Finding Your Next Role in Energy: What Executive Headhunters Really Look For
Whether you're actively looking for your next role, thinking about a career move, or simply wanting to understand how senior hiring really works, this episode is packed with practical advice. Many people spend hours applying for jobs online without knowing what actually happens behind the scenes. In this conversation, I speak with executive headhunter Andy Jenkins about how recruiters search for senior talent, how AI is changing recruitment, and what candidates can do to improve their chances of standing out.
Andy shares his perspective after almost three decades in executive search, including his experience recruiting senior leaders across the global energy sector. We discuss everything from LinkedIn profiles and CVs to networking, graduate careers and why human connections still matter in an increasingly AI-driven hiring process.
🎯 Three key takeaways
🔹 Executive recruitment is different from traditional recruitment.
Many senior opportunities are never openly advertised. Headhunters often approach people directly, making industry relationships and visibility increasingly important.
🔹 AI is changing recruitment, but it hasn't replaced people.
Recruiters are using AI to save time, while candidates are using it to tailor applications. Despite this, genuine conversations and personal networking remain some of the strongest ways to build opportunities.
🔹 The energy sector continues to create opportunities in new areas.
From carbon capture to data centres and the wider energy transition, engineers and experienced professionals have transferable skills that can open doors across multiple industries.
✅ Three actionable takeaways
💡 Review your LinkedIn profile and make sure it clearly reflects your specialist experience, achievements and the type of opportunities you want recruiters to find you for.
💡 Tailor your CV for each application rather than relying on one generic version. Highlight the experience that directly matches the role you're applying for.
💡 Don't rely solely on online applications. Reach out to hiring managers, attend industry events, and continue building your professional network through real conversations.
