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Back to Insights
Case Study
Insight

Candidate spotlight stories: Exceptional talent making a real difference

Three extraordinary hires, countless lives changed - see how passion-driven recruitment transforms charities for good.

At Charisma Charity Recruitment, every placement is a story of passion, purpose, and partnership. It’s about finding the people who fit a role, live and breathe the mission behind it.

In this edition, we share three inspiring journeys, from cultural heritage to faith communities, and impactful charity fundraising, each highlighting the heart behind our work.

A landmark role for the tank museum - Head of Curatorial Services

Partnering with The Tank Museum was a privilege from the start. They were creating something entirely new, their first-ever Head of Curatorial Services. A role that would strengthen the museum’s core and chart a bold course for its future.

This wasn’t just another hire. It was a chance to find someone with the rare ability to honour history, and inspire innovation simultaneously. We worked closely with the museum, diving deep into what this role really meant, beyond the job description and the CVs.

Over four focused weeks, our search combined targeted advertising, detailed database work, and national headhunting. We carefully shortlisted six outstanding candidates, each with their own unique strengths.

The chosen candidate showed immense commitment, relocating to Dorset to be regularly present on-site, something the role demanded and the museum valued greatly.

Just months into their new position, they are already bridging curatorial insight with commercial strategy, enriching the museum’s vision in ways both subtle and significant.

The candidate shared:

I just wanted to take the opportunity to thank you and everyone at Charisma for your help and support. I really don’t think I’d be in the role without you.

This placement is a testament to what thoughtful recruitment can achieve: not just filling a vacancy, but unlocking potential and propelling an organisation forward.

A new partnership with Latimer Congregational Church - Pioneer Minister

When Latimer Congregational Church in Stepney came to us, referred by a trusted charity partner, we knew this would be a special journey.

This role wasn’t simply about experience or qualifications; it carried a genuine occupational requirement. The successful candidate needed to be a practising Christian, truly embodying the church’s faith and mission.

To reach the right people, we created a heartfelt social media video that captured the church’s vision and the exciting opportunity for leadership as a Pioneer Minister.

The response was encouraging: 13 applications, 7 vetting interviews, and 5 candidates presented to the church trustees. Each progressed to face-to-face interviews.

The trustees told us:

You did a fantastic job for us. We loved all the people you have sent.

The appointed candidate reflected,

I had an exceptional experience with Charisma. The team was warm, supportive, and deeply knowledgeable. They understood not just my skills but also my values and goals. Communication was outstanding, timely, encouraging, and transparent. I felt genuinely cared for as a person. They championed my potential and made sure I was fully prepared.

With support from Nick Thomas and the Charisma team, this appointment was more than filling a vacancy, it was a calling fulfilled.

A recruitment journey with real heart – Southmead Hospital Charity

Recruitment rarely follows a neat, straight path, and it’s often in the twists and turns that partnerships are truly tested and proven.

Southmead Hospital Charity approached us seeking two fundraising roles:

  • Philanthropy & Partnerships Manager (maternity cover, part-time)
  • Individual Giving & Corporate Partnerships Manager (permanent, part-time)

After deep discussions, we launched our search across networks, adverts, and databases.

The first role came together quickly: a strong candidate identified early, vetted, and placed within a month.

The second role was more complex. Interest picked up when the charity adapted the contract to full-time. Just as things seemed settled, the chosen candidate withdrew. Instead of starting over, we revisited the shortlist, and a close runner-up stepped forward. After refining the job description, they accepted and settled in well.

This candidate wrote to us:

"Thank you for encouraging me through the recruitment process at Southmead Hospital Charity. I’m absolutely loving the role and it’s such a wonderful team. I really appreciate your support through the unusual process."

This journey reminded us that recruitment is about listening, adapting, and staying committed, even when the road isn’t straightforward.

Why Choose Charisma?

At Charisma Charity Recruitment, we believe every hire is a story worth telling. Our work is built on understanding mission-driven organisations and connecting them with the talented people who will drive their success.

From CEOs to emerging leaders, we combine professional expertise with genuine care, making sure each placement is more than a fit, it’s a future shaped.

If you want a recruitment partner who values integrity, insight, and heart, we’re here to help you write your next success story.

Author
Shivani Padayachee
Marketing Executive
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