Our Recruitment Team
If you are interested in getting to know the Holt Automotive recruitment team, you’ve certainly come to the right place. Below you will find information about our management team and more on our specialist consultants and their divisions. Take a look…
Stuart Holt
Founder
Stuart Holt
Founder
“I always wanted to work somewhere that was professional and hardworking, but where they still emphasised having fun at work, I couldn’t find one, so I built one. I’m happy to say I genuinely think everyone who works for this company enjoys coming to work, and for me, that is what it is all about.
I still like to keep my hand in on the actual recruitment side of the business, the idea is to lead from the front, but I must admit the team are starting to beat me to the top of the league table.
I love to travel and having spent five years living and travelling in some very random places, from a Lion Sanctuary in Zimbabwe to the Snowy Mountains of New Zealand, I like to think I have so far made the most of life”.
Divisions: Senior Management
Karen Wheeler
Head of Automotive
Karen Wheeler
Head of Automotive
“My career in recruitment started specialising in the Hospitality sector where I worked for 20 years.
I joined Holt in 2021 and I now manage the Automotive team which includes Commercial and Dealership sector. Here I’m responsible for team engagement and performance as well as maintaining great relationships with our clients.
Outside of work life is busy! I have two teenage girls and a dog. I love watching the sunrise on the beach with my dog. I also love to travel.
There’s nothing quite like recruitment; the relationships you build with clients, candidates and colleagues and the feeling you get from positive outcomes. Holt is a great place to build a career and achieve your goals, where you get rewarded for your work and your success.”
Divisions: Senior Management
Rebecca Bamford
Operations Manager
Rebecca Bamford
Operations Manager
“My career started in Law where I worked, studied and progressed however I couldn’t find the love for it so I moved into practice management for law firms managing their compliance, HR and office management. From there I stepped into a more Operations focused role so headed back to school to gain further qualifications in HR to give me the ability to oversee all aspects of Operations from office management, compliance, legal and HR.
The team at Holt are lively, fun and hard working and no two days are ever the same. Everyone genuinely enjoys coming to work.
Outside of work I love cooking and experimenting with new recipes and cuisines. Also spending time with my Fiancé and friends exploring new and familiar places – followed by the pub, of course!”
Divisions: Senior Management
Richard Haigh
Principal Consultant
Richard Haigh
Principal Consultant
“I’ve been successfully recruiting in the Automotive Industry since 2007, currently running the Bodyshop North Division here at Holt Automotive Recruitment.
I aid our clients in the recruitment of permanent positions, fixed-term contract roles, as well as short and long-term temporary staff to cover holidays, long term illness or just to cope with an increase in demand. I consider myself very focused, driven and a real team player. If someone has a problem I am generally the one they go to. I truly care about Holt Recruitment as a company and all the clients that I have the pleasure of working with.
When I am not at Holt Automotive Recruitment (which is rare) I will be found either on the golf course or in the kitchen!”
Divisions: Bodyshop & Accident Repair
Piam Pishgoo
Principal Consultant
Piam Pishgoo
Principal Consultant
“I have been in recruitment for the better part of 20 years, 16+ of which I’ve specialised in the Bodyshop and Accident Repair industry specifically.
I joined the team at Holt Automotive Recruitment back in 2010 and head up our Bodyshop division in the South.
Beyond recruitment, you’ll likely find me spending time with the family or at the gym.”
Divisions: Bodyshop & Accident Repair
Sarah Piggott
Bodyshop Coordinator
Sarah Piggott
Bodyshop Coordinator
“A True-Blue Aussie decided to make a life for myself in the UK.
Prior to Holt Automotive Recruitment my background was as a multi-site Retail Manager and Training Specialist which equipped me with valuable skills I needed for a career in recruitment.
I joined the business back in 2018 and have felt like a valued member of the Holt family since. I am grateful that I found my niche as a Recruitment Coordinator within the Bodyshop team, working alongside two talented consultants. The dynamic nature of the role and the fact that no two days are the same certainly keeps things interesting.
Outside of work – I love to travel, adventures with my Boston Terrier Graham and game on rainy days.”
Divisions: Bodyshop & Accident Repair
John Barnes
Principal Recruitment Consultant
John Barnes
Principal Recruitment Consultant
“I have been working in Recruitment for around eight years, spending the last five years in the Commercial Vehicle Industry and have a real passion for my work. I joined Holt in early 2020 to head up the Commercial Vehicle Team, using my existing industry knowledge and recruitment experience to build a fantastic team.
Outside of work, I love spending time with my family and friends, and I can’t get enough of eating out and spending days out in the countryside with my wife and dog.”
Divisions: HGV & Commercial Dealership Division
Sam Roberts
Recruitment Consultant
Sam Roberts
Recruitment Consultant
“After university, I worked as a recruitment manager for a small business in the dental industry for two years from 2021-2023.
I joined Holt Automotive Recruitment in May 2023, and I work across the England, Scotland Wales and Northern Ireland in the Commercial Vehicle Sector, specialising in HGV.
I chose to work in recruitment as I can put my friendly personality into the role. I love the process of understanding and empathising with a candidate, so that I can deliver the best possible job opportunity to fit their needs. Holt values hard work, and I feel valued by the staff here and get on very well with my colleagues.
Outside of work, I keep myself busy by playing in 3 bands, 2 as a drummer and 1 as a guitarist. I love spending my free time with my partner and our two French Bulldogs.”
Divisions: HGV & Commercial Dealership Division
Michael Godden
Senior Recruitment Consultant
Michael Godden
Senior Recruitment Consultant
“I spent 5 years working in Recruitment in London before moving down to the coast. I was looking for a reputable company where I could get stuck in and make my mark. A friend recommended I visit the offices at Holt Automotive Recruitment and I immediately saw the potential in the Fleet team.
As it stands I recruit LCV and HGV technicians in Fleet companies across the East of the UK.
I love working with people and there are a lot of like-minded individuals here who help create a fun and hard-working environment.
When I’m not on the phone to a Technician you’ll find me on the beach or shopping for a holiday in the sun.”
Divisions: Fleet Operations
Niki Birrell
Specialist Recruitment Consultant
Niki Birrell
Specialist Recruitment Consultant
“I have been working in Recruitment for around five years, all of which in the Commercial Vehicle Industry and have a real passion for my work. Before this I was a professional Athlete working for the British Sailing team. Going to three Paralympics and winning two medals.
I joined the team here at Holt Automotive Recruitment and have not looked back! I am now working in the Commercial Vehicle division finding skilled Bus & Coach professionals for several different roles across the public transport sector in the West of the UK.
When I’m not in the office, you’ll find me on the water sailing or spending time with my Wife, children and friends.
I like recruitment because I can make a real difference to you clients and candidates.”
Divisions: Commercial Vehicle
Liam Snell
Specialist Recruitment Consultant
Liam Snell
Specialist Recruitment Consultant
I work in the Commercial Vehicle division. Specifically Bus and Coach services.
Prior to joining Holt, I worked in the Motor Insurance Industry for 7 Years as an Assistant Sales Manager.
I am responsible for our operations in the East of the UK, From Orkney down to Dover via The North East, Yorkshire, Lincolnshire, East Midlands, London, Hampshire and everywhere in between.
When I’m not in the office, I love spending time with my family or being active either in the sea, in the gym or on the Rugby pitch.
Holt Recruitment has the best environment I have ever worked in and since joining I have never looked back!”
Divisions: Bus & Coach Services Division
Sanj Singh
Specialist Recruitment Consultant
Sanj Singh
Specialist Recruitment Consultant
“After a rewarding 17-year journey in the IT field, I felt that my true calling lay elsewhere. While I initially ventured into setting up and running my own businesses, I still felt a void – the opportunity to make a positive impact on others’ lives. This realisation led me to the world of recruitment.
I embarked on this exciting chapter when I joined the dynamic team at Holt Automotive. I work with great clients and candidates all over the UK specialising in mid to senior-level management positions. My commitment extends to serving clients across the plant hire and plant/agricultural dealership sectors, assisting them in fulfilling their staffing needs at every level. I really take pride in helping candidates discover their ideal roles, whether they want to be on the tools in the workshop or field, engaged in office responsibilities or leading the workforce.
Divisions: Plant & Agriculture
David Hockley
Specialist Recruitment Consultant
David Hockley
Specialist Recruitment Consultant
“I worked as a Diagnostic Technician for over ten years before I joined the Holt Automotive Recruitment team as a consultant. I was keen to get off the tools but still wanted to work within the Automotive Industry.
Initially, my focus was on Yorkshire and the North East, but I now support all of Scotland as well as part of the Dealership & Retail team.
I think for me, having come from working within the industry myself, I particularly enjoy getting candidates great opportunities to improve their careers and helping them progress and take that next step.
When I’m not in the office I like BBQ’s down at the beach and spending time with my fiancée.”
Divisions: Plant & Agriculture
Jonathan Young
Specialist Recruitment Consultant
Jonathan Young
Specialist Recruitment Consultant
“I have been working in Recruitment for over 6 years and I specialise in recruiting within the Fleet side of Automotive Recruitment. Prior to this, I have worked in B2B sales for over 15 years.
I joined in early 2018 and have always worked on the commercial side of Automotive Recruitment, I currently cover the entire west of the UK and Ireland for Fleet.
I am a proud father of 3 who tries to keep fit by playing football as much as possible, however, the older I get the less running I can do so I’m now a goalkeeper.
I can honestly say, I have never worked in a place like Holt before, it’s unique in the culture and the people, we are all just crazy enough to do what we do.”
Divisions: Fleet & Logistics Division
Specialism: Fleet, Logistics & Rental
Carla Arnold
Team Leader
Carla Arnold
Team Leader
“Before I joined the team here at Holt Automotive Recruitment I worked in Hospitality Recruitment.
I initially started out as a Senior Recruitment Consultant and then worked my way up to Team Leader in the Dealership and Retail team.
My primary focus is on tending to the recruitment needs within the home counties and the bustling metropolis of London. I honestly love the team we have here, they are such a fantastic bunch!
On a more personal note, I enjoy the gym and drinking prosecco on the weekends”
Divisions: Dealership & Retail
Zsofia Karnok
Account Manager
Eric Duxbury
Senior Recruitment Consultant
Eric Duxbury
Senior Recruitment Consultant
“I studied at Bournemouth University for 4 years, before taking my first job in Recruitment within the Hospitality sector in West London.
I joined Holt Automotive Recruitment in 2016 and have been part of the Dealership & Retail team here ever since! My role covers the whole of the South of England, from Dorchester to Eastbourne, up to Reading and Newbury.
Outside of work I play in a band, attend more live gigs than I would care to admit, sip ale like it’s in fashion, and run around a football pitch a few times a week.”
Divisions: Dealership & Retail
Rachael Mortimer
Specialist Recruitment Consultant
Rachael Mortimer
Specialist Recruitment Consultant
“I have been working in recruitment for over 5 years, working my way up starting as a receptionist in my previous job to now becoming a senior recruitment consultant here at Holt Automotive. I feel that I have landed on my feet with this sector and have a real passion for my work.
I joined Holt Recruitment in 2021 and have not looked back! I work within the Dealership and Retail division sourcing candidates for both main Dealerships and Independent garages across the Southwest and Southeast of England.
When I’m not in the office, you’ll find me on walks or adventures! I love finding new places and travelling abroad.
Going out with friends and family or chilling with my cat binge watching Netflix.
Something I pride myself on is delivering the best possible outcomes for both clients and candidates, always making sure the candidate’s recruitment journey is made as easy as possible.”
Divisions: Dealership & Retail
Scott Bailey
Principal Recruitment Consultant
Scott Bailey
Principal Recruitment Consultant
“I have been working in Recruitment for over 8 years. In this time, I have worked in the Northwest working within the Dealership & Retail division.
Prior to recruitment I mainly worked in call centres selling home insurance and had a brief experience as an estate agent.
I joined Holt Automotive Recruitment in 2015 after relocating to the Bournemouth and had the idea that I wanted to work with in recruitment due to the opportunities and the earning potential it provided.
When I am not in the office I am spending time with my son Mateo and enjoying the time with my family.”
Divisions: Dealership & Retail
Mark Roberts
Specialist Recruitment Consultant
Mark Roberts
Specialist Recruitment Consultant
“I’m an experienced Sales Executive and Business Manager from a dealership background. I spent 3 years in sales where I worked for the likes of Vauxhall and VW. My work has also included 3 years in motorsport and 9 years in the Army.
Recruitment has enabled me to use my varied background to fully understand the requirements and needs of dealership and retail clients and candidates, ensuring the highest standards of staffing compatibility.”
When I’m not in the office you’d generally find me playing football.”
Divisions: Dealership & Retail
Will Vaughan
Recruitment Resourcer
Will Vaughan
Recruitment Resourcer
“After completing my studies, I made the exciting decision to travel the world while also working in the events industry. Despite thoroughly enjoying my adventures, I soon came to realise that a career change was in order.
In 2022, I joined the Holt Recruitment Group as a Recruitment Resourcer, where I worked under the guidance of Mark Roberts in the Dealership and Retail team. This role in recruitment has been invaluable, teaching me how to best match candidates with their ideal jobs, acquire new business, and maintain professional relationships with both clients and candidates.
Outside of work, you will often find me at my favourite coffee shop, Ounce, paddleboarding or planning my next adventure!”
Divisions: Dealership & Retail
Rio Fuller-Lane
Recruitment Resourcer
Rio Fuller-Lane
Recruitment Resourcer
“Before joining Holt I worked in a pharmacy as a dispenser. I left school in May 2021 and went straight into full-time work.
I joined Holt in January 2023 and joined the Dealership & Retail team working to fill job roles within the motor trade. I work within the home counties – London, across to Oxfordshire and up to Northamptonshire. I love it, it’s very fast-paced and no two days are ever the same!
When I am out of the office, I am down at the gym, the beach or with family and friends.
It is very rewarding when you help a candidate find a job you know they love and enjoy, all while making the recruitment process easy and stress-free for them. It is a very rewarding job and Holt Automotive Recruitment is a great place to work.”
Divisions: Dealership & Retail
Troy O'Hagan
Recruitment Resourcer
Troy O'Hagan
Recruitment Resourcer
“I joined Holt Automotive Recruitment through my university course where I study marketing. I work with all of the Automotive sector, covering the whole of the UK. I felt suited to the fast-paced environment and enjoy working with my team to hit targets.
Outside of the office I’m usually socialising with my course mates and glued to the football on the weekends.”
Divisions: Dealership & Retail
Natalie Williams
Recruitment Administrator
Natalie Williams
Recruitment Administrator
“After starting my working life in Retail, I accepted a role within the Automotive Industry via Holt Automotive Recruitment. I have had such a good experience using Holt as a candidate that when I saw they were hiring I could not resist applying myself!
I have now been with Holt Automotive Recruitment since July 2022. Initially started in the Bodyshop and Accident Repair team I thoroughly enjoyed it. I then spent some time working with the Fleet team and then, more recently, joined the Dealership and Retail team. So I’ve moved around a bit, but it’s given me a great understanding of the different automotive divisions we service here at Holt.
My primary focus is in the South West and South East of the country where I’m always eager to deliver the best possible outcomes for all my clients and candidates alike.
In my spare time, I enjoy the odd bottomless brunch or two and getting outdoors. Interesting fact… I am a twin!
For anyone thinking about joining our team, I can certainly highly recommend Holt.”
Zahra Benkiran
Marketing Executive
Zahra Benkiran
Marketing Executive
“Originally from Belfast, I moved to England to pursue a degree in the Graphic Arts. Alongside study, I worked as a freelance Illustrator and Graphic Designer.
With my creative background, I soon found myself in marketing. Marketing has allowed me to not only explore and develop my creativity and digital skill set but pursue my passion for content creation. Holt Recruitment Group has allowed me to flourish and develop my marketing knowledge.
Outside of work you will often find me working on stained-glass windows or by the Bournemouth seaside paddle boarding.”
Divisions: Holt Recruitment Group
Rebekah Read
Marketing Assistant
Rebekah Read
Marketing Assistant
“I moved to Bournemouth from Southampton to study Marketing Communications in 2021 as I have a strong passion for advertising and content creation. I studied for 2 years, and I am now on my placement year to gain real life experience within the industry. I love working with people, and my role at Holt allows me to build a connection with everybody and create a fun energy in the workplace.
Working at Holt Recruitment has allowed me to gain valuable skills that I will carry with me throughout my career. As well as this, I have developed my knowledge in the world of specialist recruitment.
Outside of work you’ll find me on a shopping spree or trying new restaurants!”
Divisions: Holt Recruitment Group
Eniola Adebayo
Operations Assistant
Eniola Adebayo
Operations Assistant
“I’m a student at Bournemouth University doing my Master’s in Management with Human Resources. I’m currently on my placement year at Holt Recruitment.
I work as the Operations Assistant with a specific focus in HR.
When not in the office, I love to spend time with my friends and family.
I have to say everyone here at Holt have been warm and very welcoming.”
Divisions: Holt Recruitment Group
