the EMEA region, identifying talent across diverse markets; experience hiring within Europe and/or MENA is highly valued
• Leverage AI effectively to enhance hiring decisions, streamline processes, and unlock deeper talent insights without losing the human touch.
• Drive efficiency to reduce time-to-hire while maintaining an exceptional candidate and hiring manager experience
• Act as a positive ambassador for AKQA both internally and externally
• Promote the AKQA brand within the marketplace and wider talent communities
• Seek opportunities to reduce recruitment costs while maintaining service levels and calibre of hires
• Use data and insight to continuously improve recruitment practices, processes and tools (including Greenhouse)
• Champion diversity, equity and inclusion in all hiring activity
• Contribute to ad hoc talent projects, including employer branding, talent strategy and internal mobility

QUALIFICATIONS AND CHARACTERISTICS

• Strong experience hiring across creative, UX, Client Service or Technology roles within a fast-paced, high-quality environment
• Experience hiring across EMEA or working within international, multi-market environments is highly desirable
• A proactive and strategic mindset, with the ability to influence and challenge stakeholders constructively
• Deep curiosity and awareness of the evolving talent landscape, particularly within creative and innovation-led industries
• Excellent relationship-building skills, with the ability to engage and influence at all levels
• A passion for delivering exceptional candidate and stakeholder experiences
• Strong organisational skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities effectively
• Strong administration skills. Experience in using Greenhouse (ATS) is highly desirable
• A collaborative approach, with a willingness to share ideas and contribute to team success
• High standards of quality and attention to detail, aligned with AKQA’s commitment to craft