Lightning Travel Recruitment has appointed its first full-time employee, Ciarán Smyth (pictured, right).
Previously at International Luxury Travel Market (ILTM), Smyth takes on the role of ‘lightning conductor’ at the London-based recruitment consultancy.
His role is to spearhead the firm’s business development, establishing new relationships within the industry and bringing on clients who share the company’s values.
Smyth will work with co-founder and chief executive Chris King (pictured left), who established the firm in 2019 with a focus on changing the traditional recruitment market and supporting diversity and inclusion.
Lightning has recently partnered with like-minded organisations, including Certified Proud – an accreditation membership body that strives towards LGBTQ+ equality throughout businesses in Ireland – and Radical Recruit, which works with employers who are committed to diversity, equality and inclusion.
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Smyth said: “At the beginning of this year I left ILTM to challenge myself in a new industry but quickly realised that my heart was in travel.
“As the world slowly begins to reopen, I am excited about the future of the business.”
King is also from an events background, having previously worked at This is Beyond where he oversaw invite-only, travel trade events including Pure Life Experiences, Le Miami, and We are Africa.
He founded Lightning in 2019 after becoming “frustrated” with recruitment in luxury travel and lifestyle sectors.
“I saw an opportunity to change the traditional recruitment model in a way that would make a real difference to our industry,” he said.
“We pride ourselves on working exclusively with our clients and establishing long-lasting relationships with them as consultants.
“We take the time to get to know all our candidates personally, getting to know the person behind the CV.”
The team will hosting monthly diversity and inclusion events to educate new and existing clients as well as their own staff.
The firm also offers a free Lightning Lounge video chat service for candidates, which acts as a “safe space” to chat about personal or professional issues.